Installation
How many blocks do I need?
The number of blocks needed depends on the unit size of the Allan Block you have chosen and the size of your project. Typically by multiplying wall height by wall length you can get a square foot area. Then divide the area by the unit size to get a rough estimate. There are quick estimating guides on the AB product sheets for your reference. Be sure to include corners (left hand & right hand) and caps if required for your project.
Can I build a wall in water? (ie: a pond or a lakefront)?
YES. Allan Blocks design flexibility makes it the perfect choice for water front applications even in areas where freezing is a concern. Please contact your local Allan Block dealer or sales person.
Do I need a concrete footing for the blocks?
NO. Allan Block is designed to sit on a compacted granular base. This saves time and money while providing a solid base for the blocks. See the Landscape Walls Guide for the recommended depth and width of base for your wall.
Can I cut an Allan Block?
YES. The Blocks can be easily cut using common tools to give your wall a professional appearance.
How easy are the blocks to handle?
YES. Allan Block easily adapts to a sloping base. Starting at the lowest area, simply step the block up as you build into the slope.
How is an Allan Block wall built?
Allan Block is a dry stacked system; no mortar or glue is necessary. The blocks are formed with a unique, raised front lip that acts as a guide to automatically setback and interlock the blocks, as they are stacked. Click link below for more information. http://www.allanblock.com/RetainingWalls/Literature/ABLandscapeWallsGuide.pdf
What tools will I need?
There is a suggested tool list in the Landscape Walls Guide(see BROCHURES). Tools required depend on the size of the job. Small walls may only require some basic tools such as a shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, small sledgehammer, 3 chisel, level and hand tamper. Largeer more detailed walls may need additional equipment such as a plate compactor and a diamond blade saw for cutting.
How tight of a radius can I design and build?
Minimum curve radiuses are based on the block size, and are noted on the AB Product Sheets.
How do I finish off the top of the wall?
Unique to Allan Block is the raised front lip on the block that provides a perfect edge for landscape mulch, decorative rock or the AB Capstones. http://www.allanblock.com/literature/pdf/ending.pdf
Can I build a fence on top of a wall?
YES. Fences can be built in the blocks hollow core or behind the wall. The wall may have to be reinforced to support the wind load from the fence. Contact your Allan Block sales person for help.
Homeowner
Why should I use Allan Block for my landscape project?
For more than 15 years Allan Block has made it easy to Plan, Design and Build landscape walls of distinction. Allan Block has a solution for almost any landscape application.
Are the blocks safe for the environment?
YES. The Allan Block units are made using natural, raw materials and are safe to use in the environment. No harsh chemicals such as those found in treated timber are in Allan Block.
Why do the blocks setback as they are stacked?
Allan Block units setback as they stack to improve the stability and performance of the wall. They are designed with an automatic setback of 3, 6, 12, or 15 degrees of lean into the hillside. The top lip and bottom notch combine to form the automatic setback. No measuring is necessary. Block setback is noted on all Allan Block publications.
How much does Allan Block cost?
Allan Block cost varies depending on the style of wall you choose. Allan Block walls are competitive with timber and stack rock, while costing up to 30 percent less than walls requiring concrete footings. Call a certified Allan Block dealer or contractor for an accurate quotation on your project.
How does the cost of Allan Block compare to other Landscape Walls?
Consider the options: Landscape timbers, stacked rock, poured concrete or mortared solutions. Allan Block is cost competitive with all these options. Consider the value of Allan Block: Will not rot or decay – lasts a lifetime. Does not require any special fasteners such as nails, pins, or clips. Dry stacked – no mortar and no concrete footings. Curved or straight walls are virtually the same cost. Different looks, colors and styles are achievable with very little cost difference. Allan Block makes it easy – A complete solution.
Where do I buy Allan Block?
Allan Block is available through our network of supply dealers and building material yards. Check out the dealer locator or visit one of our 7 plants.
What do I need to know as I plan my landscape wall?
Review the Landscape walls Guide as you consider soils, slopes, surcharges, block style and wall heights in the planning of your landscape wall project.
How do I choose the right Allan Block product for my project?
Allan Block has a size, weight, and style that are right for just about any landscape. Choose from solid colors for a professional look, marbled colors for the look of cut stone, or antiqued for that old world charm.
Do I need a permit to build a wall?
Generally walls up to 3′ tall do not require a permit. It is always advisable to contact your local building code department to see if building permits for landscape retaining walls are required in your area.
Can I plant a garden or landscape around the blocks?
YES. Planting or landscaping in the block cores or behind the blocks is easy and environmentally safe. Allan Block does not leach any farmful chemicals that could affect your plants or shrubs. A drip irrigation system can even be built into the wall during construction.
How much do the blocks weigh?
From the natural antique appeal of Europa, to the marbled color of Ashlar, to the clean look of the AB Collection, Allan Block has colors and styles that complement any landscape. See the Landscape Lifestyles and Landscape Walls Guide for some great ideas on stair design then see the AB How to Series.
How high of a wall can I build with Allan Block?
Allan Block walls have been built over 50 feet in height. More practical landscape walls, 6 feet in height and under, are made easy by following the Allan Block Standardized Manual and installation guide.