When it comes to retaining walls, beauty, and functionality are no longer mutually exclusive. When there is a sharp change in elevation on a property and erosion is a problem, a retaining wall is constructed to prevent soil erosion. Yet, with the range of available techniques and materials, retaining walls in Adelaide may attractively enhance the usable yard area and prevent erosion. After you have mastered the fundamentals, you can design a wall that fulfills your demands and boosts the value of your home!
Factors Your Need to Consider for Building Retaining Walls
1. Material matters
While determining the optimal material for a retaining wall, it is important to consider the wall’s function, style, and budget.
Stone walls, available in a broad range of appealing forms and hues, complement any landscape design and are a popular option for height adjustment.
While drainage considerations are essential, robust brick walls are durable and an excellent option for historic houses and gardens. Wood walls are perfect for houses with a rustic aesthetic since they mix in with their surroundings.
Traditionally considered cold and industrial in appearance, concrete walls come in various forms, styles, and colors today. Concrete, designed for durability, may complement your yard, garden, and home’s exterior.
2. Consider codes
Retaining walls must be constructed on a solid foundation excavated below ground level. The deeper the foundation must be excavated, the higher the wall. In many regions, rules demand that retaining walls be higher than four feet and constructed by a licensed engineer. In certain areas, fencing is necessary for three- to four-foot tall walls. Even with shorter walls, being aware of and adhering to local building regulations before construction is vital.
3. Install drains
Effective drainage prevents water and dirt from accessing the retaining wall’s construction. A retaining wall with inadequate or nonexistent drainage is physically unsound!
4. Improve the fashion
A retaining wall is more than just an earth-retaining structure; it can enhance your outdoor living space. The creation of flower beds on retaining walls is possible.
Add a sitting wall around your patio or bench seating built directly into your retaining wall for a unique touch. Add some interest to your landscape by using a curved wall. Several companies providing retaining walls in Adelaide are well experts in the construction of retaining walls.
5. Provide final touches
Incorporate an outdoor fire pit or water feature into the design of your retaining wall to display its endearing qualities. Contemplate constructing stairs to access the area above the wall and enlarging the outdoor living area. Add landscape lighting to your retaining wall to create contrast and ambiance, and finish the effect with wall caps.
6. Consider the height
Retaining walls must be constructed on a sturdy foundation positioned below ground level. The greater the height of the wall, the deeper the foundation must be buried. Typically, walls taller than four feet must be planned by a licensed engineer and constructed by a registered mason. Before beginning construction, familiarize yourself with the local building regulations. Retaining wall industries are growing as the demands for retaining walls increase daily. So, you can take advice from them about the height.
Conclusion
Incorporate a water feature or outdoor fire pit into your retaining wall to demonstrate creativity. Consider constructing stairs to access the area above the wall to enlarge your outdoor living space. Also, you may use contrasting lighting to create mood and wall caps to improve the appearance.
