What makes a retaining wall strong and durable?
Though retaining walls keep the soil in check, soil itself works against the wall over time. Water, freezing temperatures, and slopes apply pressure, which is why retaining walls in Saskatoon have to be built with more in mind than just good looks. Walls that look flawless upon installation might bend or tilt if not enough thought was put into the soil surrounding and underneath the wall.
First, there is the foundation. Most walls start with a well-compacted base made from granular material, placed lower than the actual blocks to make the first row level. Uneven compaction here means that each successive row will be equally unstable, which becomes particularly important in freeze-thaw conditions, when the moisture locked in improperly prepared soil will expand and move the construction.
Moreover, drainage issues should be kept in mind. Placing crushed clean stones right behind the wall or drainage pipes, if necessary, will contribute to water draining rather than applying pressure to the wall. Taller walls may also need extra reinforcement, and some projects require engineered designs and permits, so it is better to settle those questions beforehand.
Furthermore, material selection and design are significant elements of the construction process. Interlocking concrete blocks are commonly used for residential yards in Saskatoon because they adapt well to different designs. It is possible to make curved walls, terraces, and planting areas to soften the slope and to provide a flat surface for planting vegetation and sitting; low and stepped walls can be made to disperse the pressure instead of accumulating it in one large retaining wall.
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