Retaining walls are functional and attractive hardscaping features that are often overlooked by homeowners. Whether you have sloping terrain, erosion issues, or simply want to enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space, a retaining wall can be an excellent addition to your landscape. We will explore what a retaining wall is, the top benefits of a retaining wall, the different types of retaining walls available, and why it is essential to hire professionals for this hardscape installation.
What Is a Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back soil or rock in a sloping area. In doing so, it creates a stable, level surface up to the wall’s threshold. This helps to increase the amount of usable land, as flat space is often more functional than a hill. Retaining walls are beneficial for improving drainage of the ground through added French drains or weep holes that help distribute water elsewhere. Retaining walls can also enhance the beauty of your landscape, creating focal points and decor throughout the space. With a variety of materials available for building one, such as concrete, stone, or timber, retaining walls help build an aesthetic on the property.
What Are the Benefits of Retaining Walls?
- Preventing Soil Erosion: If you have a sloping yard, you may face challenges with soil erosion. A retaining wall can help prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place and preventing it from washing away during heavy rains. These walls are a physical barrier against the movement of ground from one spot to another with water flow.
- Creating Usable Space: A retaining wall can create a flat and leveled area in your yard, which can be utilized for various purposes. You can turn that previously unusable sloping area into a stunning garden, patio, or even an outdoor seating area. The retaining wall creates a space that can be filled in, turning the hill into a level surface.
- Enhancing Landscape Aesthetics: Retaining walls come in various materials, colors, and patterns, allowing you to choose one that complements your overall landscape design. It can add visual interest and create a focal point in your yard. Done skillfully, a retaining wall enhances the attractiveness of a space and can be customized to the coloring and style of the rest of the home’s exterior.
- Improving Property Value: A well-designed, professionally installed retaining wall can significantly increase the value of your residential property. It adds an attractive feature to your outdoor space that also improves the usability of the property while preventing drainage problems, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
- Preventing Damage to Structures: If you live in an area prone to soil movement, a retaining wall can protect your property from damage. It offers stability and prevents the soil from shifting and causing harm to nearby structures sensitive to these changes, such as driveways, patios, and foundations.
Types of Materials for Retaining Walls
There are different materials used to build a retaining wall and different methods of constructing them. The right choice will come from a combination of factors, including necessary height, design preference, and drainage needs.
Concrete Retaining Wall: A concrete retaining wall is a popular choice due to its durability and strength. It can withstand significant lateral pressure and is an excellent option for larger retaining wall projects. It is tricky to install, however, as setting concrete is sensitive to temperatures and its mixture ratios.
Retaining Wall Blocks: Retaining wall blocks are precast blocks designed specifically for building retaining walls. These are installed by laying the bottom row across the projected line, then setting the next layer on top in a staggered fashion so that each piece is centered on the joint below. Interlocking lips on the back of the block help ensure alignment so that each row of blocks is slightly set back from the one below. These come in different sizes and colors and are an excellent choice for walls needing to curve.
Timber Retaining Wall: Timber retaining walls offer a more natural and rustic look to your landscape. They are relatively cost-effective, but timber may require additional maintenance and may not be as durable as concrete or block.
Stone Retaining Wall: If you prefer a more natural and cottage appearance, a stone retaining wall could be the perfect option for you. Stone retaining walls blend seamlessly with nature and can add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. With variable and irregular stone sizes, perfectly selecting how to lay the stones and securing them requires a skilled hand.
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Why Professional Hardscape Installation Is Important for Retaining Walls
It may be tempting to DIY a retaining wall project, but hiring professionals for the installation is highly recommended. Hardscaping professionals have the necessary expertise to design and install retaining walls correctly. There are several technical aspects, such as setting up proper drainage, compacting the soil for a secure base, and determining the correct positioning for a wall that comes with experience. It’s not just putting a wall together—it’s forecasting where to best position it, how tall it should be, whether drainage features such as French drains should be added, and ensuring the right materials are sourced. With nearly two decades executing hardscaping around Nashville, Greenway knows what considerations should be made and what issues may arise before they even become a problem.
With a retaining wall being a potentially expensive project, ensuring a durable and long-lasting result is key to avoiding the headache of redoing it prematurely. Hardscaping contractors have access to the right tools and equipment to handle the project effectively, providing you with a properly set retaining wall that stands the test of time. Professionals can also complete the installation efficiently, saving you time and effort while giving you peace of mind it’s done right.
Incorrectly installed retaining walls can lead to costly repairs down the line. When you work with Greenway, we minimize the risk of mistakes, ensuring that the retaining wall is built to code and meets all structural requirements. This includes verifying local regulations and obtaining necessary permits, which many people don’t realize may be needed. Our work is guaranteed, and we stand behind every project we carry out.
If you are considering installing a retaining wall near your home, don’t hesitate to contact Greenway of Nashville. Our team of hardscape professionals has the experience to design and install the perfect retaining wall for your needs. We offer quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and a wide range of materials and designs to choose from. With our consultation process, we’ll assess your land, discuss your needs and preferences, and draw up a comprehensive plan that includes a guaranteed price quote.
Don’t wait until your yard washes away! Call Greenway of Nashville today at (615) 238-4574 or schedule a consultation through our easy online form. Enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of your home with a done-for-you retaining wall from Greenway.
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