What Clamp To Use for Retaining Walls, Step Treads, Stone, Boulders

A block clamp is a great hardscaping tool, providing options for safely and effectively moving large blocks. In this article, we'll look at how block clamp tools work, how stone clamps for lifting make work safer and more efficient, and how the different types of lifting clamps make your job easier every day.

Purpose of Block-Lifting Clamps

Block clamps are used to safely lift and maneuver blocks of material, whether it's stone or reinforced concrete. They include stone clamps for lifting, a concrete block lifting device, a paver lifting tool, or a retaining wall block lifting tool. Though an adjustable clamp can provide some level of adaptability to different sizes of materials, you may want to consider different clamps for different materials due to the specific clamp’s weight capacities.

Lifting clamps work by being adjusted to the size of the material, and then a separate arm lifts to clamp tightly to the material, providing a safe, effective lift. However, there are different types of block clamps, such as a retaining wall block lifting tool, paver lifting tool, step tread lifting clamps, or boulder lifting clamps. These unique block clamp types provide strong support for your lifting needs. They can even be used to lift multiple blocks at the same time!

Benefits of Using Block Clamps

Proper Gripping

The main benefit of a block clamp is that it provides a strong, proper grip on the block being moved. It allows your crew to keep a solid grip on the material they're moving or placing without putting fingers or toes at risk in the process.

Efficient and Safe Transportation

Because the block clamp provides a strong grip on the block or boulder in question, it improves worksite safety and avoids damaged materials due to dropping or falling from an improvised sling or clamp. Designed for the hardscaping industry, a block clamp will provide you with accurate placement of the material you're transporting as well as preventing chipping.

Why Are There So Many Different Block Clamps for Lifting?

There are several different adjustable clamp options, partially due to the type of material being moved. A concrete block lifting device will work differently than a boulder clamp, requiring a different approach to lift the material you're using in the field safely.

Step Treads

Stair treads are often used for elevation changes and are the part of the step that is walked on. Step treads can be bulky and heavy, being six to eight inches high while having differing depths and widths. This size can make them very heavy, requiring a strong adjustable clamp that can deal with all of their dimensions.

For stair treads, you'll want to make sure that the adjustable clamp that you select has the adjustability to properly grip the weight capacity of the tread. As an example, a paver lifting tool may be designed to handle standard depth pieces up to 16.5 inches deep, but will not be built to handle the extra weight and depth of a large landing stone.

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are typically installed on a slope to prevent erosion and increase the usable area by leveling out terraces upon the slope for planting, recreation, and enjoyment. They are created by using large blocks combined with sensible drainage to ensure that the soil at the top of and behind the retaining wall remains in place, while water drains away.

Retaining wall blocks can often use a smaller concrete block lifting device, and in some cases, an appropriate retaining wall block lifting tool may be used to lift multiple blocks at the same time, allowing for faster installation.

Large Boulders & Stones

In some hardscaping, it may be desirable to use large stones and boulders to create a more natural appearance. This can often be found in water features, landscape beds, or built as a retaining wall. Large boulders and stones are difficult to move, making them a great option to prevent erosion.

However, these materials also come with their challenges. In many cases, finding an appropriate block clamp that will work with a boulder grabber can be difficult. However, the advanced adjustability and security of these tools make the job much easier and safer.

What To Look For in a Clamp

Now that you have an idea of what block clamps can do on your job site, what should you look for when considering different lifting clamps on the market? Here are some of the key factors that our customers regularly ask about when debating which block clamp is best for their needs.

Load Capacity

First and foremost among the factors to consider when looking at lifting clamps is the tool's load capacity. Clamps will have a range of load capacities, ranging from around 100 pounds up to 3,000 pounds or more. This provides you with a range of options at different price points to select from, allowing you to find a good fit in terms of carrying capacity that is still within your budget.

Safety Features

In addition to having a block clamp that can meet the weight capacity that you need, safety features should also be taken into account. Lifting clamps should be adjustable to be able to get the proper width and use a lever system to carry the stone level for easy placement. This allows for faster setting of the block and helps improve job site safety.

Precision Handling

A block clamp that is sized properly to the block that you're moving allows for precision handling. Lifting clamps that are too large may be difficult to maneuver, costing you accuracy and precision when you're setting your blocks into place. Always use the appropriate stone clamps for lifting to ensure better precision in handling and setting the stones or pavers in place.

Adjustable Widths

Finally, a block clamp that has a range of adjustable widths allows you to use it for a variety of paver, stone, or block sizes, while still firmly holding the material in place while it's being moved. Look for adjustability that uses sturdy pins to hold the adjustment in place and follow instructions carefully to ensure that you'll get a snug fit and a tight clamp on the material you're moving.

Find your Perfect Block Clamp

At Pave Tool Innovators, our dedication to hardscaping accessories built specifically for the hardscaping industry ensures that you'll always get a good match for the project you're working on. In addition to the range of adjustable clamp options we offer, you'll also find a wide range of layout tools, paver lifters, compaction equipment, and much more. Why not take a few moments to visit our website and see what we have to offer? You can also reach out to our friendly team of professionals to help with your selection. Our strong understanding of the industry means you'll always find the perfect option.