Want to learn how to install a retaining wall?
In order to ensure that your retaining wall is up to scratch, you need to make a to-do list and plan the entire process very carefully. It will also be important to call experts in wherever necessary so that they can provide assistance for the jobs that are most difficult.
Failure to do this may lead to the wall being faulty.
A retaining wall is a wall that holds back (or retains) soil and stops it from sliding or erosion. Walls such as those in basements and outdoors are therefore retaining walls, as they are below ground level and therefore retain soil.
Retaining walls are great for gardens.
A retaining wall is a great way to segment your yard in an interesting way. There are various aspects that need to be considered and by knowing the different areas to look into, you will be able to build a solid retaining wall which will last the test of time.
How to Install A Retaining Wall: 5 Steps of Preparation
There are a number of points that need to be considered when you are planning your home improvement project, from deciding on the creative design, size, terracing, blocks, and stones to drainage.
We have listed some of these below:
Step 1. Estimate your budget
It is important to ensure you work out your budget so that you know exactly how much you can afford to spend throughout the installation. Do some number crunching and decide on what the estimated figures will be, including the materials and labor that will be needed. This will make it easier for you to choose the right stones and blocks that fall within your price range, as well as find the right contractor to carry out the installation if you do not plan to install the entire wall by yourself.
Do some number crunching and decide on what the estimated figures will be, including the materials and labor that will be needed. This will make it easier for you to choose the right stones and blocks that fall within your price range, as well as find the right contractor to carry out the installation if you do not plan to install the entire wall by yourself.
This will make it easier for you to choose the right stones and blocks that fall within your price range, as well as find the right contractor to carry out the installation if you do not plan to install the entire wall by yourself.
Step 2. Compare wall materials
There are various different materials that you can choose from for your retaining wall.
For instance, you can opt for concrete, a wall built from solid or semi-solid blocks, a rubble retaining wall, or even a timber one. Your personal preference will play a large part in the material you opt for.
Consider the cost of concrete and wood materials to ensure it’s within your budget.
Step 3. Decide if you want a practical or stylized wall
Another thing you will need to decide is whether you want a retaining wall merely for practical reasons or to also enhance your garden in terms of the design so that you can incorporate it into your outdoor living activities.
Step 4. Consider the size of the wall
You will also need to take into consideration the size of the wall. There is generally no issue with the planning and creation of smaller retaining walls that are below four feet in height. However, if you are looking to install one that is above four feet, you will need to look at planning codes to ensure that you are able to have it installed. Also, remember that the size of the wall will affect the overall cost of the project, which means more labor if you are having it professionally installed. You will also need to bear in mind where the wall is to be installed. For example, if you want a retaining wall installed in your garden, you need to remember that it will be exposed to the elements and therefore needs to be hard wearing.
There is generally no issue with the planning and creation of smaller retaining walls that are below four feet in height. However, if you are looking to install one that is above four feet, you will need to look at planning codes to ensure that you are able to have it installed. Also, remember that the size of the wall will affect the overall cost of the project, which means more labor if you are having it professionally installed. You will also need to bear in mind where the wall is to be installed. For example, if you want a retaining wall installed in your garden, you need to remember that it will be exposed to the elements and therefore needs to be hard wearing.
However, if you are looking to install one that is above four feet, you will need to look at planning codes to ensure that you are able to have it installed. Also, remember that the size of the wall will affect the overall cost of the project, which means more labor if you are having it professionally installed. You will also need to bear in mind where the wall is to be installed. For example, if you want a retaining wall installed in your garden, you need to remember that it will be exposed to the elements and therefore needs to be hard wearing.
You will also need to bear in mind where the wall is to be installed. For example, if you want a retaining wall installed in your garden, you need to remember that it will be exposed to the elements and therefore needs to be hard wearing.
Step 5. DIY vs professional help
Whether or not you are able to install the retaining wall yourself will depend on your skills and confidence levels.
Some people with a knack for DIY may find that they are fine to create and install smaller retaining walls themselves. This means that all you need to do is purchase the materials and then invest your time and effort into the installation.
However, if you do not have the necessary skills or experience, you will need to find a qualified contractor that can carry out the installation for you.
Make sure you find one that has a solid reputation. It would be a good idea to ask around friends or family for a recommendation, especially if you get to see the work the contractor has already done for them.
DIY Installation
If you decide to install a retaining wall on your own, there are a few steps you need to follow.
These steps will ensure your retaining wall has a strong foundation and lasts for years to come. Take a look at these steps below to get started.
6. Create a strong foundation
You need to create a solid foundation by digging it a few inches below grade and then compact it to level. You can then add filler before you lay down your first blocks or stones. Gravel is a common filler used throughout the process.
7. Drainage
You will also need to plan for additional drainage at the base of your retaining wall has a slope that drops to it. You can add gravel and a drainage pipe that has fabric covering at the base in order to do this.
8. Keep it level
As you build the retaining wall, you need to ensure that each layer is level.
This is to ensure that the wall is balanced and sturdy as well as to ensure it has aesthetic appeal. This is particularly important when installing a retaining wall on a slope or hill. If you overlook this aspect of your wall, it may appear unlevel from a distance.
Use a level to ensure your wall is aligned with the ground as eyeing it rarely turns out well.
9. Add backfill
As you add each course of blocks or stones, backfill to the same level. Doing this as you go along will provide additional support and make life easier for you.
10. Finishing touches
Once you have laid your top layer of blocks or stones, you can add the finishing touches. This includes adding masonry adhesive in order to keep them in place and then adding the cap.
All of these tips will help you to more effectively plan the installation of your retaining wall. Remember, you can even incorporate the wall into your lifestyle, by using it to create stunning outdoor living spaces or even use them to incorporate multi use places.
