A deep understanding of landscaping tricks is crucial if you live in hilly terrain. Besides countering the drastic effects of social erosion, it elevates the beauty of your backyard and provides a unique facelift.
Retaining walls are part of the landscaping tricks you need to kill two birds with one stone. Despite their simplicity in appearance, you need to plan well when constructing. For instance, if your soil is heavy, especially after soaking wet, you need to construct a good retaining wall to sustain the pressure. Any form of miscalculation could end up with a weak wall that can easily collapse.
If you are ready to get your hands dirty and promote your garden with a retaining wall, the guideline below will give you a good start.
Check Authority Requirements
Different states have guidelines on how retaining walls should be constructed based on a number of factors. For instance, a wrongly constructed retaining wall can affect your neighbours' access to natural water. In addition, it may also have an effect on the flow of surface runoff and affect the community within. Therefore, you need to obtain a legal permit from relevant construction authorities in your region before you begin the construction.
Select A Workable Material
Different materials can be used to construct your retaining wall. Basically, you may consider using natural stones, large timbers, poured concrete or even bricks. Depending on how you'll be handling the project and need it done, choose a construction material that gives you less trouble.
Manufactured blocks offer the best option if you are considering a DIY project. Literally, they give you an easy time when locking the flanges on the edges of the wall. The stones are easily accessible in any local home improvement and manufacturing store.
Build A Good Foundation
The foundation of your retaining wall is the main support system of the entire construction. If you compromise its stability, it may not offer the required support, which means its lifespan will run short. For instance, if you a building a stacked-block retaining wall system that is no higher than five feet, dig a trench and have it filled with at least four inches of concrete. This helps maintain the stability of your wall regardless of external conditions. In addition, it prevents the wall from shifting to one side.
Note that when building your foundation, the blocks should sit on a levelled ground surface to set a good stage for the rest of the wall.
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