Retaining walls are an excellent way to add structure and dimension to your landscaping. They can make the sloping yard more functional and usable and prevent soil erosion. However, building and installing a retaining wall can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first time doing this.

In this blog, our experts will review the basics of building a retaining wall so you can confidently build one.

Planning Your Retaining Wall

Before your start with the preparation, there are a few things that you’ll need to plan.

o Location

What will be the exact location of the wall? Consider the surrounding landscape and the slope of the ground.

o Height and Length

Determine the height and length of your retaining wall. Keep in mind that taller walls require more engineering and reinforcement. You might even have to hire retaining wall installation services to build and install the retaining wall if it’s too high.

o Materials

Choose the type of material that you think would best suit your needs. Some popular options include natural stone, wood, and concrete blocks.

Choosing The Right Materials

Once you’ve planned your retaining wall, it’s time to choose suitable materials. Here are some things to consider when making your selection:

o Durability

Go with the material that’ll last many years and stand up to external elements.

o Style

Consider the aesthetics of your house and your existing design. Choose material that’ll complement the surrounding landscape.

o Ease of Installation

Consider how difficult or easy it’ll be to work with the chosen material. Some materials, such as blocks or concrete, are easier to install. But others, such as the natural stone, may require professional expertise.

Preparing The Site

Before you begin building the wall, you’ll have to prepare the site. Here are a few things that you should take care of:

o Mark The Site

Use string and stakes to mark the height and location of the wall.

o Excavate

Excavate the area where you’ll install the wall. This will ensure that the wall is stable and leveled.

o Level The Ground

Use a tamper or a contractor to level the ground. This will help in creating a stable base for the wall.

Building Your Retaining Wall

The general process that you should be following for building the retaining wall includes the following:

o Lay the First Course

Start by laying the first course of your retaining wall. This course will define the overall level and height of your wall.

o Add Reinforcement

To build taller walls, you’ll have to add reinforcement. You can do this by using materials such as rebar or geogrid. Since it’s not an easy task, hiring professionals for this is recommended.

o Backfill

You should backfill the area behind the wall with soil once it’s completed. This will offer additional stability to the wall.

Looking For Retaining Wall Installation Services In California?

Our experts at Mountain Movers Engineering Co. can help you. We’ve completed numerous projects for residential properties and commercial properties as well. We also offer numerous engineering services, including slope restoration, small backyard repair, screen wall installation, and much more.

Have more questions about our services? Get in touch with us today.