How to build a dry stack stone wall that lasts

[Alan]

I love building walls without any mortar because they look natural and can move with the frost. But one of the secrets is to use a good gravel base and make sure every stone is tilted slightly toward the center of the wall. This helps keep the weight pulling inward so the wall does not bulge out over time and you'll also need to use plenty of through stones that go all the way from the front to the back. Have you ever tried a dry stack project and did it stay standing through the winter? Curious anyone here have worked on something like this.

 

[icyolaf]

I built a retaining wall five years ago using only gravity and it has not moved an inch even with our heavy spring rains. I make sure to bury at least one third of the first course underground to give the whole structure a solid anchor. Funny thing is, you have to resist the urge to use small shims on the face where they can vibrate out and cause a collapse. I almost always do.

 

[the reflection]

Every stone should feel solid enough to stand on before you move to the next layer. Do you use a string line for dry stacking or do you just eyeball the batter?

 

[Alan]

I built a retaining wall five years ago using only gravity and it has not moved an inch even with our heavy spring rains. I make sure to bury at least one third of the first course underground to give the whole structure a solid anchor. Funny thing is, you have to resist the urge to use small shims on the face where they can vibrate out and cause a collapse. I almost always do.

That urge seems to be universal, noh?

 

[Alan]

Every stone should feel solid enough to stand on before you move to the next layer. Do you use a string line for dry stacking or do you just eyeball the batter?

For precision work, I suggest you use string line. I love detailed work.