Landscapers often install retaining walls for functional purposes. While they play a significant role in protecting your outdoor space from damage, they can also add visual appeal to the land. If you’re considering this hardscaping structure for an upcoming project, here’s some information you should keep in mind.

What You Need to Know About Retaining Walls

What are they?

Usually made up of either stone or brick, retaining walls are typically installed on angled or sloped surfaces to prevent issues like surface runoff and erosion. Both of these concerns can cause soil and water to shift, potentially leading to flooding and plant loss. Moving soil can even affect the foundation of the home if left uncontained. 

Can they be installed in garden beds?

Retaining walls are commonly used to create separation in tiered garden beds. The effect is not just practical but also highly attractive. Doing so transforms each portion of the garden into layers, allowing you to call attention to different plants and flowers. 

The ultimate purpose is to prevent the soil from eroding on an incline, but the addition of an attractive wall also creates a focal point that transforms your outdoor space.

Do they require maintenance?

At the bare minimum, you should inspect the wall regularly for signs of weather damage. Heavy rain and snow could cause cracks to form in stones or brick over time, inviting problems like moisture intrusion and deeper damage. 

Check for bulges, too, as these may indicate moving soil underneath the wall. If you notice any areas of concern, contact your landscaper; they can fill gaps in the material and fill in any areas that may be eroded.

Why is drainage important?

If water were to pool behind the wall, it would create intensive force and put unnecessary pressure on it. Over time, that strain can cause the wall to fail. 

To prevent this, your contractor will drill weep holes in the wall to allow water to escape from behind the structure. Another option is to install a perforated drainage pipe, through which water enters and drains away from the wall. 
 

If you’re interested in installing a retaining wall, let the team at Gardeneer Inc. help. Proudly serving clients throughout Chaska, MN, since 1971, the company offers a variety of landscaping and irrigation services. Find out more about how they can make your design goals a reality while prioritizing the health of your yard. Visit the website for information, or call (952) 361-5502 to speak with a representative.