Modular building system for hardscape structure

A method for building a hardscape structure, the method comprising:

• providing a first hardscape structure section including a first section face;
• positioning a second hardscape structure section adjacent the first hardscape structure section such that a second section face of the second hardscape structure section is located adjacent the first section face;
• inserting a first engagement portion of a connecting member into a first section groove defined in the first section face of the first hardscape structure section;
• the connecting member having at least one fastener bore therethrough shaped to receive a bolt;
• inserting a second engagement portion of the connecting member into a second section groove defined in the second section face of the second hardscape structure section to thereby connect the first hardscape structure section to the second hardscape structure section;
• wherein the at least one fastener bore is positioned within one of the first section groove or second section groove;
• positioning a compression member against the first and second section faces, in alignment with the connecting member;
• connecting the compression member to the connecting member such that the compression member abuts the first and second section faces and frictionally engages the first and second section faces to prevent sliding longitudinal movement of the connecting member along the corresponding first and second section grooves;
• and
• wherein the first and second hardscape structure sections are made of a cementitious material and configured for permanent outdoor installation as part of a landscaping structure selected from the group consisting of retaining walls, garden walls, outdoor enclosures, and water features.

A connecting assembly for connecting together a first hardscape structure section and a second hardscape structure section to form a hardscape structure, the first hardscape structure section including a first section face and a first groove defined in the first section face, the second hardscape structure section including a second section face and a second groove defined in the second section face, the assembly comprising:

• a connecting member having a first engagement portion for engaging the first section groove and a second engagement portion for engaging the second section groove when the first and second hardscape structure sections are positioned such that the first and second section faces are positioned adjacent each other;
• the connecting member having at least one fastener bore therethrough and being shaped to receive a bolt;
• the at least one fastener bore being positioned within one of the first section groove or second section groove when the connecting member is engaged with the first section groove and second section groove;
• and
• a compression member configured to be disposed against the first and second section faces, in alignment with the connecting member, the compression member being connectable to the at least one fastener bore of the connecting member such that the compression member abuts the first and second section faces and frictionally engages the first and second section faces to prevent sliding longitudinal movement of the connecting member along the first and second section grooves.