4 Reasons to Build a Retaining Wall
Retaining walls are designed to eliminate soil erosion and improve drainage. If you have a wet basement or foundation, notice places where water tends to pond, or if you want to level a sloped yard, you will want to install one. This is especially important because soil erosion and drainage issues can result in structural damage to your home or building.
If you do need a retaining wall, the good news is that the project itself isn’t that time-consuming or costly, especially when you hire a professional to perform the work. The cost varies based on the material the wall is constructed from (concrete, wood, stone, etc.) and the height and width of the wall, and the timeline of the project will vary based on how big the wall is.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the primary benefits of a retaining wall.
1. Protects Property Against Flooding
Any sloped area that causes water to pond or puddle at the base of your property needs to be addressed. If your property has a slope that contours towards the structure, it will likely need a special drainage system that directs water flow away from the building. A retaining wall’s main purpose is to facilitate that drainage system by controlling how much water flows downhill.
Ensuring a functional drainage system will ultimately prevent flooding and resulting property damage.
2. Enhances Curb Appeal
Retaining walls are not only functional but also enhance curb appeal. It can improve your outdoor living experience by adding another surface to place container plants or other outdoor decorations.
If there is an area in your yard with shrubs or flowers, a wood or stone retaining wall can add visual appeal by creating a beautiful backdrop. These walls are also a decorative and functional way to separate grassy areas from concrete areas, such as a swimming pool, paved gazebo area, or outdoor kitchen.
3. Provides Erosion Control
The two leading causes of soil being swept away are wind and/or water. Secondary causes include the displacement of soil that naturally slides down a steep slope or the lack of plant roots, rocks, or gravel to stop soil from breaking apart.
When used with a properly working drainage system, retaining walls have been proven to stop soil erosion because they prevent soil movement by holding the soil in its place, eliminating the risk of soil sliding downhill or being swept away.
4. Creates More Space in Sloped Yards
Any property that sits on a steep uphill or downhill will lose the use of that sloped part of the land. Another problem with heavily sloped land is the difficulty of cutting grass or growing any type of vegetation. Often, sloped land is dry and can quickly become infested with weeds.
Installing a retaining wall can help mitigate severe slopes, which opens up more possibilities for planting gardens, trees, and shrubs. You could also add stairs to the wall to add accessibility to front entrances and other outdoor areas.
Create a Custom Retaining Wall With Help From Design One
Founded over 30 years ago, Design One is a premier landscaping company serving both homeowners and commercial property owners in Michigan. We specialize in landscape design and can design and build retaining walls, outdoor water features, walkways, and more.
Contact us today with questions you have about retaining walls or to request a free project consultation and quote.
