Construction & Contractors Blog
A retaining wall is a structure made from rocks that adds interest, depth, and structure to a lawn. It is usually about 3 feet tall—however it can be smaller—and is used to highlight low and high points of the yard; however, it can also be used to create a tiered effect.
Retaining walls have several uses—and benefits, too. But they are tricky, because without proper drainage the lawn can easily become a huge mess.
If you are planning to install a retaining wall in your lawn, make sure you use these three ways to ensure proper drainage:
1. Use Drain Tile
Drain tiles are special tiles made of clay that help absorb excess water in the lawn. However, the tiles may also be made of PVC piping—depending on the type you choose. Although their main function is to absorb water, they can also be used to transport excess water to other parts of the lawn.
If you want to install an exterior drain tile yourself, dig a trench that is at least 1 foot in depth. Lay half of the trench with small gravel, set the tile on top of the gravel, and fill in the hole with soil.
2. Use Aggregate to Backfill
If you are constructing a hill—or simply need to dig up the hill—be sure to add layers of aggregate when filling the soil back in. The small gravel will allow the water to absorb quicker into the lawn, which will prevent flooding. It will also prevent the retaining wall from becoming compromised due to pressure, water, or other issues.
You can also add backfill when constructing the wall. During construction of the retaining wall, alternate aggregate with soil, usually 6-inches at a time.
3. Add Horizontal Holes
It is also a good idea to add horizontal holes in the earth surrounding the retaining walls. These holes help the ground to absorb excess water. It also helps the retaining wall maintain its strength. Usually constructed of PVC pipe and rocks, these holes are small and easy to create.
Cut a pipe that is about 1 1/2-inch in diameter to 3-feet in length. Use as many as is needed for your retaining wall. Depending on the size of the wall, you may need as little as 4 or as many as 10. Ideally, these holes will be placed every 4 feet surrounding the wall. Dig a small trench, lay 2-inches of small rocks, lay the pipe, and cover with soil.
These options all work well alone—or together—to improve the drainage of a retaining wall. Many of these options can be done yourself; however, it is usually a good idea to call a professional, such as Rite-Way Waterproofing, for help.
Share25 November 2014
My name is Debbie Greenberg. I’m a single woman who owns her home, and like most homeowners I dread home repairs. I’m not very handy with do-it-yourself projects around the house. I can do a few minor repairs when necessary, but for the most part I have to call in a professional. Last year I had a leak in my roof. When it rained, water would leak into my kitchen. What appeared to be a simple fix turned out to be anything but simple. It took over four months to finally identify the problem, and double the money I was initially quoted to fix it. The problem ended up being that the flat part of my roof didn't have shingles, but a sheeting material. I learned a bit about home roofs along the way, and that is what I want to share with you.
