With many great benefits, a retaining wall can be a versatile solution for many of the problems that could be present in your Troy, MI, landscape. It can also bring an element of creativity to the landscape that might not have been there before. While you consider various landscaping options for a renovation this spring, check out why “landscapers near me” may suggest including a retaining wall in a landscape design.
Protecting from Erosion
Any landscape on a slope is bound to be a little more difficult to utilize fully than a flat or gently undulating landscape. Erosion is expected in raw land; however, erosion can catastrophically damage any finished landscape if a retaining wall isn’t present.
A retaining wall can provide the key to a landscape where soil stays put and water is directed to where it’s supposed to go. A retaining wall will hold everything above it securely. Many residential retaining walls are typically constructed up to 4 feet tall and can be virtually any length. If a taller wall is needed, it will need engineering work and then the choice will be whether to build one tall wall, or a series of terraces; a series of retaining walls can create a terraced system which is much more attractive than a single tall wall.
Increasing Vertical Interest
When a retaining wall cuts across a slope, it creates several design opportunities. The face of the retaining wall and it’s an opportunity to show off the artistry of the masonry and create a backdrop for outdoor living.
The wall can be integrated into an outdoor kitchen or outdoor fireplace. It can also be used to house lighting fixtures and feature built-in seating or water features, making it so much more than just a “wall.”
Increasing Usable Space in the Landscape
A retaining wall can be used to drastically increase the amount of horizontal space. Whether the wall is situated at the base of the slope or somewhere in the middle, it will open up opportunities for better utilization of your landscape. This extra horizontal space can be used for a cozy outdoor dining, an expanded pool and spa, or a much more practical walkway or driveway.
Creating Clear Definitions
An outdoor living space should support the family’s outdoor lifestyle. A wide open paver patio or grassy area may help the space feel expansive, but it can quickly become chaotic or cluttered if everything isn’t kept in order. This is because the various activities will often blend together and soon your dining chairs end up in walkways or next to your pool. A retaining wall can help create clear definitions of space in your backyard. By separating these spaces with a low wall, each space will feel more intentional and less cluttered: much like individual rooms in the home are separated by walls.
Improving Green Space
The capstone on any retaining wall can support various potted plants. If you’re using a terraced system of retaining walls to tame a tall slope, the plants on each terrace are more accessible for gardening. You can even include an automatic drip irrigation system to remove watering from your daily tasks.
Related: Landscaping Companies Suggest These Ideas for a Retaining Wall in Rochester Hills, MI Area
