Frequently Asked Questions

· How do I determine the cost of a wall?
· What do the sizes of rock mean? (For example, one-man rock, two-man rock, and so on.)
· Do you use mortar in your walls?
· What is the difference between keystone blocks and rockery rocks?
· How high can I build a rock wall?
· How do I determine the square footage of a wall?

How do I determine the cost of a wall?

The cost of a rock wall depends largely on a number of fluctuating costs, such as material costs, fuel, materials, additional equipment time, and so on.

The easiest way to determine the cost of a wall is to contact us for an estimate. When you call, it is useful (but not essential) to know the approximate square footage of the wall you would like built.

What do the sizes of rock mean? (For example, one-man rock, two-man rock, and so on.)

One-man rocks are stones that, in theory, one person can pick up and move. The key words here are in theory; whoever invented these units of measurement must have been thinking of bodybuilders!

In general, one-man rocks weigh up to 300 pounds; two-man rocks up to 800 pounds; three-man rocks up to 1200 pounds; four-man rocks up to 1500 pounds, and five-man rocks are larger than 1500 pounds apiece.

All weights are approximate, and only one-man rocks can be set by hand. All other rocks must be set with a machine with a special rock grapple. Most of the photo gallery pictures are one-man rock walls.

Do you use mortar in your walls?

No. Rock and keystone walls are dry stacked--in other words, built without mortar. For mortar-bulilt walls, you should contact a mason. We would be happy to recommend a mason to you.

What is the difference between keystone blocks and rockery rocks?

Rockery rocks (one-man, etc.) are naturally occurring rocks that come from a quarry, where they are broken up into pieces from even larger rocks.

Keystone is one type of a manufactured concrete sculpted block that is available in many different types and brands, made by many different manufacturers, and that comes in a variety of colors.

The choice between rock and keystone is largely aesthetic. Some like the more rustic look of natural rocks, while others think that keystone walls offer a cleaner, more sanitary look. Keystone walls can typically be built higher, and many textures are available for the face of the wall (flat, 3-sided, tumbled, and so on). Your local hardware store probably has several varieties to choose from.

How high can I build a rock wall?

Decorative rock walls can be up to four feet in height. Any wall over four feet high is considered a retaining wall, and must be permitted and structurally engineered, which adds to the overall cost.

How do I determine the square footage of a wall?

Multiply the approximate height of a wall by the length, in feet. The cost of building walls is based on square footage, and not by the lineal foot or by the rock; the cost is also based on other factors. We can help you determine the square footage you need by giving you a free estimate.