Everything Homeowners Want To Know About Retaining Walls
What is a Retaining Wall?
By definition, retaining walls are high, rigid walls that support soil. By supporting soil, retaining walls will strengthen a house’s foundation, prevent erosion, and restrain soil on a slope at an angle it wouldn’t naturally. These walls can be made of brick, stone, wood, and even concrete blocks. Whether you ask a professional or build your own, there are several things to know before you start.
Planning Your Retaining Wall
There are several factors to think about when planning your retaining wall. How high do you want it? What materials do you use? Why are you building it? Is it for decorative purposes or structural stability? To answer all these questions, you’ll need to explore your yard and find the best option.
First, you must determine what part of your yard to build the retaining wall. Determine your wall’s shape, layout, and length ahead of time to save time and money. This will let you focus on other things, like the materials you will use to build the wall. A professional will often use sticks, stakes, and string in your yard to measure the area for the retaining wall.
Knowing the height of your wall is also important. Retaining walls are holding back tons of soil that are pushing back against it. Your retaining wall won’t work or be stable unless it withstands all the force from soil and water. Proper drainage must also be built to divert the excess pressure from water and moisture that builds up. If not done, the wall could potentially collapse.
Also Read : Types of Retaining Walls
Once you decide where you want to build your retaining wall and how you want it to look, the contractor you work with can give an estimate for the amount and type of materials you need. A reputable contractor should have no problem getting you this information right away, as well as their own credentials. This should include the following:
Business License
Bond (if the city requires it)
Project Permit (depending on city or county code)
Insurance or a certificate of insurance to be sent directly to the contractor’s agent
Engineer Design (depending on city or county code)
Location of Utility Services (to ensure the safety of underground utilities)
If the contractor you’re working with can’t provide most of these immediately, it would be best to look elsewhere.
Retaining Wall Materials
You can make retaining walls from many different materials. Some include:
Concrete: A classic and stylish choice for many homeowners. Talk to your contractor about the potential benefits and problems involving concrete walls.
Concrete with veneer: Similar advantages and disadvantages to standard concrete walls. These take a little longer to build as the concrete must be poured and set before the veneer is put in place. Once it’s done, however, it won’t look like a concrete wall but a stone one.
Pre-cast stackable block: Stackable blocks are a great choice, as they provide the same elegance as pavers and add an even, symmetrical look. If you want to include curves in your wall, blocks make this easier to create.
Brick: For best results with brick, hire a bricklayer with experience in retaining walls.
Stone: Stone can come in many different shapes and shades. They can fit any home architecture, as they can be cut or keep their natural shape. Remember that they must be appropriately designed to avoid cracks and drain properly.
Boulders: These can be a great and unique addition to your home. Heavy lifting equipment should be utilized when handling boulders.
Timber: Many types of wood are also suitable for retaining walls. A wooden wall can look stunning in the right setting. However, if you’re looking for a long-term solution, wood may not be your best option. Wood decays after a time, so if you insist on using it, ensure it is treated to resist rotting.
Depending on the materials you wish to use, construction methods will vary. For example, a contractor may recommend installing posts to resist lateral pressure if you choose wood. For brick, you’ll need concrete reinforcement and an effective drainage system. Don’t waste time and money with trial and error. Seek help from a professional on how best to build your retaining wall on the first try.
In Conclusion
Like any other outdoor project, do your homework and research the best methods to build your wall. Find referrals and recommendations from friends and other customers. You can then select the best contractor with a basic understanding of retaining walls and increase the value and beauty of your home in the process.
Contact Rock & Block Hardscaping Supply
We at Rock & Block Hardscaping Supply have all the materials you need for your next outdoor project. Check out our website at https://rockandblock.co/ or visit our stores in El Cajon or Temecula today. Let’s start your next project today!