Let’s start with the definition of retaining walls. Retaining walls can be defined as any exterior wall that is used to hold ground. A retaining wall may consist of a horizontal layer of brick, stone, or wood that is used to level the earth on a slope to plant vegetables or flowers. Other retaining walls may be needed to retain tons of soil to prevent erosion. When choosing the services of a professional builder retaining walls Brisbane, there is a lot you need to know.
Planning Your Retaining Walls
How tall should your wall be? What would be the best material to use? Is the wall primarily decorative or does it have a specific purpose? You won’t know the answers to these questions until you go outside and take a closer look. It goes without saying that you have chosen the location for the wall. Knowing the size and approximate length of a retaining wall will tell your installer several important things. This will help him with suggestions for the right materials. A professional installer can help by creating a visual image using a stick, a string line, or stakes.
The height of your wall is a very important consideration for your property. Heavy forces (ie tons of soil) act against the retaining walls. Your wall must be able to withstand these forces and have proper drainage to ensure that the added weight of the water does not cause the wall to collapse.
Once your contractor understands your goals regarding the form, height and length of the proposed wall. So he will know how much material will be needed. A reputable contractor will have no problem getting you the following information. If the contractor cannot provide these items, you may need to continue the search.
- business license
- Bonds (if required by the city)
- A certificate of insurance will be sent directly from the contractor’s agent (general liability, labor comp, etc.).
- Permit for the project (if required – depending on the code for your city/county)
- Engineered design (if required – depending on the code for your city/county – generally when a wall is more than four feet high)
- Location of utility services (to ensure the safety of underground utilities—occurs several days before the project starts)
Choosing Retaining Walls Materials
Some of the most popular retaining wall materials include:
Concrete: Always stylish, ask your contractor about a concrete block wall system. Another option may be to consider concrete with stone veneer.
Concrete with stone veneer: These have the same pros and cons as concrete. It takes a little longer to make them; Concrete must be poured and allowed to set before building the stone veneer. When complete, your wall will look like it’s paved with stone.
Pre-cast stackable block: Stackable concrete block gives the same elegance to pavers with the same size and symmetry and symmetry of finished blocks. These walls are relatively easy to build and are excellent when curves are required.
Brick: Brick is a good option, but for best results, hire an experienced bricklayer who has experience with retaining walls.
Stone: Stone can come in many types, colors and can be natural or cut. They offer the same benefits as brick and must be designed correctly to include proper drainage to avoid cracking.
Boulders: A wonderful addition to a mid-century or colonial yardscape. Multi-ton boulders will require hiring of heavy equipment.
Natural stone: Stone can come in many types, colors and can be natural or cut. It fits in beautifully with the architecture of Bergen County homes.
Timber: Railway ties, treated pine and some hardwoods are suitable for retaining walls. A wooden wall can be stunning in the right setting. Wood may not be your best long-term solution, however, because all wood is subject to decay over time. If you choose lumber, make sure the wood is treated to prevent rot.
Professional Retaining Walls
Construction methods will vary depending on the material you choose. If you choose wood. For example, your contractor may suggest embedding posts to counteract lateral pressure. Choosing a Brick? You’ll probably need concrete reinforcement and a well-established drainage system. Don’t take any chances. Your professional retaining walls Brisbane will recommend the best course of action.
Like any construction project, do your homework and get a quote for your wall. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals and reviews. Select a contractor. Knowing that you’ve covered everything you need to know. Once you educate yourself know how to build a retaining wall and that you understand what to look for in a contractor. So you are ready to enhance the value and beauty of your home with a retaining walls Brisbane made by a trusted professional.
At Trimscapes, we pride ourselves on listening and asking questions until we fully understand your wishes. When we start designing a retaining walls Brisbane, our goal is always to enhance the customer’s perspective and create a wall which is functional as well as beautiful. If you are in Brisbane call Trimscapes to discuss how we can beautify your property while increasing its value.
