Retaining walls earned their name because they're designed for retaining soil. When you build a wall of this type into a slope, it'll hold the earth securely in place. If your yard is angled, learn more about these structures to determine if they're right for your property.

How Are Retaining Walls Made?

There are different types of wall construction, and you'll choose yours depending on the level of slope and height of your wall. A basic retaining wall is made with stacked pavers or bricks and doesn't require any fortification. This style is only recommended for walls under four feet tall and with minimal drainage needs.

If you're building a taller wall or a series of short walls for a steeper slope, your wall needs structural support. This will ensure proper drainage and protect the wall from collapsing under the force of gravity, erosion, and hydrostatic pressure from underground moisture. Your hardscaping team will dig into the slope so they have a vertical surface to work with. They'll then lay a base of compacted gravel, and backfill the wall with gravel as they build it for effective drainage. Finally, they'll lean the wall slightly back into the slope to add resistance against the downhill pressure.

What Are the Benefits?

Retaining walls are installed by professional landscape contractors and used for many reasons, as they offer a wide range of benefits. First, the wall will prevent erosion from occurring. By holding the soil in place and ensuring safe drainage, you'll avoid a landslide. It also prevents flooding of surface runoff, which protects your landscaping and any property at the slope's base.

A wall can also be an attractive feature in your yard, as they're made with a variety of materials, such as natural stone and decorative pavers. Finally, it'll add more functional space to your yard by allowing you to level out the area at the base so you can install a lawn, garden, or patio.

Landscape Solutions & Design Inc. in Greensboro, NC, will design and build you a strong and durable retaining wall. They also offer a full range of landscaping design, building, and maintenance services to make the most of your outdoor space. See some of their work online, and call (336) 442-0160 for a consultation.