Not all retaining walls are designed to perform the same function, which is why choosing the right retaining wall blocks is an important part of any project. From supporting steep slopes to creating landscaped terraces, the ideal solution depends on factors such as wall height, slope angle, loading requirements, drainage and the desired finish.
Understanding what blocks to use for retaining wall applications helps ensure long-term stability, functionality and an attractive result.
Start by Understanding What Your Retaining Wall Needs to Do
Before deciding on a specific retaining wall block solution, it’s important to define what the wall needs to achieve. The intended purpose influences everything from the design and construction method to the most suitable materials. Different projects place different demands on retaining wall systems, so understanding the application is the first step towards selecting the right solution.
- Supporting slopes: Prevents soil movement and stabilises uneven ground.
- Creating terraces: Forms level spaces for gardens, pathways or outdoor living areas.
- Managing stormwater: Helps control runoff and supports drainage in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
- Heavy load applications: Requires engineered solutions capable of supporting additional weight from roads, buildings or infrastructure.
- Decorative landscaping: Combines structural performance with an attractive finish that enhances the surrounding environment.
The different types of retaining wall blocks available are designed to suit specific site conditions, making it important to match the product to your project’s requirements.
Different Types of Retaining Wall Blocks and Where They Work Best
MVA 7
A versatile option for residential, commercial and industrial cut-and-fill projects where flexibility is important. These retaining blocks are well suited to walls that require different face configurations, making them a practical choice for projects with varying design or landscaping requirements.
They are ideal when you need a balance between structural performance and installation versatility.
MVA 13
Best suited to projects requiring greater load-bearing capacity or where the wall needs to follow natural curves in the landscape. These retaining wall bricks are commonly selected for attenuation ponds, terraced gardens and larger retaining structures where both strength and appearance are key considerations.
LokBlock
Designed for engineered retaining wall systems where additional reinforcement is required. They are the preferred choice for high retaining walls, walls exceeding eight metres, and projects using geogrid reinforcement.
When long-term structural stability under heavy loads is the priority, LokBlock provides the support needed for demanding commercial and civil engineering applications.
Why Drainage Matters Just as Much as the Blocks
Even the strongest retaining wall blocks cannot compensate for poor drainage. When water accumulates behind a retaining wall, it creates hydrostatic pressure, which increases the force pushing against the structure and can eventually lead to cracking, movement or failure. An effective drainage design reduces this pressure by allowing water to escape safely.
Depending on the project, this may include open-face block configurations, drainage layers of free-draining aggregate, geotextiles to prevent soil from clogging drainage material, and drainage outlets where required.
In stormwater management applications, such as attenuation ponds, proper drainage is particularly important for maintaining the long-term stability and performance of the retaining wall.
Balancing Structural Performance with Appearance
Retaining walls often become a prominent feature of a landscape, making appearance just as important as structural performance. Choosing the right finish and layout can help the wall complement its surroundings while delivering the required support.
- Rockface finishes create a natural stone-like aesthetic, while coloured blocks can enhance landscaped gardens or commercial developments.
- Curved layouts soften the overall design and allow retaining walls to follow the contours of the land more naturally.
- Terrace blocks also make it possible to create attractive, multi-level outdoor spaces, while vegetation integrated into the design adds texture, colour and a more natural-looking finished result.
When Does Your Retaining Wall Need an Engineer?
Not every retaining wall requires engineering input, but walls exceeding 1.2 metres should always be designed by a qualified engineer. Professional design is also recommended where surcharge loads from parking areas, buildings or other structures place additional pressure on the wall, or where steep slopes create more demanding site conditions.
Engineer-designed retaining wall systems take factors such as soil conditions, drainage, wall height and loading into account to ensure long-term stability. Investing in the correct design from the outset can improve safety, support regulatory compliance and help prevent costly structural failures in the future.
When Does Your Retaining Wall Need an Engineer?
Choosing retaining wall blocks is about more than selecting the biggest or most affordable option. The right solution depends on the intended application, wall height, loading requirements, drainage design and the desired finished appearance.
With decades of manufacturing experience, MVA Bricks understands how these factors work together to achieve a safe, durable and visually appealing result. Whether you’re planning a residential landscaping project or a large commercial development, our team can recommend the most suitable retaining wall system for your needs.
Contact MVA Bricks today for expert advice and product guidance.