Retaining Wall Ideas: Wood, Stone & Concrete

A high-quality retaining wall will completely transform your space, both in terms of looks and functionality. While a retaining wall’s primary purpose is to hold back water in sloped areas and prevent soil erosion, it can also be a beautiful addition to your yard. Or, you may want to join the increasing number of homeowners who opt to build a retaining wall purely for decoration! Either way, you can find your perfect retaining wall with just a little research.

Opt for the Right Materials

At the start, focus on choosing the most suitable materials for your needs. Stone and concrete are the two most popular options — they’re versatile and allow for creativity in terms of design, all while being sturdy and durable. Wood, on the other hand, is the most cost-efficient option. It’s quick and easy to build a wooden retaining wall, it suits most properties, and it lends itself to a warm, rustic appearance. However, it’s essential to only use durable wood that can withstand the weight of the soil.

You can’t seem to choose? In that case, you may want to combine the strengths of concrete with the charm of natural materials. Opt for concrete ties that resemble the look of wood for a durable yet aesthetically-pleasing solution. Or, maybe you would prefer incorporating faux stones — concrete blocks that look just like natural stones. 

Try on a Layered Look

If you’re working with a sloped backyard, layering the walls could be a good option. This means building a set of several stacked walls, each higher than the one underneath. These tiers can break up the slope and can be a beautiful, artistic way to incorporate additional flower areas. On top of that, spice up the design and add some accessibility by incorporating a suitable set of stairs.

Combine the Wall with Other Features

Don’t think of your retaining wall as a separate entity, but as a harmonious part of your property. You can match it to other features, such as a fountain or garden décor to give your yard a consistent, put-together look.

Experiment with Colors

Color is a highly underutilized tool in retaining walls. You can easily liven up a wooden retaining wall with some paint and a good design idea. Or, a color-blocking concrete wall may be more up your street. Today’s materials offer a ton of possibilities for colorful and exciting designs, so don’t feel pressured to stick to conservative, neutral designs.

Retaining walls don’t need to be boring — on the contrary, they’re a great way to add some character and functionality to your yard. With all of the options you have, you’re sure to be able to make the most out of your space.

Reach out to our team of experts to get started on your retaining wall project today! We will help you every step of the way!