A yard retaining wall is an advantageous and at times necessary addition to many gardens. It is not only a practical solution that can help to add value to your property, it can also make your garden more aesthetically pleasing and nice to spend time in, as well.
Building a retaining wall in your yard doesn’t have to be difficult or overly complex, but there are some things you should consider before you begin.
Read on to find out the five things you must consider before starting work on a yard retaining wall.
1. Permission
Before you start any major works on your lawn and the exterior of your home, it is a good idea to inform both any neighbors you have and the relevant authorities. This is because a retaining wall can potentially redirect water flow to your neighbor’s yard, or otherwise affect the landscape. In many places, it is required by law to inform authorities when building structures above a certain height, so it is always good practice to let them know your plans.
2. Foundation
A wall is only as good as its foundation. If you fail to provide a wall with a strong and sturdy base, chances are it won’t last very long. For a wall no higher than four feet, a three-inch trench is usually sufficient, while anything larger will require something more substantial.
3. Stability
When deciding where and how to build your retaining wall, be sure to choose very carefully. The best place to build a wall is somewhere the ground underneath will be as flat as possible. You can use different methods, but a carpenter’s level is the easiest way to ensure that the chosen surface is completely flat, otherwise, you run the risk of erecting a lopsided or unstable wall.
4. Materials and Design
A big part of building a yard retaining wall are the materials and design you choose. There are a number of different options available, and you’ll want something that is strong and safe but will also fit in with the design of your garden.
Wood, poured concrete, and natural stones are all viable options. Meanwhile, you can choose to opt for either one tall wall or multiple tiered ones. Then there are different additions that can be applied at the end, for a finishing flourish.
5. Drainage
Proper drainage is essential for longevity in a retaining wall. If groundwater saturates the soil the wall is placed on, then it can cause the soil to swell, causing damage to the wall. If you fail to make provisions for proper drainage when it’s being built, then you may soon find your wall buckles, breaks, and is rendered completely useless.
Getting the help of professionals—such as Fitzgerald Concrete Construction—can be a good idea if you’re not sure what your best option is in this regard.
Build Your Yard Retaining Wall Today
Don’t let the preparation and protocols scare you away from embarking on this DIY endeavor. The truth is, with a little bit of research, hard work, and careful consideration, almost anyone can build their own yard retaining wall.
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