A retaining wall is an important part of landscaping that can help maintain it when there are hills or if it has steepness. The retaining wall helps to keep the features of the property in place.It also helps keep erosion at bay and redirect any water that may be present. However, if a retaining wall fails, it will be from the result of it being poorly built. It also could fail when other issues are at play such as the following.
Weep Holes Become Clogged
Because of a retaining wall being placed along sloping terrain, the water that comes in contact with it needs to eventually drain. Having weep holes allows the water to drain properly. However, the weep holes also need to have filters added so that debris does not clog the holes.
The Backfill is Designed Poorly
When you have a retaining wall, it needs to include a backfill that is designed properly as the retaining wall is created. When the material is proper, it will permit water to drain out through the weep holes. This also prevents pressure from building up behind the retaining wall as drainage takes place.
In order to work, the retaining wall needs to be carefully installed with size in mind, the land’s slope, and determine if any other factors are needed in order to be sure that the backfill is correct. If the material is not right, then you can expect your retaining wall to fail.
The Retaining Wall Has Excess Pressure
Besides the retaining wall being just the bricks and pavers looking nice, it must be able to handle a huge amount of weight placed behind it. This weight can also cause some pressure to develop and if the moisture is wet, the pressure can grow.
When the retaining wall does not have the correct material, design, or size, you will have a poor retaining wall that will collapse as soon as a little pressure builds.
Material that is Superior
When you use dirt for the backfill, it may need to be replaced with a superior material that allows proper drainage. The material needs to drain well so that the backfill does not become muddy. Besides the mud, there may be other mistakes made such as using joints that are vertical instead of horizontal. Or, there may not be any reinforcements placed in order to maintain a secure wall.
Keep Your Retaining Wall Strong
When your retaining wall is strong and durable, it is able to provide the highest amount of retaining ability for your landscaping. Your retaining wall will also not fail when the right material is used. In order to find out more, get in touch with us today.
