In addition to accenting a landscape’s design, retaining walls strengthen soil and serve as a foundation for gardens. They’re particularly useful for sloped properties, which are more vulnerable to erosion. If you’re thinking of calling Rugged Slopes Hawaii to build a retaining wall on your property, the Honolulu, HI-based experts recommend learning a bit about wall design—that way, you’ll have more insight into the decisions they make during construction.

Here are three important aspects of rock or concrete wall design:

• Solid Base Construction: Regardless of what materials your wall is composed of, it needs a solid base. Retaining wall bases are usually constructed below ground level, and the taller the wall, the deeper it needs to go. Contractors can make bases from compacted soil, sand, and gravel.
• Drainage Strategy: If you want your retaining wall to last many years, ensure it’s protected from one of the most destructive forces on the planet: water. The best way to do this is to construct a drainage system. To facilitate drainage, a good landscaper will stack soil behind the wall and run a pipe through it. Any precipitation that hits the wall will enter the piping through weep holes.
• Reinforcement: The height of your wall will determine the reinforcement it requires. For example, simple rock walls don’t exceed four feet in height, so they don’t require much reinforcement. If you have a sloped property and need a higher or terraced wall, your landscaper may need to incorporate anchors into your design.

Rugged Slopes Hawaii has constructed foundations, retaining walls, and other masonry projects for over 25 years. No project is too big or small—they complete every job with professionalism and integrity. To request a quote, give them a call at (808) 722-4918. More information about this fully insured and bonded service is available online. Their service area includes Honolulu, HI, and surrounding communities.