Hardscapes - Retaining Wall Design
About Retaining Wall Designs
Introduction
A retaining wall is defined as a structure which supports earth from other structures or creates a barrier between two places for a purpose. One major purpose is to prevent erosion to soil as the wall acts like a guard. Other reasons why retaining walls are used include:
- Tame sloped land
- Vertical grade changes
- Decorative landscaping features
- Protection for homes and properties
- Fencing around gardens
- Visual Appeal
- Land Usage
Retaining walls are made of a wide variety of materials which include: masonry stone, brick, natural stone, concrete, pre cast concrete, stone and cast stone. The materials used to construct the wall are generally in a block form. These blocks come in a wide range of styles, shapes and colors to suit your design requirements. Design retaining wall is a simple do it yourself project which most homeowners would be able to achieve. The major task is preparation and designing which should always be carefully considered otherwise a professional should be consulted. Purpose of a Retaining Wall
The first step to building and designing a retaining wall is to really consider the purpose of the wall this will definitely help design retaining wall easily. If your property is sloped and you need to tame the slope and stabilize the area then you will need to use a sturdy, durable and hard wearing material and even some concrete reinforcement to help further the stabilization of both the wall and soil. Determining the purpose of a decorative retaining wall is simple and easy. This type of application is relatively easy and can be completed in a weekend depending on the size of the wall. Retaining walls which are being installed because of erosion issues will also need to be determined effectively so that the right materials and necessary installation equipment are close by and ready to be used. Most retaining wall specialists can help homeowners with any enquires on choosing the right materials for the type of installation. Fully equipped kits are available with all the necessary components.
Design Factors to Consider
All types of retaining walls need to be designed carefully following design factor considerations. This will help to achieve a successful wall with a perfect design. Design factors include the following:
1:Consider choosing a material which already exists somewhere on your property to achieve a blending and complimenting outlook. Sometimes too many different materials can create a busy and unattractive appearance.
2: The height of the wall should only be designed once the purpose of the wall is determined. Smaller decorative retaining walls should only be small and short to achieve a stylish and blending appearance as high decorative walls can look out of place and create a trapped feeling.
3: When designing the retaining wall try not to create too much load bearing pressure on the wall as the wall has enough weight of its own to carry. For Example: try not to place large pots or urns on the retaining wall instead place them around the wall for a delightful outlook.
4: Finish off the wall with retaining wall caps. They will complete the wall and create a neat and finished look.
5: Curves, straight lines, circles and more are all achievable when building retaining walls so it is important to really understand whether the wall is a practical or decorative feature. Always consider the design elements which include: line, shape, texture and form. These design retaining wall elements which help achieve a successful in design retaining wall for practical or ornamental retaining wall applications.
