Onorato Landscaping: The #1 Fort Lee, NJ Retaining Walls

Retaining walls can prevent soil erosion, create usable beds in steep terrain, and add decorative features to landscape designs. They may be independent structures, or part of larger construction projects. Walls higher than 1 metre may require planning permission. Freestanding retaining walls do not require building regulation approval as long as they are stable. Retaining walls can also be used to close in a yard from a neighboring area.

The cost of a retaining wall varies based on the materials used, labor costs, and the size of the wall. If you decide to build a wall yourself, you can cut down costs by purchasing the materials at home depot or hardware store. However, if you are doing the job yourself, make sure you know exactly what you want before you begin. It’s possible to install a short wall on your own, but you’ll need more time to do it right.

Concrete block walls are commonly used for retaining walls. They provide superior structural support and are inexpensive. However, they offer little aesthetic value. As a result, they’re often covered with a decorative masonry unit or stone veneer. While concrete block remains the most common component of retaining walls, its versatility has allowed its development. Increasing the height of a wall without sacrificing structural strength is now possible by using block. This is also an option when you’d like to match the wall to the color of your pavers.

Choosing the right material for a retaining wall is an important consideration. Timber walls are generally best if they lean into the hillside by 1 inch for every 12 inches of height. Timber walls that are four feet or taller should be tied to the hillside with deadmen anchors – six-foot-long tiebacks buried in the hillside. They extend 6 feet back to a 2-foot-wide T-bar.

When planning a retaining wall, it’s important to consider the drainage needs of the area where it will be placed. A well-designed retaining wall needs efficient drainage to avoid hydrostatic pressure from damaging the structure. To prevent hydrostatic pressure from affecting the structure, landscaping contractors should backfill the space behind the wall with gravel. Weep holes can be installed in the wall to allow water to drain through and into the soil beneath.

A retaining wall can be built in a variety of ways. A DIY project can be a simple 3-foot wall that you can construct yourself. If you’d like to build a taller retaining wall, you can hire an engineer. The professionals have the right tools to build a taller wall and adhere to relevant building codes. And if you’d like to have a more elaborate retaining wall, consult an engineer to determine what type of material is best.

Sheet pile retaining walls are typically used in tight spaces and soft soil. This type of wall is made of a variety of materials, including plastic and metal. As with any other retaining wall, the height of a sheet pile wall can vary depending on the surrounding environment. A high wall will require a tie-back anchor, placed behind the face of the wall and behind a failure plane in the soil. It is vital to carefully consider the environment before constructing a sheet pile retaining wall.

Retaining walls are commonly made of interlocking concrete blocks or stone. These are a cost-effective and durable option. Many landscape companies use Unilock products, a trusted supplier of concrete masonry materials. Their products have a low maintenance requirement and are easy to install. Another option is natural stone, which is a more expensive option. But while stone can be heavy, it is aesthetically pleasing and more functional. This material is available in many forms and colors.

Another option for a retaining wall is a geocellular structure. Geocellular structures are anchored into the ground using individual cells. Geocellular structures are also a great choice for gentle slopes. Depending on the location, these structures can be made of a variety of materials. These structures can be used to support flower beds and other plants. You can even construct a raised patio or outdoor kitchen on top of your retaining wall.

Retaining walls can also be decorative. Some retaining walls have a travertine topping. They can add beauty and structure to a sloped landscape. In fact, you can even get cinderblock retaining walls with a travertine topping. This type of retaining wall is made with a mixture of natural stone and travertine, which is one of the most expensive options. If you are unsure of what type of wall to choose, make sure you talk to your landscape architect or contractor.