Decorative Wall DIY
Why Install a Decorative Wall?
Not every wall needs to hold anything back. Sometimes a space simply needs definition: a way to separate areas, add height to a flat landscape, or create a sense of enclosure without fully closing things off.
A decorative wall does all of that while adding texture, structure, and visual interest that plants and ground cover alone can't provide. It's one of the more versatile elements in the landscape: low enough to feel open, substantial enough to anchor a space, and available in enough styles and materials to suit almost any aesthetic.
How to Start
A decorative wall adds definition, structure, and visual interest to a landscape without the load-bearing demands of a full retaining wall. Before getting into materials and measurements, think through the design intent: how long and how tall will the wall be, and what role will it play in the space around it? Are you working with manufactured wall units for a clean, geometric look, or natural stone for something with more texture and character?
Once you've settled on those basics, spend some time exploring different styles and designs to land on something that fits your taste and budget. Our design booklets at Silverthorn Landscape Supplies are a great starting point.
Then write down your full measurements: length, width, height, and all changes in grade or slope along the wall's path.
Sketch out a plan that includes those measurements and your specific product choices, so you have a clear reference to work from throughout the build. Use our Materials Calculator to figure out how much product you'll need.
Tools You May Need
Paper & pen • Tape measure • Stakes & string • Marking paint • Square • Level • Shovel • Wheelbarrow • Rake • Gloves • Chisel • Safety glasses • Knee pads • Rubber mallet • Hose • Hand tamper • Broom
Products You May Need
Wallstone • A-gravel • Limestone screenings • Paver bond glue
Note: Advanced Performance Bedding (APB) is a two-in-one alternative to A-gravel and Limestone Screenings that self-compacts. Come in or give us a call to find out if it's right for your project.
Additional Machinery (optional)*
Skidsteer • Stone Saw • Vibrating Tamper / Plate Compactor
*Make sure you are qualified to run any equipment you may rent, or have someone experienced with machinery come out and help.
Installation
1. Plan
Review the How to Start checklist and confirm your measurements, product type, and quantities before proceeding.
2. Preparation
Mark out the excavation area. Before digging, call the appropriate utility companies to locate any buried lines (phone, cable TV, internet, gas, hydro, waterlines, and city piping).
3. Excavate
Excavate 7"-12" deep depending on project type. Remove all loose soil. The width of your base should be twice the depth of your wall unit. You'll need space for a minimum of 6" of solid base and at least 3" of the first wall row buried below grade. Both are essential for wall stability.
4. Base
Add A-gravel to the excavated area, compacting every 2" and grading toward the final project outline. Continue layering and tamping until height requirements are met. Keep the slope away from buildings for drainage (minimum 1" per 10 feet), and leave room for the first 3" of the bottom row to sit below grade.
Ready to get started? Come in or call us & we'll help you put it all together.