When it comes to landscape design, retaining walls have a lot to offer. These structures provide many practical benefits, but they can also greatly enhance the exterior of your home. Here are a few key facts to consider if you're thinking about making landscape improvements soon. 

FAQ About Retaining Walls

What is the purpose of retaining walls?

Retaining walls serve many important purposes. They can improve drainage around your home by diverting water away from it, which also helps with soil erosion. They also help even out sloping landscapes, which means you and your family will get more from your backyard. 

Are there different options?

Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials. Common selections include natural stone, concrete, bricks, and wood. There are also four basic types of retaining walls, including sheet pile, cantilevered, gravity, and anchored. Sheet pile walls are thinner than others and are driven directly into the ground, while cantilevered walls are reinforced with steel bars. Gravity walls use their own weight to keep soil in place, and anchored walls use cables to maintain stability. 

How high should the wall be?

In general, most retaining walls are between 4 and 5 feet high. However, it's also possible to build these structures much higher depending on your needs. Some commercial walls can be as tall as 40 feet, although most homeowners won't need to build quite so high. You'll also need to adhere to any local ordinances regarding their height. 

What are the benefits of retaining walls?

These structures offer a combination of practical and aesthetic benefits. Along with preventing soil erosion and leveling your property to increase usable space, retaining walls also greatly boost curb appeal around your home. You can even incorporate other landscape design elements, such as flower beds and plants, to ensure the perfect look. 

Since 1985, Sharp Lawn Inc. has helped homeowners in Lexington, KY, and surrounding areas develop beautiful landscape designs. In addition to planting trees and shrubs, they also have extensive knowledge of hardscaping, including retaining walls, patios, and fire pits. Because it's a family-owned business, customers can expect top-notch service at every turn. Visit the website to learn more about your hardscape options or call (859) 253-6688 to discuss your needs today.