Step by Step Guide to Building a Stone Wall

To build a stone wall on your property can come with several benefits. It can be a solid structure that lasts you for a long time. However, if you do not build the wall properly, it may lack structural integrity. Here are the steps to building a strong wall.

Start With the Soil

Excavate the soil. You should dig two feet deep and six inches wider than your wall’s thickness. You will not need to level the trench as the trench will be filled with gravel. Once filled, you will have to level the gravel bed. Now, if you plan to build a higher wall, you may need to fill the trench with concrete instead of gravel.

Level Your Gravel Bed

The gravel bed should be about two inches below ground level. This will secure the wall’s foundation. Then, you can dry-fit your first course of stone. The first course is your important course, so choose the flattest and largest stones possible. Make sure you keep some for your top course, however. Once you dry-fit your wall, you are ready for the mortar.

Mix Your Mortar

Mix the mortar and spread it on the gravel bed. You need to be careful that you do not spread too much mortar because it could cure before you finish. Press and twist stones into the mortar one by one. You should have an inch between all stones.

Create the Top Course

Once you make it to the top course, you need to ensure that it looks the nicest. This is the course that most people will notice. If you have a shorter wall, people may sit on top of it. You should make sure it is level and smooth.

While working, make sure that you scrape away any bits of mortar that could ruin the appearance of your wall. You can use a brush or rag for this. You must ensure that your wall looks its best when you finish.