A common question I see: I have an existing concrete retaining wall that was installed without drainage. How do I add drainage to this wall to keep it from failing? Before we proceed, note that…
A timber retaining wall is a cost effective option for flattening out your property. As we learned in this post, all wood in a timber retaining wall must be pressure treated to UC4A or UC4B…
Wood can be a budget friendly solution for a DIY retaining wall. However, wood is subject to fungal rot, termites, and water damage. When following all of the best recommendations, a wood retaining wall can…
Retaining walls are commonly placed along property lines. Since we all like to maximum our property, you probably want to install the fence as close as possible to the retaining wall. But before you grab…
Retaining walls can create a nice flat area for beautiful landscaping. However, tree roots can reek havoc on any concrete or stone structure. As we have discussed previously, large trees act as a surcharge on…
I just had a patio poured a month ago, and now it has a giant crack! What do I do about this crack in the concrete?!? Fear not. I will let you in on a…
Concrete can make a great patio, driveway, or retaining wall. However, precautions are necessary to avoid unsightly cracks. In this article, we will discuss construction techniques to avoid concrete cracks. Plastic Shrinkage Cracks Wet concrete…
A common question for a retaining wall: what is the best backfill type for my retaining wall? You will find a plethora of answers online. All of them are well intentioned for their particular case….
The foundation of a retaining wall is a key component in the wall’s longevity. A good foundation ensures the wall does not sag or settle. It will ensure the finished wall is level and straight….
It’s rarely one issue that causes a retaining wall to fail. A properly constructed drainage system will typically mask most other common issues. A lack of proper drainage will amplify any other miscues on the…
Water is the major cause of retaining wall failures. Below is a stone wall that failed due to improper drainage behind the wall. The combination of the ground sloping toward the wall, no drainage stone…
In the picture below, there are several issues that will cause long term problems with the performance of this newly constructed retaining wall. As constructed, this wall will deform and the concrete patio behind the…
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