Retaining walls are the construction elements where you don’t have to choose between aesthetics and functionality. The retaining walls have an important function that is to hold back the soil where there is an erosion threat. It can also work as an anchoring source where a steep change in elevating a property is needed. However, with the increasing number of options and types, the retaining walls can help you maximize the use of space in your backyard while holding back the soil simultaneously.
If you choose the right rock wall contractor and know the basics, you can customize your wall to cater to your needs properly and increase the value of your property. When it comes to the design and building of your retaining wall, there are many factors to ponder to get the best result. The article below highlights some of the things that should top your priority consideration lists when designing your retaining wall.
The material of your wall plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness and functionality of the rock wall. Therefore, you should choose from the available options wisely while considering your needs and budget.
Rock wall: With the wide variety of shapes and sizes, the rock wall can help you control the elevation changes in style and can fit any contemporary building style.
Brick walls: These are durable, solid, and a great match for traditional homes and landscapes. You may need to have special drainage systems to use brick retaining walls effectively.
Timber walls: These are the best options for rustic-style houses and blend naturally in the landscape. However, they fall on the expensive side of the cost scale.
Concrete Walls: Modern concrete walls offer a variety of shapes, styles, and color options. Once regarded as cold and too industrial, now the concrete retaining walls can blend well with any of the landscapes, yard, garden, and exterior of the office.
Every state has its local codes to regulate the retaining walls characteristic in the area. For example, in Nanaimo City codes, the regulators want you to obtain a building permit if the length of your concrete retaining wall increases by 1.5 m. similarly, there are limitations for wooden and all other types of retaining walls. Therefore, before carrying the retaining wall project with your rock wall contractor, make sure to understand the local codes and get the permits if required. This activity will save you from a lot of later ruckus.
To prevent the penetration of water and soil in the retaining walls, it is necessary to have an effective and efficient drainage system. The structure of retaining walls can be made better by using an effective drainage system. On the contrary retaining walls with less or no drainage is not sound structural.
Not only can the retaining wall hold back soil and water but it can also enhance your outdoor living area. Shorter retaining walls provide appealing flower beds and give a new texture to the area. You can also make the area creative and more relaxing by adding seating places around it. The addition of benches into the retaining wall can enhance the beauty. You can also use the area above the retaining wall as a family or friends Barbeque spot as well.
Retaining walls are usually required to be built on a stable base placed below the ground level. The taller the wall, the deeper the base needs to be. Therefore, the retaining walls should be designed and built by professionals who can help to build a wall that can benefit you. Rough Rock Contracting has professionally certified engineers and trained mason to provide a strong and durable structure. Ensure that the professionals you are choosing are correctly versed with the local retain wall codes and are properly certified to do the job.
Soil analysis is important to determine the characteristics of the soil. As the type of soil determines all the technical aspects of the structure. The technique to be used to the material used all depends on the soil condition. Moreover, if the groundwater is not stable at your target place, you might need to change the place of the structure.
Even if it is a mere wall doesn’t mean it needs to be plain and boring. You can show your creativity and enhance the beauty of your outer living by adding some additional decorative finishes to it. You can add contrasting lighting to create an ambiance; you can add an outdoor fire pot or even a little water stream that can make the wall much more than just a structure to anchor the soil. Additionally, you can create steps to increase the access to the upper area of the wall; this will increase your outer yard area.
