When you have a beautiful house, your garden and green areas will benefit from the addition of a new dimension provided by your retaining wall. However, suppose you’re thinking about putting one on your property. In that case, you may be curious about how much it will cost you. You will be surprising to know that it does not cost much, and it has plethora of other benefits that overshadow the costing.
Retaining walls – What are they?
A retaining wall is a hard barrier that is constructed to keep soil (and other organic material such as stones) from migrating downward and causing property damage. Resining walls are often used to create stepped levels for aesthetic purposes. Still, they may also be utilised for practical reasons when dirt would otherwise encroach on a road or public walkway.
Multi level retaing wall with plants in backyard
In circumstances where the soil has been built up, or if a sloping area has been partly excavated and the remaining soil needs support, a retaining wall may be required or preferred.
Factors to consider while selecting a retaining wall
There are five critical factors to consider while selecting a retaining wall.
1. Cost of a lifecycle
The most often seen form of retaining wall is the wood pole wall, which is made using round treated pine posts and rails. This is sometimes the least expensive solution for modest walls up to 1.5–2 metres high, frequently constructed by homeowners or weekend do-it-yourself warriors.
However, this sort of wall is rather unattractive, seldom has the requisite design life, and therefore gets mouldy and unsightly over time – not to mention the horrendous lean caused by improper design or obstructed drainage.
2. Sustainability
The majority of retaining walls will need a construction permit and will be required to have a 50-year design life. Although other wall types, such as wood faced, might seem worn out far sooner, mould and rot impair both appearance and durability.
Concrete is a classic finish that will look fantastic for 50 years or more. Even harsh environmental conditions, such as those found along the seaside, pose no danger to a well-designed concrete facing system.
3. Essential aesthetics
While retaining walls are mostly practical in nature, meant to retain soil and give a practical shift in ground level and they are often extremely apparent due to their very nature. Consider the wall’s overall influence on the property, as well as the texture, colour, and pattern alternatives. In general, a concrete block wall offers the greatest flexibility in this area.
4. Constructability
Whether you desire to create the wall yourself or hire an expert contractor, there are several non-obvious factors to consider. Several of them include:
- Mechanical access to the site.
- Temporary support for the cut face during construction.
- Proper drainage.
- Any specialised equipment that may be necessary.
5. Design
Whether you like it or not, a retaining wall is a construction and must be planned accordingly. Site characteristics such as soil strength, groundwater presence, and any stresses on the wall from buildings or vehicles must all be considered.
Regardless of this, you do not want the wall to collapse since it will detract from the value of your house and maybe far more costly to repair than to build effectively in the first place.
Wrapping Up
When designing a retaining wall, consider the size and material of it. Also, pay attention to the aesthetic appeal of the wall. But, most importantly, keep in mind its function and keep in mind the safety part. Your wall will last for many years if you use the right materials, build it properly, and provide enough drainage.
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