We all know the benefits of having retaining walls constructed in residential and commercial developments. From being an elegant outdoor design feature to protecting slopey grounds, safeguarding the soil, to fixing drainage issues, there’s no doubt that a retaining wall can offer multiple benefits that last a lifetime. However, they also wreak havoc when not constructed correctly. In fact, some of the common retaining wall construction mistakes often destroy the wall within less than a year. While qualified retaining wall construction companies will always keep these factors in mind, here are three mistakes to be careful about.
Using the Wrong Materials
While it may be tempting to build a wall with low-quality, DIY-level materials because of the low price point, the damage that the wall will experience in the long run won’t be worth it. The most common reason why many retaining walls fail to meet their construction objectives is that they’re built with substandard materials that don’t match the walls’ desired quality.
Since retaining walls are a significant investment, it’s always a better idea to choose premium-quality materials for retaining wall installation. Some materials to always avoid when planning a retaining wall construction include aggregates, blocks used for other construction purposes, and DIY items that you’ll find at Home Depot for affordable rates. A reliable alternative that ensures the quality and longevity of the wall is concrete. It’s an excellent material for constructing a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing retaining wall.
Improper Course Leveling
Another common retaining wall construction mistake is the improper course leveling that usually occurs at the base course. Retaining walls significantly rely on their foundation to stand tall and allow all the steps or courses of the wall to stay intact for years. Therefore, if you haven’t successfully leveled the bottom row of the retaining wall, your project is highly likely to fail.
The best way to avoid this is by investing in advanced machinery and tools that’ll allow you to seamlessly level all the courses of the retaining wall.
An Unstable Wall That Can’t Support the Load
Whether you’re having a retaining wall built to support the patio, the driveway, the backyard, or the front gate of your residential or commercial development, it’s crucial to ensure that the wall is stable enough to bear the load. Many contractors build unstable falls that are unable to carry the load of the structure on them.
The key is to make the right engineering constructions when you intend for your retaining wall to carry some significant weight when it’s built.
If you’re looking for reliable retaining wall installation services in California, don’t forget to check out the earthwork services offered by our experts at Mountain Movers Engineering Co. With decades of experience and knowledge, our company continues to assist clients with retaining wall repairs, grading for commercial projects, small backyard repairs, screen wall installation services, and various other earthwork services in California. Explore some more of our services and projects here, and contact us to learn more today!
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