What is the longest lasting retaining wall?
Poured Concrete Poured concrete retaining walls are the strongest and most durable option available. Poured concrete is the cheapest type of retaining wall, in terms of materials. Pressure-treated pine is next, and wood retaining walls are becoming more popular now. If you prefer stone, granite is generally the least expensive option.
What is the easiest type of retaining wall to build?
Gravity walls are the simplest type of retaining wall. They rely on their own weight and mass to hold back soil pressure. These walls are typically up to 3 feet tall. Gravity walls don’t require additional reinforcement, making them ideal for smaller projects and DIY enthusiasts. To relieve some of this pressure, your retaining wall needs proper drainage. Plan to backfill the wall with well-draining gravel or sand. Higher walls or areas with soil that stays wet may need a drainage pipe. Keep in mind that clay soil retains water and sandy soil drains too easily.
What is the most economical retaining wall?
Poured concrete is the cheapest type of retaining wall, in terms of materials. Pressure-treated pine is next, and wood retaining walls are becoming more popular now. If you prefer stone, granite is generally the least expensive option. Before building the retaining wall, lay a 6-inch layer of drainage gravel as a base course. The crushed stone base allows for proper drainage behind the wall. Compact the gravel with a mechanical compactor in 2-inch layers. Level and smooth the gravel before setting the first course of blocks.
How many years do retaining walls last?
How long do retaining walls typically last? Retaining walls can last significantly longer if constructed with durable materials; for instance, well-built concrete walls may exceed 100 years, while timber walls generally range from 15 to 30 years. Depending on the material, soil, and groundwater, a permanent retaining wall can last anywhere from 25 to 100 years. However, consider the material used to build a retaining wall and any necessary maintenance for the structure’s longevity and performance.
What is an alternative to a retaining wall?
Alternatives to retaining walls with slope grading, riprap, anchored walls, vegetation, erosion control mats, and piling systems. At the base of a retaining wall, plants can effectively screen and soften the appearance of the wall. Bushy or tall plants can obscure the structure, creating a more natural look and blending it seamlessly into the landscape.