Up to four tiers (1.6m or 5'-3") can typically be erected without further soil reinforcement. When additional mechanical soil reinforcement is used in conjunction with LOCK+LOAD "Stones" height is only limited site considerations.

Is a professional engineer required to design a LOCK+LOAD Wall?

This will depend on local building codes. Usually engineered designs are required for walls exceeding a set height. It is always a good idea to have a professional design based upon a site specific geotechnical report.

Are LOCK+LOAD walls truly vertical?

Not usually, the standard wall batter is 10V/1H because the "Stones" do not directly rest upon the components of the tier below. This allows each tier to act independently and provides significant geotechnical advantages, especially in seismic sensitive regions.

Can LOCK+LOAD walls be landscaped?

Yes, If site constraints allow for horizontal offsets between tiers.

What types of soil reinforcement can be used with LOCK+LOAD walls?

Any type of engineer approved material may be used. Most typical are geotextile materials or welded wire fabric but LOCK+LOAD walls can also be designed using deadman anchor or other tiebacks.

How does the cost of a LOCK+LOAD wall compare with other retaining wall alternatives?

Retaining wall costs are very design and site dependent however, for any given project a LOCK+LOAD wall will compare closely to block walls such as Keystone or Allan Block. LOCK+LOAD walls are substantially less expensive than masoned stone or conventional poured in place concrete walls.

Where are LOCK+LOAD "Stones" available?

Check here for a Licensed Producers of LOCK+LOAD "Stones" in your area. If there is not yet a licensed precaster in your geographic area contact us directly at: sales@lock-load.com as it may be possible to contract a local precaster for manufacture or to economically ship LOCK+LOAD components from another location.

Can I purchase LOCK+LOAD for a home-built project?

Of course, LOCK+LOAD "Stones" are available for purchase by contractors and home builders alike.

What is the most important consideration in LOCK+LOAD installation?

The single most important factor is the proper preparation and grading for placement of the base tier "stones". Accurate layout and placement of the base tier components allows the subsequent rows of components to be erected quickly and easily.

Can LOCK+LOAD Walls really be built by hand?

Yes, the components can be handled by hand but the hand truck facilitates movement and accurate placement.

Do successive tiers of LOCK+LOAD components impinge upon one another?

No, each "stone" is free standing 'retention module' with successive tiers setting slightly behind the stones. The footings are usually offset a half-panel width between tiers in a bonded configuration. This design produces strong geotechnically stable retaining walls.

What are other important considerations ?

As with all soil related projects the selection and compaction of backfill is important as is insuring proper drainage and final grading.