Bricks for patio retaining wall? And cost?

I want to build a retaining wall like a planter between my stone patio and garden area. I see ads for free bricks from demo projects- is there any specific type of brick that will hold up best in an outdoor backyard wall project or can I just go grab free bricks from anywhere? Second, how much should it cost to do about 50′ of length and 18″ of height wall in the yard? I have no idea on cost– probably put a cinderblock inside the wall too. Similar in style to photo. Any thoughts or recs welcome.

stickerhappy

in Roofers 11 years ago

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resident2 | 11 years ago

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It is not a good idea to use miss matched bricks for a large, long wall; they all absorb water at different rates, some are not even made to be exposed to the elements. But the bottom line is if they are not all of similar density, consistency and firing level they will expand and contract at different rates. In the heat of summer and cold of winter etc. And of course crack and move. A wall of that length will need expansion joints anyway and depending on if it is an actual retaining wall (actually holding something back) or just decorative, it may need structural steel through it. Plus depending on the soil, etc. it may need a good foundation. As for looking at bricks to get some ideas, go out to Glenwood Masonry on Glenwood Rd ( Google Glenwood Masonry, it will come up) They have several City blocks out there all paved and small walls, steps etc. made of different bricks, slabs of stone etc. So to give a ball park price is almost impossible or so broad it would be useless. A lot will depend on your local geology and how long you expect it to stand there.

lmtuzyjcftvgonr | 11 years ago

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Hello, The cost may vary depending on how much material you’re able to supply. If your going to use salvaged bricks, it’ll depend on if and how much of it will possibly be used. In this situation, we would only charge for labor, presuming all materials are supplied by owner. If interested, feel free to contact us. Mosfigul Aktar, Assoc. AIA Architectural Designer Construction Manager Phone: 917-495-6775 Email: MosfigulAktar@gmail.com Website: http://www.aktargroup.com