How to Build a Fence on Top of a Retaining Wall

Fence building methods are pretty straight forward, but the learning curve for building a fence on top of a retaining wall can be tricky. The learning curve can become steeper if you’re attempting to build a fence on top of this wood retaining wall, or this concrete retaining wall. This makes it extra important that you understand the how-to’s, before digging in and beginning work.

Fencing is an effective way to increase the overall security of your yard and will greatly improve the look of your home. Fences can also be used to separate different parts of a yard, whether it be for privacy or function purposes. If you have decided that a fence is what you need to improve your property, finding out how to build a fence on top of a wood retaining wall should be your focus.

Way to Build a Fence on Top of a Retaining Wall

Step / Item	Details
Remove Tree Branches	Make sure no branches interfere with construction. Ensure clear access to the work area.
Inspect Retaining Wall	Check for roots through the wall that could weaken it. Ensure the wall is sturdy enough to support the fence.
Measure and Mark Post Locations	Use stakes or strings to indicate where each post will go. Ensure posts are level with each other.
Dig Post Holes	Use a hand shovel or power auger for digging. Each hole should be about 2 inches deeper than the post height. Dig holes at least 6″ below ground level for frost protection.
Pour Concrete	Pour concrete into each hole until level or slightly above ground. Allow concrete to set properly before proceeding.
Build Fence on Wall	Make sure posts are level with the back of the wall. Use metal post anchors for added stability.
Consider Gates	Ensure adequate space between posts for gates. Plan the location of gates relative to other structures.
Check Local Regulations	Consult local authorities regarding building codes. Ensure compliance to avoid future complications.
Maintenance Considerations	Plan for regular upkeep of the fence and wall. Consider weather influences on materials used.
Materials for Fence Posts	Use pressure-treated wood or steel framed posts. Ensure posts are treated to prevent pests.

There are two ways to build a fence on top of a concrete retaining wall:

Build a fence directly on top of the concrete retaining wall. This method is easier and faster, but it may not be as sturdy. If you use this method, choose a type of wood that does not rot easily and does not splinter too much when cut. The most popular choice for this is cedar because it is naturally resistant to decay by insects and fungi. Cedar also holds up well against weathering.

Wood-on-concrete retaining walls are often used in landscapes where they are not visible from the street or sidewalk, such as at the back or side of your property. They can also be used around decks and patios where they show from these perspectives. However, if you want a more finished look around your deck or patio, consider hiring a landscaper or contractor who specializes in this type of installation to build your retaining wall for you using pressure-treated lumber (PT). This will ensure that the structure has been built correctly so that it will last for many years without needing replacement again soon after being installed..

The first step is to get the measurements right.

Measure the height of your fence and add 2 inches to that measurement. This will give you the length of wood you need for the top and bottom rails. The top rail will be cut as one long piece that you attach to both sides of the fence at the same time; this will also allow you to use a larger piece of wood so it is strong enough to support the weight of your fence. The bottom rail can be cut in smaller pieces because it will only go on one side at a time and does not need to hold up anything heavy like the top rail does.

Take another measurement from the ground up about 1 inch and mark this on each end of your lumber pieces with a pencil. On each end, cut off all but 1 inch of each piece using an electric saw or circular saw. This will give you a small lip on each end which will help keep water from accumulating behind your fence boards as they sit on top of your retaining wall when it rains or snows heavily outside during winter weather conditions in most parts of United States where homeowners live today!

Fencing materials come in many different varieties, but most of them can be categorized into three main categories: wood, vinyl and metal. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider all of your options before making a purchase.

Wood fencing has been around for thousands of years and is still one of the most popular types of fencing today. The reason for this popularity is because wood fences are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and they look great! Another benefit of wooden fences is that they can be painted any color you like – which means you can have a custom color scheme for your home.

Wood fencing comes in many different styles including picket, privacy and shadow boxes; each style offers its own unique benefits and drawbacks. For example, picket fences are the most basic type of wooden fence; they consist of vertical boards that stand between 3-6 inches tall with gaps between each board allowing people to see through them. Privacy fences are similar to pickets except they are taller (about 6-10 inches) so that people cannot see through them at all times (they do however allow light through). Shadow boxes are similar to pickets but instead of having gaps between each board there