Landscaping your property is an exciting time.
It’s an opportunity to create an outside space some homeowners can only hope for. Every detail from the flowers planted to the paved areas come together to create a truly beautiful scene.
While exploring your landscaping options, retaining wall systems are likely to come up in conversation. These are paved paths and walls you can add around your yard.
They look lovely, but their functional purposes are of even bigger benefit.
Here’s a brief explanation of what these systems are and what they can do for your home.
WHAT ARE RETAINING WALL SYSTEMS?
Retaining walls are strategically placed systems used to support the land and hold soil in place.
If you have hills, slopes, or other inclines on your property, you may need this landscaping tactic to prevent erosion.
Without it, you leave your lawn at risk of creating a dangerous problem. The area can easily become unstable. This may damage the design you’ve worked hard to achieve, and, at times, can cause you physical harm.
Slopes also create problems with water runoff. Installing a retaining wall can solve this by slowing the flow of rainwater on your property.
Some homes sit on the top of some large inclines as well. In this case, it is best to have retaining walls at the base of the mound, typically where your property meets the street or sidewalk.
These walls can be as short as a few feet or taller than the average person, depending on the needs of the property.
Either way, they are like insurance to preserve the beauty and safety of the space you want to create.
THE BENEFITS OF ADDING A RETAINING WALL
Beyond protection against erosion, retaining wall systems offer more benefits to your home.
Many realtors and property appraisers will see a retaining wall as a valid investment in your home. This potentially raises your home value if you ever decide to sell it or take out a home equity loan.
As you plan your landscaping, try to incorporate the wall to feel like it belongs there. This will help you make the most use of your land, or create special spaces like a small garden area.
Some homeowners use them around their pool area or as a walkway leading up their front door. You can even create a little privacy with a retaining wall, too.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS
Once you’ve established a need for a retaining wall, you can start choosing the best materials for your property.
The decision comes down to two things: the aesthetics you want to accomplish and the shape of the wall.
Some blocks are easier to curve for rounded spaces or going around corners. Others can fit tight to hold everything in place in a straight line.
There are many shapes, textures, and colors available to choose from as well.
SCHEDULE AN ESTIMATE
Is there an elevated space on your property you want to access or secure?
A retaining wall can help you accomplish this with ease, while making your yard more beautiful, too.
For more information on what works for you and how much it will cost, schedule an estimate today.