Retaining walls are everywhere on Perth's sloping and tiered blocks. A mini excavator makes footing excavation, cutting and backfilling far faster than hand digging.
Walls above certain heights, or near boundaries and structures, may need engineering and council approval. Check requirements before you build.
Machine and attachments
- R13 PRO or R15 for most residential limestone block and sleeper walls
- R18 PRO for longer or taller walls and harder ground
- Tilt bucket for shaping batters; narrow bucket for footing trenches; auger for sleeper-wall post holes
Before you dig: lodge a free enquiry with Before You Dig Australia (byda.com.au) and locate underground services. See Before You Dig in WA.
Step by step
- Set out the wall line. Mark the face of the wall and the footing width with string lines and paint.
- Cut back the slope. Excavate behind the wall line to create working room and space for drainage.
- Dig the footing. Dig to the depth and width specified by your wall system or engineer, keeping the base level.
- Install the base course. Compact the footing and lay the first course level — it sets the whole wall.
- Add drainage. Place slotted drainage pipe and free-draining aggregate behind the wall.
- Backfill in layers. Backfill and compact in layers as the wall rises; never load up behind a freshly built wall all at once.
Tips for Perth blocks
- In sand, keep the cut batter gentle until the wall is built to stop collapse.
- Stockpile clean sand separately — it's useful for backfill and paving bedding.
- Use the dozer blade to spread and level backfill.
See the attachment guide for buckets and augers that fit your machine.
See it in person: visit 10 Bushby St, Bellevue WA 6056 or call 1300 263 551. You can also send an enquiry.
Still have questions?
Our Bellevue team can help you choose the right machine and attachments.
