Retaining walls might seem like an easy thing. They are just blocks stacked up to hold back the earth. If you’ve ever had to deal with a retaining wall that failed, you know it is not that easy. Whether you are a homeowner who likes to do things yourself, or you are hiring someone to do the work, it is a good idea to know what mistakes to avoid during the process. Of course, experienced professionals will know exactly how to avoid these mistakes and provide a long-lasting solution. Here’s our advice:
1. Skipping the Proper Foundation
One of the most fundamental mistakes in retaining wall construction is inadequate foundation preparation. Without a solid, level base, even a beautifully constructed wall will shift, lean, and eventually fail. The foundation needs to be dug to a depth below the frost line (important in climates with freezing winters) and compacted properly. Cutting corners on the foundation is cutting corners on the entire structure.
2. Ignoring Drainage Behind the Wall
Water is the number one enemy of retaining walls. When water accumulates behind a wall with no way to escape, the pressure it creates can push a wall over in a matter of months. Proper drainage typically involves a layer of gravel behind the wall, a perforated drainage pipe at the base, and weep holes built into the wall face to allow water to pass through. Many DIY retaining wall failures come down to this single overlooked element.
3. Using the Wrong Materials for the Conditions
Not all retaining wall blocks are the same. Using the wrong kind for your wall is a big mistake. If you’re looking for retaining wall blocks in Oklahoma City, you need to think about the weather and the kind of soil you have. Oklahoma City has extreme weather so you need to make sure the blocks you use are rated for that. Some blocks look nice, but they are not made for places with really cold winters or heavy clay soil. You should always choose materials that’re right for where you live.
4. Building Too Tall Without Engineering Support
Some people think they can just keep stacking blocks to make their wall as tall as they want, that is not true. If you want to build a wall that’s over a certain height, usually around four feet, you need to get an engineer involved. Taller walls need support and design to be safe. If you build a wall without doing it right, it will probably fall down.
5. Failing to Account for Surcharge Load
Surcharge load refers to any additional weight placed on the soil behind a retaining wall – driveways, structures, vehicles, trees, or anything else that adds pressure. Many homeowners design their retaining walls based purely on the height of soil being retained, without considering what’s behind that soil. A wall that’s adequate for an empty slope may be completely insufficient once a patio, shed, or parking area is added nearby. Always factor in what’s going to be behind and above the wall when designing it.
Retaining walls are an investment in your property, and they deserve to be done right. It’s always easier to work with professionals and save yourself the short-term and long-term hassle!