Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are an important part of any yard because they prevent soil erosion, manage runoff, and add structural support. They can also help prevent flooding, keep surrounding structures safe, and create usable land for planting. Retaining walls can also add value to your home and improve its curb appeal.

7 Benefits of Retaining Walls

1. Prevents erosion

Perhaps the most common reason homeowners install retaining walls on their property is to stop erosion. If your property is hilly or slopped, there’s a good chance that heavy rain, winds, and even irrigation will alter your geography. Think of retaining walls as a way to “retain” the land and your property’s layout in its current form.

2. Manages runoff

Retaining walls can redirect the way water travels, particularly during a harsh storm. If flood waters encroach on your home each time it rains, a retaining wall can help prevent significant property damage.

For example, when storm water runoff soaks into your home’s foundation, the freeze-and-thaw cycle can create cracks, causing costly repairs. Managing storm water runoff also protects local wildlife and keeps pollution out of our water.

3. Prevents sinkholes

On the topic of water, when rainfall infiltrates the ground, it can erode the bedrock. When this happens, sinkholes can form. Areas with limestone bedrock are especially susceptible. Retaining walls help prevent sinkholes by redistributing water and limiting pooling.

4. Adds structural support

Your home needs a solid foundation, and that includes a foundation with sturdy soil. If your lot sits on an incline, a retaining wall can protect the integrity of your foundation and provide the structural support necessary to keep your home safe from unstable soil.

5.Creates usable land for planting and entertainment

Planting vegetation is a great way to protect your yard against soil erosion. But if your property has a steep decline, you may find it hard to grow anything. A retaining wall or tiered retaining wall can provide usable flat surfaces.

What would you do with additional, usable land? Plant a garden? Create a seating area overlooking your property? Add a tv and bar for entertaining? Install an outdoor kitchen?

6. Aesthetically pleasing

Whether constructed of concrete, Natural boulders, brick, or treated wood, retaining walls are an elegant, aesthetically pleasing upgrade to your homes curb appeal. Retaining walls allow you to redesign unsightly drop-offs, create beautiful flower beds, and add texture to your property.

7. Adds property value

Continuing with the theme of curb appeal, retaining walls add property value to your home. The culmination of erosion control, structural support, functional space, and aesthetics means higher property resale values. According to the American Society of Landscape Architects. such investments in landscaping can add up to 20% to the value of a home. Plus, an average return of 100 to 200 percent in resale.