Let’s start with the definition of a retaining wall. A retaining wall can be loosely defined as any exterior wall that is used to hold soil in place. A retaining wall may consist of a horizontal layer of brick, stone, or wood used to level land on a slope for planting vegetables or flowers. Another retaining wall may need to retain tons of soil to prevent erosion. When choosing the services of a professional retaining wall builder, there are many things you need to know.

Planning your retaining wall

How tall should your wall be? What would be the best materials to use? Is the wall primarily decorative or does it serve a specific purpose? You won’t know the answers to these questions until you get out there and take a closer look.

It goes without saying that you have selected a spot for the wall. Knowing the shape and approximate length of the retaining wall will tell your installer several important things; will help you with suggestions for the right materials. A professional installer can help by creating a visual image with a stick, rope, or stakes.

The height of the wall of your property is a very important consideration. Huge forces (ie tons of soil) act against retaining walls. Your wall will need to be able to withstand these forces and have adequate drainage to ensure that the added weight of water does not cause the wall to collapse.

Once your contractor understands your goals for the appearance, height, and length of the proposed wall, they will know how much material will be needed.

A reputable contractor will have no problem providing you with the following information. If the contractor can’t provide these items, you may need to keep looking.

• business license
• Deposit (if the city requires it)
• Insurance: A certificate of insurance will be sent directly from the contractor’s agent (general liability, workers’ compensation, etc.)
• Project Permit (if required based on your city/county code)
• Engineering Design (if required by your city/county code, typically when a wall is over four feet tall)
• Location of utilities (to ensure the safety of underground utilities, occurs several days before the project begins)

Choice of materials for retaining walls

Some of the more popular retaining wall materials include:

Concrete: Always in style, ask your contractor about cinder block wall systems. Stone faced concrete may be another option to consider.

stone faced concrete: These have the same pros and cons as concrete. They take a bit longer to build; the concrete must be poured and allowed to set before the construction of the stone veneer. When finished, your wall will look like stone through and through.

precast stackable block: Stackable concrete block provides the same elegance as pavers with a uniform look and the symmetry of blocks of the same size and finish. These walls are relatively easy to build and are great when curves are required.

Brig: Brick is a good option, but for best results, hire an experienced mason who has experience building retaining walls.

Stone: Stone can come in many types, colors and can be natural or cut. They offer the same advantages as brick and must be properly designed to include proper drainage to prevent cracking.

Boulders: A wonderful addition to a colonial or mid-century garden. Multi-tonne boulders will require the hiring of heavy equipment.

natural stone: Stone can come in many types, colors and can be natural or cut. It fits beautifully with the architecture of Bergen County houses.

wood: Railroad ties, treated pine, and some hardwoods are suitable for retaining walls. In the right environment, a wooden wall can dazzle. However, wood may not be your best long-term solution, as all wood is subject to decay over time. If you choose wood, make sure the wood is treated so it won’t rot.

Construction methods will vary depending on the materials you choose. If you choose wood, for example, your contractor may suggest embedded posts to resist lateral pressure. Choose brick? You will probably need concrete reinforcement and a well-placed drainage system. Don’t risk it. Your professional retaining wall installer will recommend the best course of action.

As with any construction project, do your homework and get quotes for your wall. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals and reviews. Select a contractor, knowing that you have covered everything you need to know. Once you’ve educated yourself on how retaining walls are built and understand what to look for in a contractor, you’ll be ready to add value and beauty to your home with a retaining wall built by a trusted professional.