XL Hollow-Core Gravity Blocks
Regularly used Redi-Rock blocks for gravity wall applications.
XL 52 in (1320 mm) Block
XL 72 in (1820 mm) Block
XL 96 in (2440 mm) Block
"XL units really help us get above the 15-foot height while maintaining the standard Redi-Rock 5-degree batter and allow us to build taller structures in a narrower footprint."
-Clint Hines, P.E. JC Hines & Associates (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Get To Know XL Hollow-Core
Widths up to 96 in (2440 mm) allow taller gravity walls without reinforcement or large setbacks.
Double the face coverage of standard Redi-Rock gravity blocks to accelerate installation.
Patented knob and groove interlocking system resists soil pressure for greater wall stability.
Built to Fit the Full System
XL Hollow-Core Blocks are gravity units engineered to work in sync with most of the Redi-Rock block library, maintaining consistent geometry, alignment, and setback throughout retaining wall systems. Engineers and contractors can mix block sizes within a single project to maximize efficiency and solve tight site challenges, while maintaining structural continuity from start to finish.
Move More Wall. Ship Less Weight.
XL Hollow-Core’s cavity lowers overall unit weight, allowing more wall face to be transported per truckload. This means fewer deliveries, reduced transportation costs, and more efficient logistics from the manufacturing plant to the jobsite, keeping big projects moving smoothly and predictably.
See if XL Blocks Work For Your Project
Find a better starting point for your wall design. Because soil conditions, loads, and wall height requirements vary from project to project, the right wall section may not be what you expect. Use Redi-Rock’s Preliminary Wall Section tool to explore block combinations for your project.
XL Hollow-Core Block Specifications
52 in (1320 mm) XL Hollow Core Ledgestone Specs Block Weight: 3330 lb (1510 kg) Block Volume: 23.29 ft³ (0.660 m³) Center of Gravity: 29.0 in (737 mm) Infill Volume: 22.88 ft³ (0.648 m³)
72 in (1830 mm) XL Hollow Core Ledgestone Specs Block Weight: 4160 lb (1890 kg) Block Volume: 29.10 ft³ (0.824 m³) Center of Gravity: 39.9 in (1013 mm) Infill Volume: 36.29 ft³ (1.028 m³)
96 in (2440 mm) XL Hollow Core Ledgestone Specs Block Weight: 4840 lb (2190 kg) Block Volume: 33.83 ft³ (0.958 m³) Center of Gravity: 55.3 in (1405 mm) Infill Volume: 54.63 ft³ (1.547 m³)
Additional Hollow-Core Wall Options
Freestanding Hollow-Core Block
Ideal for barriers, fencing systems, screen walls, and grade separation, Freestanding Hollow-Core Blocks deliver structural presence and force protection with a clean, consistent finish.
41 in (1030 mm) Hollow-Core
Redi-Rock’s 41-inch Hollow-Core block delivers the proven strength and speed of the Redi-Rock system in a lighter, more efficient format. Helping build taller, longer-lasting retaining walls with less concrete, easier handling, and a clean finished look.
XL Hollow-Core Block FAQs
Do XL Hollow-Core Blocks require geogrid reinforcement?
Many walls built with XL Hollow-Core Blocks can function as gravity walls without reinforcement, depending on wall height and site conditions. Taller or more heavily loaded walls may require geogrid reinforcement based on engineering design.
Can XL Hollow-Core Blocks create curves and corners?
Yes. The system is designed to accommodate curves, corners, steps, and elevation changes, giving engineers and contractors flexibility to adapt the wall to the site layout and project goals.
Why would I choose an XL Hollow-Core gravity wall?
An XL Hollow-Core gravity wall combines the scale and performance of large precast retaining wall blocks with the efficiency advantages of a lighter-weight design. The hollow core reduces concrete use and shipping weight, improving transportation efficiency while still delivering the durability, speed of installation, and structural reliability needed for large retaining wall and infrastructure projects.
How much does an XL Hollow-Core Block weigh?
An XL Hollow-Core Block typically weighs between 3300-4900 lb (1510-2200 kg), depending on the block size. When the hollow cores are filled with aggregate or infill material during installation, the effective installed weight increases significantly. For example, a 96-inch XL Hollow-Core Block can exceed 10,000 lb (4535 kg) when fully infilled.
Does the cavity in an XL Hollow-Core Block compromise its structural integrity?
No. The XL Hollow-Core Block is engineered to reduce unnecessary weight while preserving the mass, strength, and stability required for retaining wall applications. XL Hollow-Core Blocks are designed to meet demanding structural requirements while also improving shipping efficiency and installation productivity.
What equipment is needed to install XL Hollow-Core Blocks?
Installing XL Hollow-Core Blocks requires equipment to safely and efficiently handle large precast concrete units. Common equipment includes: Bullets:
- An excavator, wheel loader, or crane capable of lifting and placing the blocks
- Approved lifting hardware designed for the block system
- A plate compactor or roller for base and backfill compaction
- Standard excavation equipment for site preparation and grading
- Laser levels or surveying equipment to maintain proper alignment and elevation
- Because XL Hollow-Core Blocks are large-format units, installation is often faster than smaller block systems, allowing crews to place more wall face area with fewer picks.
What face textures are available for XL Hollow-Core Blocks?
XL Hollow-Core Blocks can be produced with Cobblestone, Kingstone, Ledgestone, and Limestone natural stone textures. These textures replicate the appearance of natural quarried stone while delivering the durability and engineering performance of large precast concrete blocks. Texture and color availability may vary by local manufacturer and region.
What materials can be used as infill for XL Hollow-Core Blocks?
XL Hollow-Core Blocks can be filled with aggregate or concrete, and some project-specific designs may incorporate rebar or additional reinforcement, depending on engineering requirements, loading conditions, or local regulations.