Retaining Walls

Install Retaining Wall

To install retaining wall structures on commercial or residential properties requires an understanding of the way these walls function. Even a natural stone wall with a simple, casual design must include certain features in order to perform safely and effectively. If you want to install retaining wall units in your landscape, consult a number of licensed landscape construction contractors to ensure that your retaining wall will be secure and reliable.

Retaining Wall Functions

From an aesthetic standpoint, a retaining wall can lend visual appeal to a landscape, create a dramatic new terrain and add one or more elevated areas to your property. From a practical point of view, the function of a retaining wall is to hold a mass of soil in place. Along with stabilizing a sloped landscape, these structures can prevent topsoil erosion, facilitate landscaping tasks and make a hilly property more stable and secure.

Before you install a retainer, it's important to set goals for this landscaping project. If you want to create striking borders around gently sloped flower beds, you may install retaining wall structures like stairs yourself within a matter of days. In many communities, you do not need a construction permit to install retaining wall units that are shorter than 3 or 4 feet. However, you may need a permit from your local planning agency and authorization from a structural engineer to install taller structures.

If your goal is to stabilize a large, steep slope, your best bet may be to work with a licensed contractor who can install retaining wall blocks or timber safely and efficiently. Before you can install a retainer, the size of the slope, its drainage capacity and the design of your landscape must be taken into consideration. A functional retaining wall must have a mechanism to drain water from the soil behind the structure after heavy rains, a thaw or a flood. An experienced contractor knows how to install the right drainage mechanisms.

Types of Retaining Structures

If you want to install a new retainer on your property, you'll have a number of styles and materials to choose from. Natural stone structures are popular in residential landscapes because they are generally easy to install and maintain. These units, which are held together by gravity rather than by an adhesive, integrate drainage into the design of the walls by allowing water to escape through cracks between the stones. To install retaining wall stones using gravity alone does not require mortar, but the stones must be installed correctly to maintain stability.

A timber structure is made from dimensional lumber that is pretreated to prevent insect and water damage. While many homeowners can install retaining wall lumbers for a simple structure themselves, you can create more elaborate walls with stairs, landings, terraces or benches with the help of a contractor. Timber is a sturdy, long lasting material, but because it is an organic substance, lumber can rot or suffer termite infestation if it isn't treated properly before installation.

A segmental retainer is constructed with customized, interlocking blocks that are fabricated by the manufacturer to ensure easy installation. Also known as keystone retainers, shorter units can be installed by skilled do-it-yourselfers without much difficulty. The interlocking configuration of the segments makes it simple to improve the appearance of your yard without spending a lot of money on landscape construction.

Cantilevered units are exceptionally strong, thanks to their unique structural design. These poured concrete fixtures are shaped like a T with the base at the foot of the unit for extra stability. Steel reinforcements are usually installed to provide extra support for the T-shaped units, which often stabilize large hillsides or steep slopes. Cantilever retainer units are often used on commercial properties or public roads, and less frequently in residential settings.

Choosing a Landscape Contractor

Working with a landscape contractor can simplify the process of installation and make you more confident about the final results. Look for a contractor who is licensed to complete landscape construction projects in your state. You can check with your state's licensing board to verify whether a professional is licensed. The contractor you choose should have substantial experience in your community, so that he or she knows about any risks or requirements that must be addressed before you install retaining wall units in your community.

Some contractors specialize in retainers and can show you portfolios of the work they've done in the community. Because it takes special skill and training to install retaining wall materials safely, your best bet is to work with a contractor who has a reputation for completing jobs accurately and in a timely fashion. Compare quotes from several contractors and take the time to review portfolios and contact local references before you make a final decision about this substantial landscaping project.

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