What’s in a retaining wall? That which we call concrete by any other name would still sound as sturdy. That is what Shakespeare would say if he ever had a part-time job building walls. But we are not here to discuss alternate history timelines. We are here to talk about retaining walls. We will define what they are, find out how they work, and so much more.
Now you might want to leave your literature vibes behind as we are about to start.
A Little Fundamental Check
A retaining wall is a structure that serves two primary functions: to withstand lateral soil pressure and to stop soil from advancing to a location. There are many materials you can utilize to make a retaining wall, including the following:
- Wood
- Concrete
- Limestone
- Brick
- And so much more
If you think you cannot go artistic with retaining walls, then you better start thinking again! You may customize these structures to add appeal and value to your property. Retaining walls also create a contrast with the environment around them, creating an artistic effect.
Retaining Wall Types
Yes, there is more than one. Here are the several types of retaining walls you can install:
- Wood retaining walls
Retaining walls that utilize wood as the primary construction material offer more in terms of aesthetics. Wood is pleasing to look at at any time, and it goes well with the surrounding area. The only downside to this kind of wall is that termites can attack it. In addition to that, wood can also suffer from elements, such as rain, snow, and so much more.
- Gabion retaining wall
A gabion retaining wall is a structure that comprises many wire mesh boxes. Workers will then fill the boxes up with any construction material, such as concrete and rocks. These walls are ideal for sloping locations.
- Brick retaining wall
If you are all about style, then brick retaining walls are your best bet. Besides their primary function, these walls add a contemporary look to any location. To add to this aspect, brick walls are cheap, good for the environment, and do not require a lot of maintenance.
- Metal retaining wall
Metal retaining walls are all about durability and longevity. These walls utilize steel as the peak construction material. Another feature is you can work these kinds of walls even in locations where space is an issue.
- Poured concrete wall
Another wall that speaks durability would be poured concrete walls. This kind of wall uses concrete. The neat thing about concrete is that you have several options on how to employ the material. Each method would work differently, making poured concrete walls flexible as well.
Why Build A Retaining Wall At All?
Retaining walls do more than add up to your privacy. These structures take care of unwanted soil that might end up on your property by holding the material back. A retaining wall has numerous construction and artistic elements, making them a fine addition to your place. What’s more, they will add value if you have plans to rent out or sell the property.
Getting Professional Assistance
You have the option to hire a professional contracting company if you wish to have retaining walls in your setting. What you can do is look for a company online. With so many websites available online, you will not have any difficulties looking for a suitable_company. But before you hire, it is best to make sure that the organization or entity that offers the services is licensed and bonded. Doing so will save you from unnecessary and hidden charges. You will also protect yourself from scammers pretending to be decent service providers. It is better to be safe than sorry.
The Cost Of Hiring
A few factors will come into play in terms of how much you will have to pay. Such factors include the following:
- Location
- Materials
- Tools and equipment
- Labor
- Transportation
- The company you will work with
It pays to talk things over with the contractor. Once you do, you will not have any issues in terms of the project’s duration, how much it will cost, and so on.
I Would Rather Do It Myself
Sure. We have no problems if you do. But do make sure you have the necessary skill set, knowledge, tools, and equipment for that DIY retaining wall project. Working on a retaining wall with no expert assistance also gives you creative freedom and complete financial control. What you do and how you do it is no one else’s business.
To Settle Things
Having a retaining wall in your property is a neat investment. You will not have to worry about any soil and other materials intruding on your place. Plus, having such a structure has some additional merits you might not even know of in the first place!
