What Is A Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall holds back the earth and creates level ground for a yard or hillside slope. Retaining walls are used for land management purposes or to accomplish a variety of landscaping objectives. The ultimate and primary job of the retaining wall is to create a barrier to hold the soil. A retaining wall is often used to protect against soil erosion or to create a flower bed on level ground. But, there is also a form to the function. A retaining wall will typically also add to the overall look of the landscaping. These walls can create a decoratively pleasing addition to the curb appeal when done well. Which Kind of Retaining Wall? A retaining wall is typically one of two basic types of structure. The two kinds are geogrid reinforced and gravity. It's essential to determine which type is necessary to help determine the kind of materials used. Geogrid Reinforced Retaining Wall Due to the amount of soil that a retaining wall must hold back, the most challenging jobs must be structurally equipped to withstand the expected amount of pressure. The geogrid utilizes a type of material, similar to netting, laid vertically between the earthen layers. The mesh is incorporated into the earth on the slope and attached to the wall's structure to provide extra support. The result is like having multiple layers rising to the surface at the top of the retaining wall. The Geogrid style of reinforcement is a specialty method that is only available with walls using certain material options. Because of its additional support, a wall with an expected considerable height should plan for materials that allow for a geogrid construction. Gravity Retaining Wall Outside of these conditions that mandate the geogrid construction, most retaining wall builders will opt to use the standard construction method using a gravity retaining wall. The gravity option is the one most commonly used for home and garden projects. They are often shorter, as most homes are built on lots without a severe degree of slope. There is a limit to how tall a gravity wall can be built before it can no longer support itself and the earth. These walls frequently reach an average of around four feet but can be as tall as ten feet if the load is not overly demanding. Wall Construction Materials As the retaining wall is factored into the landscaping, designers can get creative with the types of materials used. The walls can have a strictly utilitarian look or one that is limited only by the imagination. The wall can be coordinated with the rest of the overall look of the grounds. Some unconventional materials options include railroad sleepers, natural stones, wall stones, bricks, and various treated woods. A retaining wall can be made from any number of materials. Some favorites are rocks, boulders, poured concrete, concrete blocks, bricks, or treated wood. These options will vary in price, how they can be used or constructed, how long the material is expected to remain in place, and the amount of maintenance expected. Pros and Cons The appearance of the material is not the only factor to consider. There are pros and cons to each of the choices. For example, wood is a commonly selected material for those who want to keep costs down. Wood is also a relatively easy material for the layman constructing a retaining wall. The downside is that the wood breaks down over time and exposure to the elements. It will require maintenance sooner and more frequently than the other options. Rocks and concrete materials are more formidable against the weather, will require less maintenance, but they may not offer the look the homeowner is interested in achieving. The overall result may be more appropriate for a business than a residential property. Some stunning retaining walls can be constructed using stones or boulders. The effect will offer natural, lasting beauty, but it won't be cheap. Walls made of stones or boulders may fall a bit short on their ability to serve the practical side, allowing for more water to pass through than the wall intends. Also, the masonry knowledge required for this type of wall is often outside the regular handyman's realm of experience. A cast-in-place retaining wall, aka a mortared wall, is another option. This option is different because of the method by which the wall is constructed. It will often offer a similar variety and style of materials. Some options for a cast-in-place retaining wall could include veneers, flagstones, or bricks. The uniqueness of these types of selections will frequently result in a highly individualized and custom-finished wall. The downside is that they demand expert construction, which increases the cost significantly. Finally, since these walls are put in place as a solid structure, they are susceptible to damage, such as natural events like earthquakes. Lastly, there's the segmental retaining wall (SRW). This type is arguably one of the easiest to build. This wall is made up of concrete blocks with an interlocking feature that, when joined together, compiles the expanse of the wall. There's no masonry required, and the blocks are readily affordable. Best of all, they typically endure for decades. Choosing The Right Material it is essential to weigh all the pros and cons of each option to select the material best suited for the project. The builder must factor in the price, degree of building difficulty, preferred aesthetic, and how much maintenance can be devoted to the wall once it's in place. Further, the type and volume of soil that the wall will be holding back, the wall's expected height, and what other existing structures may be above the area where the wall is to be constructed are additional considerations. Need Help? Constructing a practical and visually pleasing retaining wall can present a challenge. It requires extensive planning and knowledge. If you need an expert to partner with you to avoid any pitfalls with your retaining wall in Kelowna, BC or the Okanagan, Kelowna Retaining Walls is your local retaining wall builders. Our hardscape contractors are ready to help. Comments are closed.
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