4 Essential Factors to Consider When Installing a Retaining Wall on Your Property

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4 Essential Factors to Consider When Installing a Retaining Wall on Your Property

30 March 2022
 Categories: , Blog


Numerous factors must be considered when contemplating installing a retaining wall on your property. A retaining wall is typically used to control soil erosion and prevent runoff resulting in sinkholes and other drainage problems. However, you can use it also to enhance your property's value. 

Whichever your preferences, consider these essential factors first before hiring a professional to build your retaining wall. 

The Retaining Wall Design

When thinking about designing your retaining walls, there are numerous materials you can use in your landscaping project. You want a design that will make your home's outdoors look more attractive. From natural stone to poured concrete, the list of materials you can use is virtually endless. 

Some homeowners prefer manufactured blocks or beautifully textured stones with excellent appeal and can be found in most local stores. Work with an experienced retaining wall installer for more advice to get your design right. 

Building Codes and Underground Utilities

Before commencing your retaining wall project, it's imperative to learn about building codes in your area. Most local authorities require building permits or construction plans before commencing the retaining wall project. Failure to comply with the local codes can mean bringing down your retaining wall and starting over again, which is time-consuming and costly.

Additionally, you must assess underground utilities such as sewer lines and electrical cables before excavation. That's necessary to ensure safety during the construction process, lest you risk electrocution or property damage.

Consider Drainage 

Water is a critical factor to consider when installing your retaining wall since poor drainage can impact the service life of your retaining wall. Therefore, proper drainage around the retaining wall must be taken into consideration. You can achieve better drainage by backfilling with gravel, installing drainage pipes or weep holes that facilitate better drainage for your retaining walls. 

Placement and Size

Analysing the purpose of installing a retaining wall, drainage, and the landscape helps you determine the wall's height, placement and size. Additionally, this is important when determining whether to build a reinforced retaining wall or a gravity retaining wall. Furthermore, considering the property's slope, setback and surcharges are imperative. 

A setback is typically the wall's angle and in the ground, while things like driveways, fountains, and the pools' weight define surcharges. On the other hand, gravity walls depend on their weight and setbacks. Limited gravity calls for the installation of reinforced walls for more stability and strength. 

Consider these four essential factors when installing a retaining wall on your property. Additionally, work with a reputable landscaping expert in your area to guarantee the success of your project.