Stone Retaining Walls Combine Functionality
and Beauty

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If you have a large yard that you are interested in landscaping you might want to consider adding a stone retaining wall. This type of wall is interesting because it is held together by friction and the weight of the stones rather than by mortar like other typical retaining walls.

Having a retaining wall is essential if you have a large slope in your yard or if it is unusually hilly. Otherwise, growing plants and flowers could be downright impossible. Erecting a retaining wall by yourself is possible but it is an arduous task. Unless you are skilled at stonework, you will want to hire a retaining wall contractor to do the work.

What Does a Retaining Wall Do?

A retaining wall’s main function is to hold back materials such as rock, soil or water from a building. They assist in the prevention of erosion and provide support for vertical changes in the earth. Basically a retaining wall resists the pressure from whatever material is behind it. However, if your yard is flat you can still put in a retaining wall for purely decorative reasons.

What Materials Should I Choose?

Before you proceed with your retaining wall installation you will have to decide from what material it should be built. You need to be sure that your retaining wall is made from sturdy, strong material. Natural stone is a great option since it is weather resistant, easy to maintain and hard to destroy. Some stone, such as block stone do not need to be set in mortar. One popular stone that can be used for these walls is granite. This material is the best option if you wall is large in size because it can withstand a lot of weight. Limestone is a less expensive alternative to granite. It also comes in a wider variety of colors. However it is significantly weaker and therefore splits easily under heavy weights.

Your Options are Wide Open

One of the nicest aspects of having a stone retaining wall is that your options are limited only by your imagination. You can choose to have your retaining wall be straight or curved or even in a semi-circle. You can have a long wall or a short one. Your wall can have one level or several. The possibilities are endless. If you need help choosing which style you like best, visit the retaining wall photo gallery for EnhanceScape for more ideas.