A retaining wall adds both beauty and function to a home’s landscaping. Whether yours is constructed with rocks, poured concrete, or timbers, they provide a protective barrier against soil erosion. To help keep your retaining wall in top condition, follow these maintenance steps.

4 Maintenance Tips for Preserving a Retaining Wall

1. Fill in Empty Spots

Fill in places where the soil has loosened. Add plants to help fortify soil structure and keep it compact and in place. Additional foliage and roots aid drainage and provide a safeguard against erosion.

2. Repair Cracks & Gaps

Periodically inspect your retaining wall. Look for cracks and gaps in the mortar. Have these imperfections repaired as soon as possible before they become bigger headaches. Bulges, which are a sign of shifting soil, should also be addressed without delay before they worsen. 

3. Avoid Deicing Salt

During the winter, deicing salt applied to roads and highways may damage a retaining wall. Ask a landscaping specialist about options for protecting your wall from deicers. If you’re planning to build a new retaining wall, discuss design choices with your landscaper that will direct melting snow and ice away from the structure. 

4. Eliminate Weeds

A proliferation of weeds can cause long-term damage. Whether manually or through a treatment spray, be vigilant about removing weeds to help prevent discoloration and cracking.

By following a few maintenance tips, you can protect your retaining wall’s durability. For 25 years, Arselli’s Landscape & Design in Chillicothe, OH, has provided impeccable landscaping services to homes throughout the region. The eye-catching designs of this locally owned company emphasize quality and beauty. Working with their team of experienced landscapers will help you achieve both green and hard spaces customized to your preferences. To learn more about retaining wall maintenance, call (740) 775-8177, or visit their website to view their landscape designs.