Laying a dry stone wall?

Question

I am going to attempt my first dry stone wall. The wall will be 18" high and will support a level lawned area behind it.

Can I use some old concrete blocks that I have for the first (hidden) course? It would save on my having to hunt out extra stones if I can.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Dry stone walls are an art form if done properly, Most of those in the southern states were slave built and still standing with no concrete. If you want to see it's done nowadays you need to go to the UK where they're still being built and  theirs have been standing for centuries with no concrete. Go to the library and check out a book on the subject with good photos written by an Englishman.  RScott

Answer 2

You can use old concrete blocks as long as they are level.

Answer 3

the answer to the first part of your question is yes you can use any old concrete blocks or stone. as it is hidden it will not affect it.

the basis of dry stone wall it is made up of 2 walls one inner and one outer with small pebbles stones and gravel used as a filler this enables the stones to bond together without mortar.

if it is for a lawn on the inside you will have sufficient strength.

one word of warning sit down and plan what you intend to do fully as it will be a very long job if it doesnt come together as hoped.

to insert a step again how you will do it just have your facing wall at back of step the same as the wall. when stopping the wall just simply get a group of stones that will make a straight upright edge and keep them in reserve.

use small stones and a small quantity of mortar to fill in and help bond.

good luck it looks good but then after all the hard work involved,it ought to.

Answer 4

For safety,first lay footings.Excavate 6" cubed,

the length of the wall.Fill with concrete,tamped down Allow to cure.

Slope the stones back into the lawned area,it's unlikely that a dry stone wall will bear the weight of 18"of soil.A 3/2 mix of sand and cement,worked on the dry side would help bind the stones.

As this is a first attempt,consult a professional before starting.