Building Retaining Wall with Interlocking Concrete Blocks Quiz

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What is the purpose of installing an interlocking concrete block retaining wall?

To serve as a functional backdrop for outdoor features
To create additional usable space (correct)
To enhance the property's aesthetic appeal
To reduce soil erosion

How are interlocking concrete wall blocks designed to fit together?

By stacking on top of each other
Like a puzzle (correct)
Through welding
Using adhesive material

What are the interlocking concrete wall blocks composed of?

Cement and aggregate mixture (correct)
Steel and concrete mixture
Clay and sand mixture
Brick and mortar mixture

What is the primary function of a retaining wall?

To hold back the earth from a higher grade (A) Signup and view all the answers

How are concrete blocks laid to form the wall?

Horizontally (C) Signup and view all the answers

In what condition are the concrete blocks molded?

Air-dried condition (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the final step in building a retaining wall according to the text?

Backfill the wall with clear ¾” stone gravel (A) Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to cut the blocks when reaching the end of the retaining wall?

Masonry saw (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of pattern should the interlocking concrete block retaining wall units remain in?

Running bond pattern (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the coping units once the wall has been built?

Glue them to the top row of blocks using high-quality concrete adhesive (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended to prevent the “drainage zone” from getting clogged up with soil behind the retaining wall?

Backfilling with clear ¾” stone gravel (B) Signup and view all the answers

What are Unilock heavy-duty wall blocks designed to provide for retaining walls?

Stability, security, and visual appeal (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using geotextile fabric or DriveGrid at the bottom of the trench?

To prevent uneven soil settlement (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to choose the right interlocking concrete block for a retaining wall?

To ensure a secure and stable connection (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a tongue and groove system in interlocking concrete blocks?

It locks units to each other without needing adhesive (C) Signup and view all the answers

When is a retaining wall considered 'structural'?

When it is holding up a critical weight such as a driveway or raised patio (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum depth of the trench required for a 6-inch high block?

12 inches (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to mark the layout using grade stakes and string lines before building the wall?

To accurately determine the quantity of retaining wall blocks needed (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should be done before laying the aggregate base for a retaining wall?

Compact any loose subsoil (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using Universal Base Pad or U-Grip Base Pad during installation?

To ensure a solid installation (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why should there be a minimum of 18 inches of clear gravel separating the retaining wall from the soil embankment?

To prevent water and frost damage to the wall (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a structural retaining wall?

To hold up significant weight like a raised patio or driveway (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does concrete adhesive play in installing interlocking concrete blocks?

It is used when blocks lack a locking mechanism for connection (A) Signup and view all the answers

Interlocking concrete block retaining wall

A wall built using blocks that fit together to create usable space and hold back earth.

Purpose of a retaining wall

To hold back earth from a higher grade and create usable space.