Dealing with Problem Slopes in the Landscape

Is your property on a grade? No matter how good it looks, a steep, sloping yard isn’t very functional. If a steep yard has kept you from installing that planting bed, patio or children’s play area you’ve always wanted, a retaining wall may be the answer. Retaining walls hold back soil that might otherwise slide down a hill, and they can create safe, level areas for a variety of uses.

A RETAINING WALL CAN HELP YOU RECLAIM LOST SPACE. TERRACING A SLOPE WITH RETAINING WALLS CAN CREATE LEVEL AREAS THAT ARE NOT ONLY PERFECT FOR PLANTING BEDS BUT ALSO MUCH EASIER TO MAINTAIN.

For maximum strength and durability, pre-cast blocks are likely to be your best bet. They’re engineered to interlock with each other as they’re laid, and most have a built-in “setback” to give the finished wall a slightly slanted angle for added stability.

Depending on the height and slope you’re contending with, additional reinforcement and/or engineering work may be needed. Careful design is very important, especially if your retaining wall will be supporting major structures on your property.

RETAINING WALLS CAN BE BUILT IN A WIDE VARIETY OF SIZES AND MATERIALS, INCLUDING NATURAL OR CUT STONE, TREATED TIMBERS, POURED CONCRETE, AND PRE-CAST BLOCKS IN ASSORTED COLORS AND TEXTURES.

When properly designed, retaining walls can add graceful architectural elements to your landscape while improving its overall usefulness. As with any landscaping project, careful planning to ensure that the finished product meets your specific needs is very important. Properly designed and installed, a retaining wall can significantly improve your landscape’s functionality.