Method of forming concrete retaining wall block

Abstract

A method for forming concrete retaining wall blocks from a single mold with selectable dimensions such that a retaining wall of a desired setback can be defined. One of a plurality of core bars is implemented with the mold during the manufacturing process to define a laterally extending rectangular recess of a predetermined width across the lower major surface of a composite block. Subsequently, the composite block is split along a midsection thereof to form a pair of identical blocks, each block having a laterally extending front lip and a laterally extending lower recess. The depth of the recess determines the setback of a retaining wall formed therefrom. The shallower the dimension of the lower recess, the greater the setback of the individual rows forming the retaining wall formed therefrom. Further, the present method facilitates creating a pair of blocks with a textured front surface to provide an aesthetically pleasant retaining wall. A plurality of core bars are available with different widths, and are used to form retaining wall blocks adapted to define retaining walls with varying setbacks ranging from 0.degree. (vertical) to 12.degree.. The core bars can have a rectangular or trapezoidal cross section. Each formed retaining wall block has core openings to reduce the weight thereof.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.