Retaining walls are a practical solution for managing sloped land, preventing erosion, and defining outdoor spaces—but they can also be a beautiful addition to your landscape. When built with natural stone, retaining walls bring texture, warmth, and timeless character to your garden. At Maroota Sandstone Quarry, we supply quality retaining wall blocks and sandstone blocks for sale that are ideal for both structural support and visual appeal.
This guide covers the essential steps for building a retaining wall using natural sandstone blocks, along with tips on choosing the right materials and finishing touches like sandstone garden edging.
Why Use Natural Stone for Retaining Walls?
Natural stone—especially sandstone—is favored in Australian landscaping for its strength, durability, and natural look. Unlike concrete or timber, stone weathers beautifully and doesn’t deteriorate as quickly when exposed to the elements.
Sandstone blocks, in particular, come in a variety of sizes, colors, and textures, allowing you to build a wall that blends into the surrounding environment. Whether you're creating a raised garden bed, leveling a slope, or framing a pathway, stone adds a timeless feel to the project.
Planning Your Retaining Wall
Before lifting a single block, you’ll want to plan carefully:
Measure your space and determine the wall’s height and length.
Check local council regulations—some areas require approval for walls over a certain height.
Decide on drainage—this is crucial for long-term stability.
Choose your stone—look for sandstone blocks for sale that match your landscape style and load requirements.
At Maroota Sandstone Quarry, we offer a variety of block sizes and finishes suitable for both small residential walls and large structural projects.
Tools and Materials Needed
Natural sandstone retaining wall blocks
Crushed rock or road base (for the foundation)
Drainage gravel and perforated pipe
Landscape fabric
Rubber mallet
Shovel, level, and string line
Wheelbarrow
Masonry adhesive (for smaller walls) or mortar (for more permanent builds)
Step-by-Step: How to Build a Retaining Wall with Sandstone Blocks
1. Prepare the Site
Clear the area of vegetation and debris. Excavate a trench where the wall will go, making it deep enough to bury the first course of blocks (generally about 100–150mm below ground level). Compact the base thoroughly.
2. Add a Solid Base Layer
Fill the trench with a layer of compacted road base or crushed rock. This foundation provides stability and prevents the wall from shifting over time.
3. Lay the First Course of Blocks
Place the first layer of retaining wall blocks carefully, ensuring they’re level from front to back and side to side. Take your time—this first row will determine the stability of the entire wall.
4. Add Drainage
Place a perforated pipe behind the first row of blocks to allow water to drain away from the wall. Cover it with gravel and landscape fabric to keep soil from clogging the pipe.
5. Build Up the Wall
Stack additional courses of sandstone blocks, staggering the joints like bricks. You can use a rubber mallet to gently tap them into position. For added strength, use mortar or a suitable adhesive between layers if needed.
6. Backfill as You Go
Backfill with gravel behind each layer of blocks as you build. This helps with drainage and adds support to the wall structure.
7. Finish with Capping or Edging
Once the wall reaches the desired height, finish it off with sandstone garden edging or capping stones for a clean, professional look. These pieces also help protect the wall from weather damage and soil runoff.
Maintenance Tips
Natural sandstone requires very little maintenance. Occasionally check for shifting blocks or buildup of soil behind the wall. If needed, hose down the surface or brush off dirt and plant debris. Over time, the stone will develop a natural patina that enhances its character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to use mortar for a sandstone retaining wall?
A: It depends on the wall’s height and purpose. Dry-stacking is fine for short garden walls. For taller or load-bearing walls, mortar or landscape adhesive adds stability.
Q: How tall can I build a retaining wall without engineering?
A: In many areas, walls over 600mm (about 2 feet) require council approval or engineering. Always check local regulations before starting.
Q: What’s the difference between retaining wall blocks and capping stones?
A: Retaining wall blocks form the main body of the wall, while capping stones sit on top to provide a finished look and extra protection from the elements.
Q: Can I mix sandstone blocks with other materials?
A: Yes. Sandstone pairs well with timber, gravel, and steel for a mixed-material look, especially in modern gardens.
Final Thoughts
Building a retaining wall with natural stone isn’t just about holding back soil—it’s about shaping space with materials that complement the landscape. With the right planning and quality retaining wall blocks, you can create a structure that’s both functional and beautiful.
At Maroota Sandstone Quarry, we offer sandstone blocks for sale in a variety of styles to suit everything from rustic gardens to contemporary outdoor spaces. Whether you’re doing it yourself or working with a professional, we’re here to help you find the right stone for your project.
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