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Retaining Wall Contractor in Calgary
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Retaining walls keep soil, rocks, and other materials in place, preventing erosion and land movement. They are a great addition to of many landscape designs, providing stability to sloped terrain, protecting against soil erosion and creating level ground for more usable areas.
There are several types of retaining walls: precast retaining wall blocks, natural rock retaining wall stones, garden retaining walls, and wood retaining walls.
Precast Retaining Wall Blocks
Precast retaining wall blocks are made of concrete and are designed to interlock to form a strong and long-lasting retaining wall. These blocks are manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for greater flexibility in designing the retaining wall to meet specific requirements. The blocks can be arranged in various patterns to produce various textures and appearances.
The ease of installation is one of the most significant benefits of precast retaining wall blocks. The blocks’ interlocking design makes installation simple, and they can be assembled quickly without the use of any special equipment or tools.
Furthermore, because precast retaining wall blocks are resistant to weathering, they require little maintenance over their lifetime.
Boulder Retaining Wall Installation
Natural rock retaining wall stones are a popular retaining wall material. They have a natural, rustic look and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Natural rock retaining wall stones are quarried from the earth, giving them a distinct character and texture that cannot be duplicated.
The durability of natural rock retaining wall stones is one of their most significant advantages. They are weather resistant and can withstand significant weight and pressure. Furthermore, because they are natural, they blend in with the surrounding landscape, giving it a more cohesive and natural appearance.
Natural rock retaining wall stones can be difficult to install due to their weight and irregular shape, necessitating specialized equipment and professional installation. They are quarried from the earth and in turn can are usually more cost when compared to other types of retaining wall materials.
Garden Walls
Garden retaining walls are used to create raised garden beds, resulting in a more visually appealing and functional landscape. They are typically constructed of a variety of materials such as natural stone, brick, and concrete blocks.
Garden retaining walls can be used to create a wide range of designs, from simple functional structures to elaborate ornamental features.
The ability of garden retaining walls to create a more visually appealing landscape is one of their most significant advantages. They can be used to add depth and interest to the garden by creating levels, terraces, and focal points.
Garden retaining walls can also serve a practical purpose by allowing for better drainage and soil quality.
There are some drawbacks to using garden retaining walls. They are mostly designed for aesthetics and may not be as strong or long-lasting as other types of retaining walls.
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Wood Retaining Walls
Wood retaining walls are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a more natural and rustic look. They are typically made of pressure-treated wood, which is rot and decay resistant. Wood retaining walls come in a variety of styles, such as horizontal and vertical planks and logs.
The versatility of wood retaining walls is one of their most significant advantages. They can be made to fit into a wide range of landscapes and styles, from rustic to modern. Furthermore, wood retaining walls are relatively simple to construct and do not require specialised equipment or professional installation.
The drawbacks to using wood for retaining walls is the wood may warp, rot, or become infested with insects over time, compromising the retaining wall’s stability.
Wood is a natural material and it requires more upkeep than other types of retaining walls. To protect the wood from the elements it is recommended to apply a linseed oil to help provide longevity.
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Consider the specific needs and requirements of your landscape when selecting retaining wall landscaping materials. The slope of the terrain, the weight and pressure that the retaining wall must withstand, and the overall aesthetic of the landscape are all factors to consider.
As a professional landscaper and retaining wall contractor we will assist you in determining the best design and materials for your project.
Retaining Wall FAQs
Retaining Wall Installation FAQs for Calgary Homeowners
How high can a retaining wall be in Calgary before it needs engineering?
Retaining walls above certain heights typically require engineered design to ensure stability and safety. In Calgary, height limits are influenced by soil conditions, drainage, and applied loads. Engineering requirements are confirmed based on wall height, location, and site specific conditions.
Do retaining walls need drainage?
Yes, proper drainage behind a retaining wall is essential to reduce pressure buildup that can cause movement or failure. Calgary’s snowmelt and seasonal runoff make drainage design especially important. Drainage solutions are tailored to soil type and site conditions.
Why do Retaining Walls Fail?
Retaining walls typically fail due to inadequate drainage, insufficient footing depth, poor compaction, or lack of reinforcement. Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles and variable soils increase these risks. Most failures are the result of shortcuts taken during design or installation.
How deep should a retaining wall footing be?
Footing depth must be sufficient to prevent frost movement and support the weight of the wall. In Calgary, frost depth and soil conditions require deeper footings than in milder regions. Exact footing requirements depend on wall height and site specific factors.
Can you build a retaining wall on top of another wall?
In some cases, stacked or tiered retaining walls can be built when designed correctly. Load transfer, drainage, and reinforcement must be addressed to avoid structural failure. Whether this is possible depends on wall heights, spacing, and soil conditions.
What materials are best for retaining walls in Calgary?
Common retaining wall materials include segmental concrete blocks, natural stone, and reinforced systems. Each material performs differently in freeze-thaw conditions and varying soil types. Material selection is based on structural needs, aesthetics, and exposure.
What is geogrid and do retaining walls need it?
Geogrid is a soil reinforcement used behind retaining walls to improve stability. In Calgary, geogrid is often required for taller walls or those supporting additional loads. Its use is determined by wall height, soil type, and design requirements.
Can a retaining wall be built on a slope?
Yes, retaining walls are commonly used to manage sloped properties by creating level areas and preventing erosion. Sloped sites may require stepped or reinforced wall systems. Final design is based on slope angle, soil stability, and drainage paths.
Do you need a permit for a retaining wall in Calgary?
Permits may be required depending on wall height, location, and impact on grading or drainage. Calgary’s permit requirements vary by project scope. Permit needs are verified during the planning phase of the project.
How long do retaining walls last?
A properly designed and constructed retaining wall can last several decades with minimal maintenance. Longevity depends on materials, drainage quality, soil conditions, and exposure. Routine inspections help identify movement early.
What maintenance do retaining walls require?
Retaining wall maintenance typically involves checking drainage outlets, monitoring movement, and clearing debris. Calgary’s seasonal changes can affect soil and water flow over time. Maintenance needs vary based on wall design and materials used.