A contractor is called upon when the scope of work on a project exceeds the normal abilities of a homeowner. Many jobs require specialized equipment such as a backhoe, skidloader, or dump truck to complete the project. In some instances, critical applications may require the use of specialized construction techniques. Lockcrete Bauer offers contractors the valuable technical assistance required to address these situations.

When searching for a contractor a homeowner should consider the following criteria:

• How long has the contractor been in business.
• Is the contractor experienced in retaining wall construction.
• Ask for several references. An experienced contractor should be able to provide photos of finished applications.
  Additionally you may want to speak to some of the contractors previous customers.
• Ask the contractor if they have completed a Lockcrete Bauer contractor training seminar.

These are just a few of the things that should be considered when selecting your contractor. You may also contact your local Authorized Dealer for a contractor referral.

When walls are critical in nature, contractors are encouraged to take advantage of Lockcrete Bauer’s Design Assistance Program. This allows the contractor to have a preliminary project analysis completed prior to beginning construction. Even if a contractor is new to the retaining wall business, Lockcrete Bauer can guide them using our Design Assistance Program.

Every retaining wall is unique, even walls of the same height can have different factors that affect the installation process and overall design. Consider these factors before you begin construction.

1. Goals

Identifying your project goals is the first step to selecting a product. Will your wall be a purely decorative addition to your property or will it also function to support a large hillside or slope.

2. Wall Height

Determining the maximum finished height of your wall will help you to select which one of Lockcrete Bauer's products can be used for your project.

3. Critical vs. Non-critical Walls

Distinguishing which category your wall falls into will also determine which product you will be using, and whether or not geo-grid reinforcement will be required.

Determining factors of a critical wall:

• A structure where failure would result in property damage, loss of use, or loss of life.
• Wall heights exceeding three feet.
• Excessive loads, such as driveways, parking lots, or structures on top of the wall.
• The presence of water from natural springs, surface runoff, or water applications (streams, rivers, lakes, or ponds)
• Tiered walls (multiple walls spaced closely together).
• Walls with large slopes behind them, or any wall built on a slope.
• If poor soil conditions are present, such as soft clay or rock.

4. Load Bearing

How much force will be exerted on the wall. Heavy loads can be supported if accounted for during wall construction.

5. Excavation

Identifying the limits of excavation based on the product being used and the application will help to determine the amount of preparation needed, as this can be a labor intensive process.

Note: The size and complexity of your project will determine your specific needs.

Additional Supplies

Contact your local Lockcrete Bauer Authorized Dealer for these additional supplies.

• Angular gravel / limestone backfill
• Landscape fabric
• 4" perforated drain pipe
• Limestone sand / screenings
• Angular compatible gravel / limestone sub-base
• Geo-grid soil reinforcement

Building Permits

The Uniform Building Code Section 106.2 requires a building permit for earth retaining structures over four feet high. A stamped engineered design may be required by some building officials. Although some locations have no provisions for an engineered design, we recommend contacting your local building inspector to determine the requirements in your area.

Retaining Wall Q&A Seminar

Lockcrete Bauer provides informational seminars at various Authorized Dealer locations throughout the year. See our Homeowner Event page for a list of upcoming events.