Because some homes are built on slopes or uneven terrain, many homeowners construct tiered or low retaining walls to work around the gradient features of the land. These walls help contain soil and make the land more usable. But apart from being functional, a well-designed retaining wall can also be the focal point of your landscaping. Below are some key benefits to having this type of hardscaping on your property.

Why Should You Install a Retaining Wall?

1. Provide Structural Support

More than anything else, retaining walls are used to hold soil in place and provide stability to a sloped landscape. They act as solid barriers to prevent the ground from moving downwards during a landslide or runoff, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding properties or structures.

2. Prevent Erosion & Flooding

Erosion, either due to wind or water, naturally occurs in any landscape. With retaining walls in place, slopes are reduced to relatively flat surfaces through a method called terracing. This lessens the speed at which water can travel downwards, allowing more of it to soak into the ground. If the land doesn’t absorb enough water, the runoff can pool at the base of a slope, which erodes the soil and causes sinkholes to form. Besides erosion, a retaining wall can also provide effective flood control through a series of channels and drainage pipes built during its construction.

3. Elevate Garden Space

As a highly visible element of a home’s exterior, most retaining walls are made to be aesthetically pleasing. With terracing, you can install a tiered garden to your property that enables you to showcase more plants. Retaining walls also make your yard more functional by creating more outdoor living space, such as areas for a patio or swimming pool. In addition, they create a barrier that discourages guests from walking on areas of your property that you want to keep pristine and free of foot traffic.

A retaining wall is a smart addition to homes located on slopes and uneven ground. If you want to construct one on your property, contact Kepa Masonry & Landscaping in Mililani, HI. As a top-notch landscaping contractor, they have provided excellent hardscaping and landscape design to numerous residents throughout Oahu. Call (808) 345-3876 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their services. To view examples of their past workmanship, like them on Facebook.