Backyard retaining walls have become a common and necessary way for homeowners to develop and make the best use of their valuable land.
Contractors and developers use segmental retaining walls (SRWs) to improve properties efficiently. They use SRWs to build raised gardens, create more functional space, or simply enhance the landscape.
Concrete block retaining walls like CornerStone 100, StoneLedge, and StoneVista can make a major visual and value-based impact. And best of all, you don’t have to be a professional contractor to build them.
These retaining wall blocks are DIY-friendly, with helpful step-by-step installation guides available. These blocks will help you achieve a relaxing outdoor oasis, carve out more room for the kids to play, and upgrade your backyard.
Why Build Retaining Walls for Backyards
The purpose and need for backyard retaining walls vary depending on the project, soils, and challenges involved. Most are built to increase usable space or add property value. But these concrete walls can also be a new element to enrich the yard’s natural scenery.
The straightforward, user-friendly installation of SRW concrete blocks allows DIYers to build their own wall. But trusted professional contractors are always an option to streamline construction, too.
Envision and Build Gorgeous Backyard Retaining Walls
Before your shovel hits the ground, be sure to check local regulations and building codes. These often differ by county, state, province, or country. By checking local building codes, you can be aware of any construction permits or restrictions that must be followed.
Wall systems taller than three feet (0.91 m.) should also be approved by an engineer. This is to ensure the structure is safe and adequately designed for its intended use.
These backyard retaining wall applications can help build a comfortable atmosphere. Here are its benefits:
- More Lawn Space for Kids & Pets to Play
- Terraced Gardens and Flowerbeds
- Leveling Land for Raised Patios
Extending Play Areas for Kids and Pets
The ultimate goal of creating more space in your backyard is usually to make more room. This is so the kids can kick around a soccer ball. More yard space also means pets can roam around and burn off energy.
In both cases, cut and fill techniques with retaining walls are ideal solutions. It’s the perfect way to expand your yard and get closer to property lines.
Cut and fill techniques effectively neutralize hills and sloped properties. This creates level terrain above and below the retaining wall.
Cut designs require excavation to remove earth and build a retaining wall. Doing so allows you to use the space in front of the concrete wall. On the other hand, fill designs result in a level surface and usable area above the wall.
Each process offers the same benefit in the end. They both convert unworkable inclines into fortified, level ground that you can further develop.
To prevent soccer balls from ending up on the neighbor’s lawn and pets from wandering too far, fences or gates are a wise addition.
Fences are typically installed three feet (0.9 m.) behind retaining walls. But the hollow core block design of systems like CornerStone 100 allows landowners to install posts directly into the block. This ensures the fence will not take away from your new, pristine backyard space!
Replacing Steep Hillsides with Terraced Gardens
An infusion of terraced trees, shrubs, and flowers into your hillside can be a charming feature for your yard. It adds a fresh landscaped feel while maintaining natural greenery.
Known as terraced or tiered retaining walls, planter designs can break up tall unpleasant-looking walls into multiple levels. As such, these can bring your yard to life. These terraces are also the perfect area to plant your vegetable gardens.
Terraced retaining walls often become a prime focal point of properties. For one, they’re a creative solution with remarkable potential. They offer better protection against soil erosion. They also afford homeowners sustainable benefits by reducing heat island effects.
Throw in some natural stone or pebbles, and you’ll have a wall that blends perfectly with your outdoor terrain. What better way to instill jaw-dropping beauty and greener retaining wall solutions into your backyard?
Building Raised Patios to Create Lively Outdoor Spaces
Unlevel backyard terrain can be a nuisance. This is especially true when you jolt up and down in lawn chairs or struggle to find the right place for planter pots.
Installing a raised patio is a tasteful and creative way to overcome these annoyances. It also revitalizes your property.
Concrete blocks and backfill materials can easily transition base elevation changes. It will allow you to create a gracefully flat plain for outdoor enjoyment instead of bumpy, uneven ground.
CornerStone 100 retaining wall blocks combine versatility, efficient installation, and proper drainage. These make it easy to build a raised patio along your house or garage with walk-out access. Atop the patio, paver stones look fantastic. Or you can also add crushed gravel along the surface.
Toss your barbecue, fire pit, and lounge chairs across the patio. This will give your backyard a refreshingly new persona.
Stunning and Durable Retaining Wall Designs
Looking for more inspirational wall ideas? Check out CornerStone Wall Solutions’ photo galleries. Or we can connect you with your local block supplier today.
With the right retaining wall system to match your vision, CornerStone walls can turn your backyard into the property of your dreams!
Photos: LibertyStone Hardscaping Systems, Boxley Hardscapes, Mutual Materials, York Building Products & All-Pro Earthworks.