Retaining walls can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. While some are designed to hold back soil after a change in elevation, others serve as outdoor decor. They’re made of strong materials, but retaining walls won’t last forever. Over time, they can begin to deteriorate and may require a replacement. Learn more about a few signs that mean you need to replace yours.

When to Replace a Retaining Wall

1.Tilting

If your retaining wall looks like it’s about to collapse forward, the foundation may be too weak to support the weight of the surrounding soil. This soil becomes heavier when it accumulates water. Your wall needs a weep hole to drain the water out from behind it after it rains. If you have a drain that isn’t working properly, or the base of the wall is too small for the soil’s weight, you’ll need a replacement.

2. Crumbling 

If you notice the wall crumbling into pieces, there is a problem with the material it’s made of. For instance, if your wall is made of concrete, then the concrete might not have been mixed as well as it should have. In addition, any mortar used in your wall’s construction can begin to deteriorate if it absorbs too much water.

3. Separating

If one section of the wall is separating from its adjacent parts, the culprit could be a weak foundation, poor water drainage, or poor construction. It’s critical that a retaining wall be strong enough to withstand the pressure of the soil packed behind it. Many types of retaining structures require a reinforcement bar made out of steel to keep the wall strong enough.

If you’re looking to replace a retaining wall, contact Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete & Block in Gloversville, NY, for quality materials like Redi-Rock®. With over 40 years of experience, these experts have the materials you need to complete any concrete construction project quickly and efficiently. They will also deliver your order to you. They can even create a custom mixture to meet your specific needs. For more information on their services, visit them online or give them a call at (518) 661-5601.