Best Materials for Retaining Walls

by | Nov 19, 2012 | Landscaping Outdoor Decorating

BODY: When you decide to build one or more retaining walls in your yard, you might think your decisions are over. However, retaining walls can be built using a number of different materials. You will want to closely examine the materials on the market in order to decide which is best for your particular needs. Materials vary in color, size, and even function. You will want to choose retaining wall materials that not only fit into your landscape design, but also function in the manner in which you need.

Concrete blocks are popular materials for retaining walls. Concrete block walls look modern and sophisticated and they are relatively easy and fast to assemble. All you have to do is stack the blocks and secure them with pins. Some of them even come with interlocking edges, a making the retaining walls even easier. They usually need to sit on a gravel base and they move with the ground and remain strong. They come in a variety of sizes. The smallest size, known as the garden wall size, is the most common. These blocks work best for accent walls and should not go higher than 30 inches. They are only about 25 pounds each, making them easier to install. The larger blocks can weigh anywhere from 50-75 pounds and they can be used for walls up to 30 feet tall. Some homeowners think that concrete block walls look commercial and too cold, but there are a variety of textures, shapes, and colors from which to choose on today’s’ market. Blocks can fit in with a variety of home and garden styles and designs.

Natural stone has also become quite popular over the years. Rubble walls look natural and haphazard, but they are actually fitted tightly together in a secure manner. Stone makes some of the nicest looking walls and there are many different choices that can fit in with any home or garden. Stone is usually more expensive in terms of materials for retaining walls and they also take more time and skill to build.

Wood walls are starting to fade in their popularity, but they can still complement certain homes and yards. If you want a rustic look in your landscaping design, wood is a good option. You can use standard lumber or even timber or railroad ties and you can easily use a number of different angles or even steps in your retaining walls.

Before you make your final decision, you might want to bring a few of the materials home to see what they look like against your house and with the rest of your landscaping. Visualize how they would look when they are multiplied and you might be able to decide with more ease and confidence.

Retaining Walls Arroyo Grande – When you are about to embark on a landscaping project like retaining walls, visit Troesh Supply Company, Inc. online for materials, tips, and professional help.

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