Retaining Walls: Sometimes it’s good to hold things back.
What is a Retaining Wall?
The simple answer is a wall that retains. But for us at Al Landscape, that’s just the beginning. Let’s give you a crash course in the dos and don’ts, the particulars, the low-down and the rest of the story.
The Basics
Retaining walls are structures which hold and contain soil behind them. They can be constructed from any number of materials: concrete, interlocking block, stone, treated wood, etc. Some of these materials work better than others in certain scenarios, depending upon climate, location and load requirements. These walls work every day, fighting nature’s tendency to find the lowest point of resistance gravity will afford. In this way, a well-built retaining wall can be a chief factor in fighting erosion.
In addition to these practical functions, retaining walls can add a dramatic visual effect to your landscaping by transforming steep, sloping property which would otherwise be unusable, and instead create multiple, terraced levels featuring trees, shrubs and flowering plants. They can provide privacy by creating height too, interrupting lines of sight into your yard and transforming your outdoor space into a private paradise.
A Firm Foundation of Facts
Though on their surface these structures seem simple, there are many considerations when constructing a retaining wall. Shorter walls can rely on gravity to keep them in place since the loads placed on them aren’t as extreme. For taller walls, maybe 4 feet and over, you may find that multiple terraces are required. Taller walls can be reinforced or anchored to avoid bulging or cracking under the substantial loads they’ll be subjected to. They will also need adequate drainage built into them. This prevents the soil from becoming saturated, which can lead to additional problems if the ground freezes and expands in winter. In colder climates where this cycle of freezing and thawing happens, additional excavation below the frost line is needed for the wall’s foundation.
Materials
Materials can vary depending on budget, construction and longevity requirements. Wood is cost effective but may not be suitable in some climates. Concrete is a durable solution but may not be as attractive to some. You may choose a veneer to add to a concrete wall as an option. Stone is always an elegant and attractive feature but can be costly and may require more maintenance. Interlocking blocks seem to blend the best attributes of all of these, but you may choose whatever best suits your aesthetic sense and budget. We can help you choose which option is best for you.
Al Landscape can provide an assessment and recommend the appropriate design for the job. We work with you to determine materials and cost. We are a registered dealer for Unilock, Aquascape, Tech-Bloc, and Batavia Turf. We also carry the best selection of mulch in the area, decorative and regular gravel, screened topsoil and compost, as well as an extensive selection of natural stone and pavers. In our greenhouse, you'll find culinary herbs, ornamental trees and grasses, evergreen and flowering shrubs as well as specialty flowering patio pots.
Go to the Retaining Wall gallery to view samples of our work, and visit our garden center to see our products and design concepts in person. Our years of experience will ensure your project will be a success and will last for years and years, adding to your home’s enjoyment and value.