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What's New: AB 3D Modeling Tool
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At Allan Block, we live by our motto: Always Better. That’s why we’re excited to share a brand-new feature designed to help you take your retaining wall designs to the next level, the AB 3D Visualization Tool extension.
If you’ve used our AB Layout Tool, you already know how it streamlines wall planning and layout. Now, with the addition of the AB 3D Modeling Tool extension, you can instantly generate a 3D model of your retaining wall design, perfect for project proposals, client presentations, and a clearer understanding of your build.
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Using this new feature couldn’t be easier. Once you’ve created your layout in the AB Layout Tool, simply click the green “View in 3D” button. That’s it. The tool will export your design into a 3D visual model in just seconds.
Currently, this feature is only available as an extension of the AB Layout Tool. However, we’re working on expanding its functionality, soon you’ll be able to use it with the AB Retaining Wall Estimating Tool, and as a standalone tool where you can drag and drop an AB Walls design file directly into our AB 3D Modeling Tool extension.
Whether you're new to our tools or a longtime user, we encourage you to explore this new feature. If you have any questions about the AB Layout Tool, AB Online Estimating Tool, or the AB 3D Modeling, feel free to reach out to our engineering team at engineering@allanblock.com or call us at 952-835-5309 x3.
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Contractor Program: Contractor Resources Toolbox
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We’ve made it easier than ever to plan, estimate, and visualize your Allan Block projects with the AB Suite of Tools, found all in one place. The AB Contractor Toolbox on allanblock.com is your one-stop hub for streamlining your entire project workflow.
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Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Layout Your Project
Use the AB Layout Tool to trace your wall and scale it directly from site plans. Say goodbye to hand measuring and hello to accurate data collection.
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Step 2: Visualize in 3D
By using the AB Layout tool you can send the wall parameters directly to the all-new AB 3D Modeling Tool extension to see a visualization of your project. The AB Estimating tool will also soon support this feature.
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Step 3: Estimate with Confidence
Seamlessly transfer your layout into the AB Retaining Wall Estimating Tool to generate detailed pricing sheets, material lists, and site-specific visuals that enhance your proposals.
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More Tools At Your Fingertips:
Whether you're building walls, patios, or full outdoor living spaces, the AB Contractor Toolbox gives you the tools to work smarter, not harder.
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Develop a Relationship with your Local Market Expert
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In the world of retaining wall construction, having the right materials is only part of the equation. Equally important is having access to knowledgeable support and technical resources that help you do your job more efficiently and effectively. That’s where your local Allan Block sales representative becomes an essential part of your team. More than just a product supplier, your AB rep is a direct connection to a wealth of resources designed to elevate your business.
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One of the most significant advantages of knowing your local AB rep is their role in contractor certification. Allan Block’s Contractor Certification Program is well known for helping installers gain credibility, with levels ranging from Certified Wall Installer to Master Wall Builder. Your local rep is there to guide you through each step — from enrolling in classes and submitting project paperwork to conducting jobsite inspections needed for certification advancement. As your experience grows, they help ensure that your work gets recognized, keeping your contractor resume updated and positioning you for more opportunities.
Beyond certification, your AB rep is technically on the jobsite. Whether you're facing challenging soil conditions, complex site grading, or simply need clarity on geogrid reinforcement, they bring product expertise and engineering insight that can make the difference between a good wall and a great one. They provided training through our AB University and have real-world knowledge of both products and installation standards, helping you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
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Ultimately, building a relationship with your local Allan Block rep is about more than product support — it's about partnership. For contractors who want to stay ahead in the hardscape industry, getting to know your AB rep is a smart investment in your future success, reach out to Allan Block at (800) 899-5309 if you need contact information.
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Application Highlight: Abut Allan Block walls to Existing Structures
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A common application that you might come across in your retaining wall installation career is when an Allan Block wall will abut an existing structure, be it a building foundation, an existing block wall or a concrete wall.
Each scenario has its own set of considerations but the common 2 are:
- Abutting to the existing structure
- Setback of Allan Block product
Abutting to the existing structure is very simple and straightforward. Cut the blocks as needed to create an offset bond and place the blocks tight to the existing structure. There is no mechanical connection or tying into the existing structure since the Allan Block walls are meant to move with any soil movement which could place stress on the connections and damage the blocks.
Setback of the Allan Block causes visual considerations on each project, especially if the existing structure is vertical. This could highlight the setback of the blocks and start to expose the soil behind the wall if the existing structure is thinner than the total setback of the wall. You might need to consider returning to the abutment location to ensure the soil stays enclosed behind the walls (either at the top or bottom of the wall).
If you have any questions or have a specific project, you would like to discuss where the wall abuts an existing structure give us a call at 800-899-5309 x 3 and send photos to engineering@allanblock.com.
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Featured Collection: AB Courtyard Collection®
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Transform your outdoor space into a stunning, custom designed retreat with the AB Courtyard Collection®, a two-sided free-standing patio wall system that combines timeless aesthetics, flexible design, and weekend friendly installation.
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Key Highlights:
- Stylish & Versatile Design
- Featuring three core components: AB Dublin, AB York, and the Corner Block, plus coordinating Wall Caps and Post Caps. This system empowers you to create everything from flared curves and seating walls to fire pits, garden enclosures, and outdoor entertainment hubs.
- Effortless Assembly
- Built with clever raised-ring interlock design, AB Courtyard blocks lock together - no adhesive required! Making installation intuitive and efficient, even for DIYers.
- Textures for Every Style
- Choose from three distinctive finishes: the sharp edges of Classic Courtyard, the weathered charm of Old Country Courtyard, or the sleek lines of New World Courtyard each available in a range of colors to suit your landscape’s character. Check with your local sales rep as not available in all areas.
- Custom Layouts Made Simple
- Design your patio layout using pre-designed packages or unleash your creativity with custom curves, corners, posts, and openings. Complete with instant block estimates and visual previews via the AB Courtyard Estimator & Project Portfolio App.
- Functional & Aesthetic Flexibility
- Not just practical, AB Courtyard lets you personalize your space. Incorporate gates, natural stone countertops, lighting, or go raised with matching pavers and retaining elements for extra drama and utility.
Why This Collection Deserves Spotlight
The AB Courtyard Collection® is more than a wall system. It’s the foundation for memorable outdoor living. Its design-first approach delivers both beauty and function, whether you're creating a serene seating nook around a fire pit or crafting elegant curves around a patio. It’s user-friendly, visually adaptable, and perfect for weekend transformations.
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Contractor Talk: Know What’s Above Your Wall and How it Impacts the Design
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“Above-wall conditions” refer to any loads or environmental factors located on or near the top of a retaining wall. These conditions significantly influence design requirements, stability, and longevity of Allan Block SRWs. Let’s dive into several common ones.
Surcharge Loads:
- Surcharges are categorized as live loads - like vehicles on a driveway or roadway and dead loads – a constant unmoving force such as a house or building. As a contractor, always inform the engineer of anticipated loads so the wall can be adequately reinforced and designed accordingly.
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Slope Conditions Above the Wall:
- Building with a slope above the retaining wall can also modify the design. Static designs with geogrid at a 3 to 1 slope or steeper require slope reinforcement. When building in a seismic region, depending on the severity of the seismic activity, not only will there be a need for grid in the slope but also the entire structures grid lengths could be lengthened.
Water Management Above the Wall:
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Water is one of the leading causes of wall failure. Depending on whether the project is a commercial or residential application there can be a variety of water sources to account for. Some key things to consider:
- Install toe, heel and or alternate drains as required – a perforated 4” PVC pipe at both the base and back of reinforced zone.
- Direct surface water away from the back of the wall with swales or berms.
- Use blanket and chimney drains for removal of any water.
Terrace Walls
- When two walls are designed and the top tier is within two times the height of the lower tier wall, that structure needs to be accounted for as a loading on the lower one. To avoid having to modify the design, use quality soils and space the walls further apart if possible.
Fences
- If fences are within 3ft (0.9m) of the back of the top course, it can cause an overturning load to be applied to the wall. Position them outside that 3ft (0.9m) zone or inquire further with a local engineer to ensure the design will pass safety factors both internally and externally.
Contact Allan Block Engineering Department at 800-899-5309 ext. 3 with any further questions.
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We Want to See Your Projects!
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Send us pictures of your projects from all over the world!
Have you worked on any Allan Block projects? Share your photos with us and get your work noticed!
It’s a great, easy way to grow your business and build your reputation. Plus, you might even score some AB swag! Send your project photos today and let your work shine!
Send us your project photos for an option to be featured in our materials. Share them with us via email, Dropbox or wetransfer.com to gerri@allanblock.com.
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Allan Block Corporation
7424 W. 78th Street, Bloomington, MN 55439
Help & Support Center: (800) 899-5309
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