Exploring Retaining Wall Design and Materials

Retaining walls can be a great way to improve the function and appearance of your grounds. When properly designed, they can redirect water, halt erosion and add interest to your landscaping projects. Several key factors can influence the size, shape and structure you need to work best in your circumstances. These include your budget, expected precipitation, and the current degree of erosion in the area. Each one of these factors should be carefully taken into account and balanced to ensure your new retaining wall is built to the right specifications.

The first considerations in any landscaping project are exactly what outcome you wish to achieve and how you can work with the natural flow of the land rather than against it. You may be building your wall because you need to halt erosion near a watercourse, or just to provide more flat room for gardening. It is important to understand exactly where and why each wall is being built to make sure you have the right materials and your new wall will properly serve its purpose. This is particularly important for walls over four feet high, as they will require special consideration and planning.

The size by height and length of your retaining wall can define all future design considerations. Low walls can be built from inexpensive materials like wood or concrete blocks, and often do not require any special skills to create. In the right circumstances, these walls can last for years. Higher walls or walls near water need to construct more heartily. Water can take a tremendous toll on surfaces, and whatever material you choose will need to be resistant to rot, cracking and the power of moving water.

The easiest wall to make your wall last longer is stack each block or brick carefully on a slight slope. This allows the blocks below to fully support upper blocks against the earth shifting outward. Walls that are built straight up can quickly topple over when the ground swells from rain or shifts over time. Certain materials, like wire gabion, can shift and settle with the earth to absorb these stresses. Very strong materials can also be a safe bet. Brick and poured concrete are both fine examples. If properly laid, brick can last for decades, even with rain, flooding, and shifting foundations.

The materials you use will definitely impact the longevity and appearance of your retaining wall. The right materials can last you decades with the right installation and attention to detail.

Visit this website for more information on retaining walls in San Jose.