With a few do’s and don’ts, you can build a retaining wall and enjoy its benefits. There are plenty of other reasons for building a retaining wall, such as functional support to keep soil in place and reduce soil erosion. You may need to correct issues caused by slopes in the terrain. No matter your reasons, Cypress Creek Landscape Supply has all of the materials you need for constructing a retaining wall and making any other additions to your landscape. The following are helpful tips for building a retaining wall.
Check Local CodesBefore you begin the process of preparing to build a retaining wall, find out if a permit is required or if there are any other requirements or restrictions you must adhere to. Check regulations of your homeowner’s association or local building codes. It’s possible a property inspection will be needed to make sure a retaining wall doesn’t cause any drainage problems.
No matter what type of design you want for your retaining wall, start the building process by marking the layout. Whether your layout is freeform or a straight line, use strings, stakes, and marking paint.
If you are building a block retaining wall, figure the number of blocks you will need. Determine the number of blocks needed per row by dividing the total length of the wall by the length of the block. Next, to see the number of rows needed, divide the ideal height of the wall by the height of the block. Keep in mind that the first row will be half buried.
Building a retaining wall can cause back strain, depending on how heavy the blocks are. If needed, wear a back support. Consider having the materials for your retaining wall delivered. You may also want to enlist help so that the workload is shared. Keep in mind that various materials are available for construction of retaining walls, including some that can simplify the work because they have locking flanges along the bottom.
After you’ve calculated the number of blocks needed for your retaining wall, add about 10% more to your purchase. The additional bricks should make up for any breakage that may occur, and you may also need to cut some blocks. It’s good to keep replacement blocks for ongoing upkeep of your retaining wall, as well.
Before you begin preparing the foundation of your retaining wall with excavation, be sure you won’t encounter any underground utilities. Call 8-1-1 to determine whether any buried lines are in the way.
The support system of your retaining wall will determine how strong it is. Stacked-block retaining walls should be 4 feet high at most. Dig a trench that has at least 3 inches of crushed rock on bottom to help prevent settling and shifting of the wall. The height of the wall should determine the depth of the trench.
Cypress Creek Landscape Supply Can HelpThe experts at Cypress Creek Landscape Supply have the bulk materials and all other products needed for gardening, landscaping, and building retaining walls. Visit our 2-acre oasis located at 12734 N. Florida Avenue in Tampa, FL, or call us at (813) 933-7944 today.
