Worried About Floods? 4 Steps To Take When Building A Retaining Wall

If your new home is built in a flood zone, you'll need to add a retaining wall to your landscape design. A properly built retaining wall will help reduce flood damage on your property. Before you get started on your retaining wall, there are a few things you should take into consideration. Here are four steps that will help you receive the maximum benefit from your concrete retaining wall.

Make It Part of the Design

When creating a retaining wall for your yard, you need to think beyond the basic function of the project. While the purpose of the retaining wall is to keep flood water out and prevent soil erosion, it can also be drawn into the entertainment function of the yard. For instance, a retaining wall can provide the perfect backdrop for the family fire pit or outdoor kitchen. Add depth to your yard by utilizing the retaining wall in your landscaping design.

Give it a Firm Foundation

Every good retaining wall begins with a firm foundation. Before you start building your wall, make sure you have the foundation down pat. Begin by digging out the area where the wall will be built. Level the soil and then place a layer of gravel down. Use a metal rake to level the gravel base. Once the gravel is in place, you can begin laying your concrete blocks for the wall.

Fill it Up

Once you have your wall built, you'll need to ensure that they're sturdy enough to hold back the floods and the soil. You can do that by filling the spaces inside and around the blocks with gravel. The gravel will provide stability and strength to your retaining wall.

Don't Forget About the Drainage

After you have the retaining wall built, you'll want to ensure that you have adequate drainage. The best way to do this is with a French drain. Dig a shallow trench along the back side of the retaining wall. Fill the bottom with gravel. Place a perforated drain pipe inside the trench. Be sure it's long enough to stretch the entire length of the retaining wall. Cover the drainage pipe with soil. The perforation will allow the water to slowly seep into the soil as it empties.

If your home is in a flood zone, make sure you add a retaining wall to your landscape designs. Use the suggestions provided here to create a retaining wall that will add form and function to your yard. For more information, contact local professionals like Classy Corners LLC.

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