A Guide On Retaining Walls

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Retaining walls help prevent erosion on your landscape. Moreover, the wall can help improve your landscape's appeal. If you plan to build a retaining wall on your property, below are some interesting facts to help you with your build. 

Always Assess Building Regulations

It would be unfortunate if the retaining wall were declared an illegal structure on your property. Therefore, conduct an assessment to determine whether you are permitted to install a retaining wall. If you are, inquire about the standards you should observe when designing and installing the wall. For example, the local council could require residents to submit building plans before receiving formal approval to start the construction work. On the other hand, strata associations could ask you to ensure the construction work does not affect nearby structures or your neighbour's peace. For example, if you intend to conduct intensive excavation work, you should assess whether the excavations affect nearby structures. Typically, you should underpin them if the excavation would weaken their structural integrity. 

Inspect Your Landscape

Inspect your landscape to determine how to execute the retaining wall build process. For instance, you should avoid building the retaining wall close to underground utilities such as water and electricity lines. If you plan to extend your property, integrate the retaining wall with other means of erosion control, such as gabions. This way, you do not have to demolish the retaining wall and conduct massive earthmoving works when extending the property. 

Go For Appealing and Functional Designs 

The retaining wall must complement the allure of your home's exterior and landscape. For instance, the stone colour or pattern could complement or resemble the pavers or bricks used to build your home. Moreover, you could go for beautiful curved retaining walls. These tips should help ensure the functionality of the retaining wall; 

• Ensure the retaining wall has a strong base and pillars to support the weights the wall will bear. Do not shy off from reinforcing the wall with piers to increase its rigidity and resistance to opposing forces.
• Your retaining wall should have ample drainage. For instance, you could install French drains or incorporate gravel at the end of the retaining wall to drain water during the rains.
• Consider other erosion control methods, such as planting grass to supplement the work of the retaining wall.
• Consider several parallel retaining walls instead of building a high retaining wall. It creates beautiful terraces on your landscape and helps prevent the risk of collapse during heavy rains. 

Always consult an experienced retaining wall contractor when building the wall. The professional conducts geotechnical analysis to determine the type of soil and additional surveys to establish the loads the wall will bear. 

For more information, contact a company like Maitland Ready Mixed Concrete Pty Ltd.

19 December 2022