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SE Michigan's Premier Landscaping
& Snow Removal Experts
“Where quality is always in season.”
Get Your Free Estimate:
(248) 939-3600
Retaining Walls
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SE Michigan's Premier Landscaping
& Snow Removal Experts
“Where quality is always in season.”
All You Need to Know About Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are structures built to provide support for soil and other materials in order to maintain the integrity of a slope or embankment. They are typically used to prevent erosion and to add stability to a landscape. Retaining walls can also be used to create visual interest in a landscape and to define outdoor living spaces. The most common materials used to build retaining walls are concrete, stone, brick, and timber. Concrete: Concrete retaining walls are the most commonly used type of retaining wall.
Retaining Walls Construction in SE Michigan
They are typically constructed with poured concrete or precast concrete blocks, which are joined together and reinforced with steel.
Concrete walls are very durable and are able to withstand the pressure of heavy loads.
Stone: Stone retaining walls are one of the oldest types of retaining walls and are often used in more traditional or rustic landscapes. Stone walls are usually constructed with large, flat stones and are often used to create terraces or steps. Stone walls are extremely durable and can last for decades if properly maintained.
Brick: Brick retaining walls are constructed using brick or concrete blocks and are often used to create a more formal or elegant look. Brick walls are very strong and can be used to create curved shapes.
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Types of Retaining Walls
The type of retaining wall you choose should depend on your project’s purpose, the soil type and grade of your yard, and your budget. The most common types of retaining walls include:
Gravity Retaining Wall: This is the most common type of retaining wall. It is made out of materials such as stone, brick, or concrete and is typically used for smaller projects.
Cantilever Retaining Wall: This type of wall is constructed using reinforced concrete and masonry. It is designed for more significant projects and is often used for taller walls or walls with a high load.
Sheet Pile Retaining Wall: This type of wall is constructed with interlocking sheets of steel, wood, or concrete. It’s often used for projects in coastal and marine areas.
Anchored Retaining Wall: This type of wall is constructed with reinforced concrete and masonry and is anchored to the ground with cables and anchors. It is designed for more significant projects and can be used for taller walls or walls with a high load. Retaining Wall Construction Process The construction of a retaining wall will vary depending on the type of wall and project.
The Basics of Retaining Walls in SE Michigan
When choosing a retaining wall for your Southeast Michigan property, the first consideration is the size and shape of the project. You’ll want to select a wall that’s strong enough to hold the earth and tall enough to prevent any soil erosion. Retaining walls come in a variety of materials, including natural stone, concrete block, interlocking block, and poured concrete. When it comes to building a retaining wall, there are several things to consider. The base of the wall should be larger than the top, and the wall should be built on a level surface.
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Constructing a Retaining Wall
Proper drainage is also essential, and the wall should have a layer of drainage gravel to ensure that water is directed away from the footing. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the wall is securely anchored into the ground with steel reinforcement rods and concrete. Finally, the finishing touches are important. If you’re using natural stone, be sure to select pieces that are flat and well-fitted. If you’re using concrete, you may want to color the wall to match your home’s exterior. Retaining walls can also be topped with decorative caps or covered with a layer of soil and planted with shrubs or plants.
Materials
Retaining walls for residential applications in Southeast Michigan are typically made from poured concrete, natural stone, or manufactured blocks and caps. Natural stone walls are attractive and durable but can be expensive. Manufactured blocks and caps are less expensive and come in a variety of shapes and colors.
Installation
Once the foundation and materials are in place, the wall is built in courses starting at the bottom and working up. Each course is leveled, and the blocks are stacked and mortared together. Once the wall is complete, the backfill is placed behind the wall up to the level of the top course.
Maintenance
Retaining walls should be checked periodically for signs of shifting, cracking, or water seepage. If any of these are found, a professional should be consulted to inspect the wall and make any necessary repairs. Additionally, any plants that have been added to the wall should be monitored and pruned regularly to ensure that the wall remains stable.
If you’re planning to build a retaining wall
Once you’ve obtained the necessary permits and checked the area for underground utilities, you can begin planning the construction of your retaining wall. The most common types of retaining walls in SE Michigan are constructed out of stone, concrete blocks, brick, or wood. Stone and brick walls are generally more expensive, but they last longer and look more attractive. Wood walls are the least expensive option, but they don’t last as long and are more susceptible to weather damage. Prior to constructing your wall, you’ll need to prepare the area by removing any plants, roots, and debris. After the area is cleared, you’ll need to dig a trench and install weep holes to ensure that water will be able to escape. Weep holes are usually placed in between blocks, about every 8 feet. If you plan to build a stone or brick wall, you’ll also need to lay a base of compacted gravel. Once your base is in place, it’s time to start building your wall. If you’re using stone, brick, or blocks, make sure to dry lay the first few rows before applying mortar.
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