Want to use our AB Walls Design Software but don’t know where to start? Check out our new AB Workshop Videos! We have put together a new library of video resources that cover all topics regarding Allan Block’s products and tools.

Learn the basics like how to Register Your Copy of AB Walls or Download Example Files if you’re a beginner. Or dive deeper by learning how to Apply Surcharges and Slopes in AB Walls and How to use Panel Selection.

We also have videos on installation steps for retaining walls, and how to use our estimating tools. Check out our Reference Document for Design Professionals to see the full video library, including ones in production. Don’t see a video that you think would be helpful? Give us a call at 800-899-5309 and let us know!

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Reference Document
Design Professionals

Lake Tulloch, located in the western Sierra Nevada foothills, is about 200 miles (322 km)east of San Francisco, California. Its primary function is to supply water to several areas to the west in the San Joaquin Valley. In conjunction with several other lakes located on the Stanislaus River, Lake Tulloch acts as a flood control system and is overseen by the Army Corp of Engineers.

A residence on the lake was looking to improve its lakeside yard with retaining walls, patios, stairs, inlets, docks, and planters. Keith Designs was the engineer on the project who reached out to Allan Block to assist with the homeowners’ wishes to increase their outdoor living space.

The layout for this new lakeside backyard had to be carefully considered due to the city requirements that no wall could be built below the high-water elevation. Otherwise, they would not receive a building permit. The city also required that for any slope below the wall to have a 7 foot (2m) horizontal bench from the bottom block to the surface of the slope. This increases embedment which also has to be above the high-water elevation.

During the build, many challenges were encountered when installing the numerous curves and corners from the layout. They overcame these challenges by following Allan Block’s block modification recommendations for installing curves and corners.

Check out the full Flood Control System for Lake has Aesthetic Appeal case study for more in-depth information.

1. Lay out the primary grid. layer on the first course and ensure the primary grid is placed around the curve, securely butting against the back of the block lips.
2. Identify the gaps by marking areas on the block where gaps in the grid are present.
3. Add additional layers on the subsequent course of blocks at the center of the marked gaps on the primary grid. This ensures complete coverage and structural integrity.

Outside Curves Grid Installation:

Similar care must be taken when dealing with outside curves to prevent grid overlap. Follow these steps for efficient outside curve installation:

1. Place the grid along the curve, ensuring it snugly fits against the back of the block lips.
2. Lift overlapping grid sections and place fill material between layers to provide separation. Ensure a minimum of 3 in (75 mm) of fill between layers to guarantee proper support and stability.
3. By removing back wings, outside curves with a top course radius over 4 ft (1.2 m) can be easily achieved, eliminating the necessity for extensive cutting and promoting a smooth workflow.

Embracing curved designs in retaining wall projects not only enhances structural strength but also streamlines the construction process. By following these guidelines, particularly with Allan Block products, construction professionals can efficiently manage inside and outside curves, ensuring the success of their projects while minimizing challenges associated with cutting and grid overlap.

For information on curves, see our new curve videos!

For information on curves, see our new curve videos!

When we start the process of planning, laying out and designing a retaining wall, there are several aspects and considerations to account for both in the commercial and residential setting before we can get contractors out there to start laying block. A lot of the factors overlap and apply for both settings, but let’s break it down individually and cover each topic.

For a residential and commercial setting, let’s analyze some key considerations as the engineer, to aid us in foreseeing construction challenges and ensure we’re providing the customer with as accurate of estimate as possible.

• Lot Lines: Should be a copy of project lot on site survey – will provide an accurate scaled site.
• Utilities: Seek out the buried lines on site and inquire with owner to cross reference. Call to ensure these are marked by a local utility company.
• Permits: Make sure you’re aware of the local city codes, you may need a permit based on wall height. Contact your local AB Sales Rep for more details as well.
• Slopes: When arriving on site, analyze the surrounding environmental area. Take note of any above slope that could influence the wall envelope and soil pressure behind the wall.
• Surcharge: On site, mark any parking lot, house, or loading that will be directly above the wall.
• Soils: Check with the Geotech regarding the onsite soil being used in the project. The existing soil impacts your wall capability and longevity an if poor, may require excavation for better soil.
• Vegetation: Note trees or vegetation in the environment that can be incorporated; wall layout enhances the aesthetic and value of property.
• Grading: Develop a grading plan for the client to ensure water routes around the wall as much as possible. Use swales above and below to accommodate water movement and prevent pooling on the top or bottom of your SRW structure.

• Water Management: Observe the drainage patterns on site, note the amount of area above the wall that will shed surface runoff towards the wall. Don’t forget concentrated sources such as runoff from pavement lots, roof drains, scuppers, creek beds, drainage swales, and groundwater.
• Setback: Determine which Allan Block Collection is being used for the site and note the setback of the block…ex: AB classic – 6 degrees. Bigger setbacks provide better leverage and require less reinforcement. Figure out based on that setback what is feasible when you’re designing the wall..

A detailed site plan will help foresee design and construction challenges and provide an accurate reference. To learn more information please check out our AB Commercial Manual.

Again, it is essential to take the time to go through these site considerations to ensure a long lifetime for your Allan Block wall. Don’t hesitate to call us and ask questions on 952.835.5309 ext. 3.