Retaining wall as it suggests is a structure that retains. It is constructed to retain and tolerate the sideward pressure of soil. It is to keep the soil and the materials in the soil from moving away. This pressure that develops has many causes like filling earth, the pressure of liquids, sand and other granular-like materials that are located on the other side of the wall. It simply means that the wall is there to protect.
Various Kinds of Retaining Walls
There are Many Kinds of Retaining Walls. They Include:
- Gravity Retaining Wall
- Crib Retaining Wall
- Gabion Retaining Wall
- Cantilever Retaining Wall
- Buttress Retaining Wall
- Anchored Retaining Wall
- Piled Retaining Wall
- Mechanically Stabilized Earth Retaining Wall
- Hybrid Systems
Determining Factors in Choosing Retaining Walls
Stone walls are hardy, they can easily be maintained, they are heavy and yet they require very less maintenance cost as an overall budget. Depending on the type of wall that you require, you have to choose the type of retaining wall stone for your compound. The material of the wall is very dependent on the structure that you want to be constructed.
After your purpose is met, it is time to now look at other factors like functionality and look of your retaining wall stone.
Retaining walls are more suited for structures that stand on sloping ground. Other than that, it will serve to give support to structures. It functions more or less like the footings that keep a wall in place to help retain the soil better. You can make different piles with the stone retaining walls. Using the right blocks helps in the overall building of the wall.
What Makes Your Retaining Wall Last Longer?
Using the dry-stack method to build your retaining wall is the best method as it requires no mortar or concrete footing. This method is effective because it allows the water to pass through your retaining wall stone and thereby reduce the hydrostatic pressure that builds when the soil is wet. If there is proper drainage, then your retaining wall will last an eternity. Stacking rocks against the wall will enhance drainage and prevent cracks from developing. The right stone retaining walls with concrete footing gives your home the much-needed support and strength. Generally, there are different types of stones, gravels, coarse sand, masonry adhesive, landscape fabric etc. that can be used for this purpose, and you can make the walls with that.
Natural Stone as Retaining Wall Material
By natural stone, you will immediately understand that the stone has come from the earth. It has been quarried to get it over to you.
The functional natural retaining wall stone includes granite, sandstone, boulders, cut blocks and slabs. Along with its functionality, you also have to look out for the style that goes with your landscape. But whatever reason you may be installing a retaining wall, using natural stones to construct it a timeless and rich feel.
Wrapping Up With Tips for A Perfect Retaining Wall
If you want a perfect retaining wall for your landscape, buy retaining wall stones that are flat in shape. It could be flagstone or ashlar.
And if you are one for that vintage look and feel, then add some plants here and there in your retaining wall stone. You will get that ancient kind of look. The rough-cut stones will give you gaps where you can insert some soil for plants to grow and if you have cut stones, then purposely make gaps to accommodate the plants.
Plants like perennial yellow asylum, creeping thyme and annual white asylum are the best plants that will look good and appealing. The plants should be those types that will spill down the entire length of your wall.
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