Retaining walls are not just for show; they serve several important purposes, especially if you have a sloped yard. Building a retaining wall on a slope can be a rewarding project that enhances your outdoor space’s functionality and beauty while increasing your home’s curb appeal and resale value. But what exactly is a retaining wall, and how would you build it yourself?
Why Build A Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is designed to hold or retain soil behind it. It creates level areas, reduces erosion, and manages water runoff on a slope. The design and materials of your retaining wall can vary based on your specific needs and your property’s landscape, along with your home’s style and yard size. Let’s go a bit more in detail on these points:
Prevent Soil Erosion
On a slope, rainwater can wash away soil, leading to soil erosion. A retaining wall holds the soil in place, preventing it from being washed away and helping keep your yard neat and stable. This also helps keep your house leveled and makes the structure safe for generations to enjoy.
Create Usable Space
Sloped yards, in particular, can be tricky to use effectively. By building a retaining wall, you can create flat, level areas perfect for planting a garden, adding a patio, or simply having more usable outdoor areas for activities, increasing the size and enjoyment of your living space.
Improve Drainage
Retaining walls can help manage water runoff by directing water away from certain areas of your yard. This can prevent pooling and reduce the risk of flooding or water damage to your property, often leading to mold and foundation cracks.
Enhance Aesthetics
A well-built retaining wall can be a beautiful addition to your landscape. It can add structure and design elements to your yard, making it visually appealing. Later in this post, we’ll look over different materials to use when we explore how to build a retaining wall on a slope.
Increase Property Value
A retaining wall can increase your property’s value by preventing erosion, creating more usable space, and enhancing the overall look of your yard. It’s a smart investment that benefits your home’s functionality and curb appeal.
Support Structures
If your property is on a steep slope, a retaining wall can provide essential support to prevent the soil from shifting. This is particularly important for protecting the foundations of buildings or other structures and can save you from costly future repairs.
Retaining walls is practical and beneficial and can significantly improve the look and utility of your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to prevent erosion, create a garden area, or just add a touch of elegance to your yard, a retaining wall is a great solution.
How To Plan Your Retaining Wall
Building a retaining wall is more than just stacking stones or bricks and calling it a day–it requires thoughtful planning and precise execution. While foundation construction experts are available to help you, starting on the right foot is best if you want to tackle this project yourself.
- Assess the Slope
Begin by evaluating the slope where you plan to build the retaining wall. Determine the height and length of the wall required to achieve your desired level area. Understanding the slope gradient will help you plan the necessary steps and materials. - Check Local Regulations
Before starting construction, check with local authorities for any regulations or permits required to build a retaining wall. Some areas have specific wall height, drainage, and structural support guidelines. - Choose Your Materials
Retaining walls can be constructed from various materials, including concrete blocks, natural stone, bricks, or timber. Each material has its advantages:
- Concrete Blocks are durable and versatile, ideal for DIY projects. They lend a clean, modern design while being easy to install. Concrete blocks come in various sizes, shapes, and colors.
- Natural Stone: Popular types are limestone, granite, and sandstone. These offer a natural, rustic look and are very durable, making them a good choice for high-end projects.
- Bricks: For a classic appearance, choose red or other colored bricks—ideal for formal gardens and traditional designs.
- Timber: If your budget is tight, pressure-treated wood or landscape timbers are easy to work with and give your wall an informal and rustic vibe. However, depending on the climate of your area of the country, they may require more maintenance.
Build Your Retaining Wall Right: Step-by-Step Guide
So here you are, ready to roll up your sleeves and build your retaining wall! Follow this step-by-step guide to build a retaining wall on a slope so it will stand the test of time.
Gather Your Tools And Materials
- Shovel
- Level
- Tape measure
- Wheelbarrow
- Gravel
- Landscape fabric
- Drainage pipe
- Concrete adhesive (for blocks or bricks)
- Hammer and nails (for timber)
Prepare The Site
- Mark the Location: Use stakes and string to outline the location of your retaining wall. This will serve as a guide during construction.
- Excavate the Area: Dig a trench along the marked line. The trench should be wide enough to accommodate the base of your wall and deep enough to allow for a stable foundation. A good rule of thumb is to make the trench about one-tenth the height of the wall.
Lay The Foundation
- Add Gravel Base: Fill the trench with a 4-6 inch layer of gravel. This gravel base will provide stability and facilitate drainage.
- Compact the Gravel: Use a tamper to compact the gravel firmly. This ensures a solid foundation for your retaining wall.
Install The First Course
- Level the Base: Place the first row of your chosen material (blocks, stones, bricks, or timber) on the gravel base. Ensure each piece is level and tightly aligned. Use a level to check the alignment frequently.
- Secure the Base: For concrete blocks or bricks, apply concrete adhesive between the pieces to secure them in place. For timber, nail the pieces together securely.
Build Subsequent Courses
- Stagger the Joints: Stagger the joints to enhance the wall’s stability when adding additional rows. This means each new piece should overlap the one below it.
- Check for Level and Alignment: Continuously check that each row is level and aligned. Adjust as necessary to maintain a straight, stable wall.
Incorporate Drainage
- Install Drainage Pipe: Place a perforated drainage pipe behind the first course at the base of the wall. This pipe will help direct water away from the wall and prevent water pressure buildup.
- Add Gravel and Fabric: Backfill the area behind the wall with gravel up to about 12 inches from the top. Cover the gravel with landscape fabric to prevent soil from clogging the drainage.
Backfill And Finish
- Backfill with Soil: Fill the remaining space behind the wall with soil, compacting it to reduce settling.
- Cap the Wall: If desired, cap the top with special capstones or timber to give it a finished look.
Pro Tips For Upkeep Of Your Retaining Wall
Ensuring your retaining wall stands strong and looks great requires more than basic construction. Here are some expert tips to help you build a successful retaining wall that will last for years.
- Start with a Solid Foundation: A strong foundation is crucial for the stability of your retaining wall. Take the time to excavate and compact the gravel base properly.
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Good drainage is essential to prevent water buildup, which can compromise the wall’s integrity. Always incorporate a drainage system.
- Use Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality materials suitable for your specific project. This will enhance the durability and appearance of your retaining wall.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your retaining wall regularly for any signs of damage or movement. Address any issues promptly to maintain its structural integrity.
Make It Simple With Dalinghaus Construction
If you’ve read through all this and it seems too big to tackle on your own, we’re here to help! When it comes to building something safe and beautiful for you and your family, we’re the #1 team to help in Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona. From foundation repair to retaining walls, our family-owned and operated business has helped thousands of families rediscover the beauty of their homes. Contact us today for a free quote!
