What to Know About Retaining Walls for Your Property

There are a number of reasons you may be considering the installation of retaining walls on your commercial or residential property. Whether you need to keep an embankment from eroding into your parking lot, or you want to direct water run off to avoid flooding your yard, there are a few things you may want to know before starting this project

What a Retaining Wall is

A retaining wall is a structure built to contain soil when there is a sharp change in elevation. In many cases they are used to help prevent soil erosion or direct water runoff. Because the ground on one side of the wall is lower than that on the other, the wall has been built to withstand any pressure building up on the higher side in order to protect the lower.

Building Conditions

The construction of retaining walls is dependent on a variety of factors. Among these are the location, the type of soil, the weather and anticipated water runoff, the angle of the slope, what structures are located on the high side of the slope, and how high the wall will need to be. Each of these things among others can affect the type of wall you need to build. A professional can help.

Materials and Use

There are various types of materials that can be used in the construction of a retaining wall. These may include wood, stone, concrete, or a mix. The height and construction of the wall is determined by where it is build and the conditions of the area. In most cases a wall may be built to protect a parking lot or driveway, but some people find them useful for walkways, in ground pools, patios, or raised garden beds.

Now that you know more about retaining walls and how they are used you can begin making an informed decision about the type of wall you may need for your property. Remember to talk to a professional about the area where the wall will be built and to consider all the conditions including soil type and weather when designing your wall.