Retaining walls have been used for centuries to control erosion, create more usable outdoor space, and add visual interest to landscaping designs. These walls come in different materials such as concrete, stone, brick, and wood, and can be installed in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option for many homeowners. In this article, we will explore the benefits of retaining walls, their installation process, and tips on maintenance and repair to ensure that your retaining walls remain a valuable addition to your property for years to come.
Benefits of Retaining Walls
Retaining walls offer numerous benefits to homeowners, including:
Erosion Control: Erosion can cause damage to property and the surrounding environment. Retaining walls help prevent erosion by holding back soil and preventing it from sliding downhill.
Increased Outdoor Space: Sloped yards can limit the amount of usable outdoor space. Retaining walls can create flat areas for gardens, patios, and outdoor entertainment areas.
Visual Interest: Retaining walls can add texture, color, and depth to landscaping designs. With the wide range of materials and shapes available, homeowners can choose a design that complements their property and adds curb appeal.
Property Value: Installing retaining walls can increase property value by adding curb appeal and functionality to the landscape design.
Installation of Retaining Walls
Retaining wall installation can be a complex process that requires proper planning, design, and installation. Here are the steps involved in installing retaining walls:
Determine the Location: The first step in installing retaining walls is to determine the location. The wall should be located in an area where it will serve its purpose, such as controlling erosion or creating more usable outdoor space. The location should also be accessible for the installation equipment.
Design the Wall: The next step is to design the wall. This involves determining the height, length, and width of the wall. The design should also include drainage systems to prevent water buildup behind the wall.
Prepare the Site: The site preparation involves grading and leveling the area where the wall will be installed. The soil should be compacted to provide a stable foundation for the wall.
Install the Base Course: The base course is the first layer of the wall, which is installed below ground level. The base course provides stability and prevents the wall from settling.
Build the Wall: The wall is built by stacking the retaining wall blocks or stones on top of the base course. The blocks or stones are secured using adhesive or interlocking systems.
Install Drainage Systems: Drainage systems are installed behind the wall to prevent water buildup. This involves installing drainage pipes, gravel, and filter fabric.
Backfill and Finish: The final step is to backfill the area behind the wall with soil and finish the top of the wall with capstones or coping stones.
Maintenance of Retaining Walls
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that retaining walls remain functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some tips on maintaining retaining walls:
Regular Inspections: Inspect retaining walls regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or leaning. Early detection of damage can prevent costly repairs in the future.
Clean the Wall: Clean the wall regularly to remove dirt, debris, and stains. This can be done using a pressure washer or a stiff bristle brush and water.
Control Weeds: Weeds can grow in the gaps between retaining wall blocks, causing damage to the wall. Remove weeds regularly to prevent damage.
Repair Damage: If damage is detected, repair it immediately to prevent further damage. Small cracks can be filled with an epoxy filler, while larger cracks may require professional repair.
Repair of retaining walls
Retaining walls can be built using various materials such as stone, block, concrete, or wood. As time passes, the retaining walls built of any of these materials can begin to lean. When this occurs, the homeowner has two choices: either demolish the wall, re-excavate, re-install drains, and rebuild, or call in a foundation repair specialist.
A professional can quickly stabilize the wall and in many cases pull it back into its original position. Foundation repair companies are accustomed to fixing foundation walls using similar techniques.
Anchoring a Retaining Wall
One method used by foundation repair contractors that have gained widespread acceptance is to use of helical anchors. This process can be done using the appropriate number of anchors or supports to make a perfect anchoring system for the wall. This system stabilizes the wall. Depending upon the situation, the nuts can be gradually tightened to move the wall back to its original position.
Fix poor drainage system
One of the most prevalent issues with retaining walls is the lack of drainage. When water can’t drain away from the wall and builds up behind it, you’re far more likely to notice a compromised wall structure. However, if the wall is cracking or leaning in some areas, or you notice the soil around the wall is staying wet longer than in other places, it might be time to add drainage to save your wall from further damage. Regrade the land so that water flows away from the wall. This is often the best long-term solution, as it alleviates pressure on the wall from both the soil and the water. The Weep holes are drilled into the wall so that the water can drain through them instead of pooling behind them.
Repairing the foundation of the retaining wall
The Foundation of the wall can be repaired by Extending the wall’s footing to reduce the pressure that’s on the wall. Using poured concrete instead of blocks is a more substantial solution, but simply going broader and deeper with the foundation can help tremendously. Regrade the land behind the wall to reduce the amount of pressure on it.
In conclusion, retaining walls are ideal solutions to hold up sections of your yard. They can consist of wood, masonry, poured concrete, or concrete blocks. Aside from their practical uses, they can also add an aesthetic element to the design of your yard or garden. Repairing and maintaining these retaining walls needs keen observation and planning.
