Concrete Retaining Wall
Retaining walls are rigid walls that are used for supporting soil and keeps it retained at different levels. Many residential and commercial properties install a retaining wall as part of a design feature into the landscape. This adds to the property on an aesthetic level while also keeping the risks that the natural form of the landscape poses at bay. Contact San Jose Concrete Pros to discuss how we can make your landscape work for you.
Design considerations
The main purpose of a retaining wall is to hold soil behind it, although each specific need may vary depending on the application designs, such as small retaining walls in a residential garden to massive soil retaining walls along the highway, while other walls' purpose is to control erosion from rain. To begin the design of your retaining wall, you will need to calculate the corresponding wall heights and slopes, as well as the gravity that will cause the material to naturally move downward. This should be counteracted by the design to ensure your wall does not collapse. Perhaps one of the biggest factors to keep in mind when you are choosing the design is the drainage. If your wall has a build-up of water, it could increase the amount of hydrostatic pressure and ultimately lead to wall collapse. We will, of course, factor this into our considerations before the commencement of installation.
How long will my retaining wall last?
A retaining wall can be a key part of hardscape for your landscape or home. As with any investment that you make, it is important to ensure you are knowledgeable on the repairs and maintenance that comes with it, as you will want your retaining wall to last and resist years of weathering. Climate is one of the biggest factors that may affect your retaining wall's lifespan. Harsh weather conditions may cause it to weather faster, though with basic maintenance and upkeep, your retaining wall should last you 50 to 100 years.
Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining your retaining wall is one of the key factors to improve the lifespan. Ensure that you inspect the wall frequently for any signs of cracks or damage that may have occurred, which ensures that you stay on top of the repairs as and when they occur. Proactive repairs will ensure that your hardscape is kept in top condition and will last for many years to come. One of the maintenance tips we suggest is to thoroughly inspect your wall once a year. This will allow you to stay on top of any small cracks or changes so that repairs can be done early. Take notice of any wall movement or settling that might have occurred and ensure that you take care of the landscape surrounding the wall. If you notice any severe cracks or shifting, it is important to contact a professional before any further damage is done.
Choosing the right one
When you are designing or building a retaining wall, there are many factors to keep in mind, irrespective of whether your retaining wall is for commercial or residential use. Depending on the application, you may wonder what kind of retaining wall will work best for you. Before you begin to choose the design, you will need to consider the location and environmental factors that might affect the wall. San Jose Concrete Pros will be able to assist you in the planning and best advise what type of wall, design, and location will fit into your landscape to get the optimal lifespan and use from your retaining wall.
