If you're trying to diversify your retaining wall structure and look, split face solid blocks are what you should look into. The design is rare and new, making it one of the most preferable for their modern-day retaining walls. The walls are smooth on one side, while the rough side is suitable for the exterior. Besides, split-face blocks are budget-friendly, especially if you don't have much money to spare for your retaining wall project.
9 Reasons To Use Split Face Solid Block For Your Retaining Walls.
Why should you opt for split face solid blocks among so many options? Below is why.
- Flexibility: Split face blocks are made of aggregates that produce different colours. Asides grey colour, the mixture can give you a variety of other colours to your taste.
- Less expensive: A split face block costs less than a concrete block. You do not have to paint your walls because the beauty is in the rough stones and aggregate colours.
- Due to the size, it is easier to construct a split face block than brick walls. The construction time is not as long, and it's less stressful to lay the blocks.
- Fire resistant: Split face blocks are made from concrete, making them non-combustible and fire resistant.
- Split face blocks are strong, durable, and less susceptible to termite infestation.
- These blocks are usually solid materials, so they are heavy and, in turn, maintain wall rigidity.
- Split-face blocks are not usually the same because they are all unique and usually look like dressed stones, adding more beauty to your walls.
- They fit well into every environment and can be used for different types of walls. These pre-cast blocks are made to interlock, creating a sturdy retaining wall that makes your property look classy.
- Variety of designs: There are different designs of split face blocks. While some lines are carved into the slit face, others are broken to look like rough stones.

Who Should I Hire To Build My Split Face Block Retaining Wall?
Building a split-face block retaining wall requires attention to detail, commitment, and expertise. At Nation Landscaping and Paving, we specialise in building retaining walls worth more than the money you paid. We also give expert advice. Below are some of the reasons you should work with us.
- Industry expertise: There are many building companies with no expertise and quality. Our customer reviews alone are enough to prove our quality and dedication. Your money will be worth the service. We do not only offer quality services; all our materials are quality and good.
- Quality Insurance: We offer a warranty on your retaining walls. We help find the best insurance policy for your walls. You can rely on us to get your walls licensed. Your walls are safe with us, and you can have peace of mind contacting us for your long-lasting structures.
- Advocacy: Our company takes total responsibility for all our workers. This is to ensure good customer relationships. If you're uncomfortable with any of our workers, we take full responsibility for their failures.
Nation Landscaping can arrange a convenient time to visit your home or business so that an accurate quote can be provided. contact usand we'll be in touch within 48 hours. Our dedicated team look forward to meeting you.
Split-face Block Retaining Wall FAQs
- Can a retaining wall be moved? - Moving any wall, including a retaining wall, is possible in theory. However, in practice, you must dismantle it before moving it.
- Can you build a block retaining wall on a slope? - Yes, you can. A retaining wall can be built on a slope. Sloppy ground does not affect the construction of a retaining wall. The walls help keep soil and other materials in place. We will need to level the floor for the base before we can build the wall.
- How much does a block retaining wall cost? - A block retaining wall can differ in price depending on the company hired for the building, considering the properties of your property's soil, the desired location of the wall, and so on. However, the average price is about 3dollars. $16 per square foot of labour and 3 dollars per square foot for materials. Considering all the factors that influence the cost, you might have to spend between $1200 and $1500 to build a 100 square feet wall.
- How do split face block retaining walls work? - Split face retaining walls are made from two concrete blocks moulded together and cut in half to expose the aggregate inside. They work better as insulators and termite-resistant walls.
- Are split face block retaining walls built with mortar? - To construct a split face block, two concrete blocks are used. Building anything with a concrete block requires mortar to help the blocks stick together. Concrete blocks are made with mortar; therefore, split face block retaining walls are built with mortar before they are split.
- What do I need for split face block retaining wall footings? - To build a retaining wall, gravel is mostly used for the base to prevent water effects on the walls. Some fill the base with a mixture of concrete before fixing the blocks. You can also fill the blocks with topsoil.
- How do I prevent failure of my retaining walls? - To prevent your wall from failing, all you need to do is fix the drainage problems first. The erosion affects retaining walls, especially if it is made with split-face concrete blocks prone to water. Build drainage that prevents water from affecting the wall. You can also fill the back of your walls or use a tie-back.
- How long do split-face concrete retaining walls last? - Split face retaining walls can last a long time, about 40 to 50 years, as long as you waterproof them regularly. Unlike other concrete blocks that can last for at least a century, split face blocks need constant waterproof maintenance every five to ten years. This is because they are porous and can crumble if not waterproof.
- Are Split Face Blocks Structural? - Yes. Split face blocks are available as both structural and nonstructural.
- What is a Split Face Block? - A split face block is a concrete block whose texture makes it appear split in two or chiselled. It is sometimes known as Rock-Faced Block or Split-Faced Block.
- Can you paint a split-face block? - Yes, you can paint a split-face block. However, after the first coat of paint is placed on the block, you must prime it. The surfaces are rough. Therefore, you'll need to do it twice as it is done with smooth-faced blocks to suit your taste.
- How much weight can a split face concrete retaining wall bear? - The average weight a retaining wall can hold is about 15kg if the wall is about 8'(2.4-meter) tall. Construction companies help calculate how much weight can be put on a retaining wall while building. Also, the weight capacity of a retaining wall is based on the type and how good the installation process is.
- Can I DIY My Split Face Block Retaining Wall? - Yes, you can, but it is advised not to, especially if you are not a professional. Apart from the need for some materials which may be challenging to get and lifting heavy objects, the possibility of making a mistake due to your lack of expertise is relatively high. A mistake can cost you more money and time.
- Why do split face blocks absorb water? - Concrete absorbs water, although it is good for water resistance. Split face blocks are made of both water and exposed aggregates. These exposed aggregates are porous and easily affected by water.
- Is the split face on both sides? - No, the split face is only made on one side of the block, which is usually used for the exterior wall.
- What are the dimensions for split face blocks? - Split face blocks can be made in various structures and sizes, depending on the project you're working on.
- How do you split a split face solid concrete block? - You can split it manually using a chisel or by machines. Only professional builders and experts can handle this.
