The addition of a retaining wall is an important change to make to your property. In addition to having important functional benefits, it can also become a major factor in the aesthetics of the landscaping. These issues make it important to avoid some potential mistakes when you are designing or building this addition.

Assuming Retaining Walls Are Only For Erosion Control

There is a common belief among many individuals that retaining walls are only needed to prevent hills or other areas of a property from eroding away. While this can be a common way that these walls are utilized, they can also be used to improve the aesthetics of the landscaping. For example, you may want to use retaining walls to build raised flower beds, gardens, or even areas where trees can be planted. Additionally, low areas on the property can be enclosed with retaining walls and filled with soil to prevent ponding and flooding.

Installing Weak Or Uneven Foundations

It is important to appreciate the immense amount of weight that a retaining wall will have to be able to support. The weight of the soil that the wall is holding in place can put a tremendous amount of strain on it. Unfortunately, if the wall was built with an ineffective foundation under it, there could be a much greater risk of the wall crumbling, buckling, or experiencing other problems that could lead to a structural failure. For this reason, great care should be taken when preparing the foundation for the retaining wall. In most cases, some excavation work will be needed to ensure the base of the wall will be as level and stable as possible. While this may add to the construction time for the new retaining wall, it can be essential for ensuring that it can last for years despite the stresses it will have to endure.

Not Including Drainage And Run-Off Control Options

While you will want the retaining wall to effectively hold the soil in place, it is still necessary to ensure that there is good drainage for any run-off during storms. When individuals build retaining walls without hiring a professional, they may fail to include drainage and run-off management design features in the retaining wall. This could lead to large amounts of water accumulating in the area behind this wall. If this occurs, the roots of plants growing in the area may suffer water damage, and the retaining wall may degrade more quickly.

For more information or help with your yard addition project, contact a retaining wall professional in your area. 

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