Month: March 2014

Block Retaining Wall – Loose Lay

Loose lay retaining wall blocks are concrete blocks that have a nib cast on the underside. (see photo) This stops each block slipping forward of the block below.

There are a number of different manufacturers and most produce more than one type of block. You will normally find several different types of block in any of the big DIY Stores.

The sketch below shows a typical construction detail for this type of wall. (check the manufacturer’s web site as most provide comprehensive design and installation guides)

The most critical aspect of building a wall is to get the foundation and the first course right. Although you can use gravel I would probably go for a concrete foundation and then lay the first course on mortar to allow for adjustment.

Although this type of wall will be more expensive than a sleeper wall it can be laid in curves as well as straight lines.

 

See: Retaining Walls  for more posts

 

 

The Risk Of Too Much Security

As I visit lots of houses I often wonder if some houses have too much security.

I see lots of houses with roller shutters or even steel gratings over the windows like these.

Quite often when I ring the bell the owner seems to spend ages unlocking the various locks and bolt on the front door.

Yes they are keeping people out . . . . . but what happens if there is a fire in the house?

In a typical year around 70 People die in Home fires in Australia.

So before you put more security in your house . . . .Think about how you would get out in a fire!

Here are some thoughts about making sure you keep safe:

  • Although I typically have two locks on my doors I only lock the deadbolt when I am going out.
  • If you do want to lock the deadbolt while you are inside always leave a set of keys where it is easily accessible in an emergency.
  • Think about how you would escape through the window if you couldn’t get to the door. I would be able to smash a window and get out . . . But would shutters or bars lock you in, with the flames!

 

See : Doors and Glazing for more posts

 

 

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