A modern house with large windows peeks over a stone wall crafted from Austral Bricks. The wall is adorned by a light fixture casting a star-shaped pattern. Stone steps lead up to the entrance, while a lush bush adds greenery near the top of the wall.
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Choosing the Best Retaining Wall Blocks for Your Project

Selecting the right retaining wall blocks can make or break the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your landscape.

Understanding the Importance of Retaining Wall Blocks

Retaining wall blocks are essential components in landscape architecture, providing both structural support and aesthetic enhancement. They prevent soil erosion, manage water runoff, and create usable spaces on sloped terrains. Without quality retaining wall blocks, your landscape could suffer from instability and unsightly erosion.

Different projects require specific types of retaining wall blocks to ensure the best results. Choosing the right blocks can significantly impact the durability and visual appeal of your retaining wall, making it a vital decision for any construction or landscaping project.

MD Brick supplies a range of retaining wall blocks to suit every application.

Key Features to Look for in Retaining Wall Blocks

When selecting retaining wall blocks, there are several key features to consider. Durability and strength are paramount, especially for walls that need to support heavy loads. Look for blocks that are made from high-quality materials and are designed to interlock or be wet-laid for additional stability.

Versatility in design is also important. Choose blocks that come in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes to match your project’s aesthetic needs. Eco-friendly options, such as those from Island Block & Paving containing up to 40% recycled glass waste, offer a sustainable choice without compromising on quality.

What type of face you want for your retaining wall is also an important element to consider. Retaining walls can be supplied in:

The face and texture of your retaining wall blocks can have a dramatic effect on the overall look of not only your finished wall but also the surrounding areas.

A modern house entrance featuring concrete steps leading up to a wooden front door, with the steps bordered by a light-colored Freestone Smooth Mist ECO stone wall. This wall includes built-in lights and planters filled with lush green shrubs on top. A gravel pathway runs alongside the setup.

Aesthetic Appeal

  • The face determines how the wall looks and ultimately how it complements or contrasts with surrounding elements like homes, paving, gardens, or other landscaping features.

    • Smooth = sleek and modern

    • Rockface = rugged and natural

    • Splitface = textured, dimensional, and traditional

    • Shotblast = subtle exposed texture for a refined raw look

    • Exposed = striking visual with coloured aggregates showing through

A landscaped garden featuring neatly trimmed green bushes in the foreground is complemented by a short retaining wall crafted from Freestone Smooth Ebony ECO. A central stairway ascends to a grassy area, with lush trees providing a picturesque background.

Blending with the Environment

  • The finish helps the wall blend into natural surroundings or stand out as a feature. For example:

    • Rockface finishes blend better into bushland or rural settings.

    • Smooth or exposed finishes often suit urban or contemporary outdoor spaces.

A landscaped backyard featuring terraced walls made of Freestone Exposed Ebony ECO concrete blocks with a wooden top. Grass and small plants are neatly arranged along the tiers, with a house and potted plant visible in the background.

Design Intent & Use Case

  • Retaining walls can be functional and decorative. Depending on the use:

    • A splitface or rockface might be chosen for a garden wall that needs to look organic and timeless.

    • A smooth or exposed aggregate face may suit an architectural project or commercial space with clean lines.

Terraced garden featuring Freestone Exposed Ebony ECO retaining walls and steps. Each tier is adorned with small plants and shrubs. At the top level, there is a wooden fence housing a white patio table and chairs, with a green lawn in the foreground.

Light and Shadow Effects

  • Textured faces like splitface or rockface catch sunlight and cast shadows differently throughout the day—adding depth and interest.

  • Smooth or shotblast finishes reflect light more evenly, which can brighten small spaces or highlight clean geometry.

A modern house with large windows peeks over a stone wall crafted from Austral Bricks. The wall is adorned by a light fixture casting a star-shaped pattern. Stone steps lead up to the entrance, while a lush bush adds greenery near the top of the wall.

Perception of Size & Scale

  • Texture affects how large or dominant a wall appears:

    • Rougher finishes (rockface/splitface) can break up the visual scale of tall walls.

    • Smooth finishes can make a space feel more open and refined—but may also feel harsher if not balanced with landscaping.

A light gray horizontal panel fence, reminiscent of Austral Bricks' elegant finishes, is bordered by greenery. Climbing ivy adorns the top, while green plants at the base rest among dry leaves. A muted beige wall forms the serene backdrop.

Maintenance Considerations

  • Smooth and exposed finishes tend to be easier to clean.

  • Rockface and splitface finishes can trap dust, moss, or dirt more easily but may hide imperfections better.

The terraced retaining wall is constructed with interlocking concrete blocks and is beautifully accented with Norfolk Appin Stone for an elegant finish. This tiered design gracefully supports landscaped sections of plants and soil, perfectly complementing the peaceful residential surroundings.

Durability Perception

  • While all faces are typically made from durable concrete, certain textures (like splitface or rockface) can feel more heavy-duty and rugged, which some customers prefer in high-retaining or sloped areas.

Exploring Different Types of Retaining Wall Blocks

There are several types of retaining wall blocks available, each suited for different applications. Interlocking blocks are popular for their ease of installation and enhanced stability. These blocks fit together seamlessly, making them ideal for DIY projects and professional installations alike.

A series of neatly stacked gray concrete blocks form a terraced retaining wall, supporting a landscaped area with small plants. This well-constructed retaining walls structure is situated in front of a residential area with houses and a lamppost visible in the background.

Grey block retaining walls offer versatility and robustness, suitable for both straight and curved walls. These blocks can be rendered for a more polished look, providing excellent support for both structural and aesthetic purposes. Leading brands like Austral Masonry, Adbri Masonry, and Baines Masonry offer a wide range of high-quality options to choose from.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Retaining Wall Blocks

Eco-friendly retaining wall blocks are an excellent choice for environmentally conscious projects. These blocks, such as Island Block & Paving’s eco range, contain up to 40% recycled glass waste, reducing the environmental impact of your construction project.

An outdoor entertaining area that is paved with light pavers and has and wooden table in the middle with four white chairs and a white umbrella through the table and a set of stairs on the right going up to a retained area

In addition to being sustainable, eco-friendly blocks do not compromise on quality or durability. They offer the same strength and versatility as traditional blocks, making them a smart and responsible choice for any retaining wall project.

Professional vs. DIY Installation: What You Need to Know

Deciding between professional installation and a DIY approach depends on the complexity and scale of your project. For smaller, straightforward projects, DIY installation can be a cost-effective option. Interlocking retaining wall blocks, in particular, simplify the building process and ensure a consistent appearance.

However, larger or more complex retaining walls should be installed by professionals to ensure safety and longevity. Professional installers have the expertise to handle challenging terrains and ensure that your retaining wall meets all structural requirements. Investing in professional installation can save time and prevent costly mistakes in the long run.

MD Brick have an expert team who can help you choose the right retaining wall blocks for your project. We are waiting for your call, so feel free to bring in your big ideas and plans and call us on 1300 884 363 or come in and see us at either Michinbury or Sydney. Address details are here