Highland stone retaining walls are a best option for any person looking for an easy-to-install, strong, and affordable way to add functionality and beauty to their landscape. These walls are made of concrete, which is very strong material. They are also simple to install and they come in a range of styles and colors to match any garden or home.
In addition to their ease of installation and durability, Highland Stone Retaining Walls provide a number of other advantages. They can help to stop erosion, provide support for raised planters or beds, and create security or privacy barriers.
Still, confused about this type of retaining walls? Go through our article for the best understanding.
What Is Highland Stone Retaining Wall?
A highland retaining wall is a solid structure to hold back soil and protects from erosion on sloped areas. Usually, such a type of wall is built on high land or hillsides and helps to support the soil to hold the ground. Again, this retaining wall protects the soil from collapsing or sliding.
Moreover, the retaining wall is made of concrete, brick, or stone and uses for various purposes. Creating a level surface for the building, preventing soil erosion, and creating a fantastic feature in a landscape is the main purpose of building such type of retaining wall.
On top of that, we suggest hiring a professional engineer or contractor to get an effective retaining wall on the highland.
How To Build A Highland Retaining Wall
To build a retaining wall accurately, you must take steps to fulfill the work, like deciding the height and length, layout planning, excavating the selected area, building the base, and installing the drainage system. Let’s have a look at the steps in detail.
Decide The Height And Length Of The Wall
Before starting the project, take the proper measurement of the height and length of the area. As a result, you can get a clear idea of the number of materials.
Plan The Layout
It is an essential part of starting any constructive work. Plane the layout of the wall with a string and stakes. As a result, you will see the visual design and create the adjustments before starting the work.
Excavate The Area Of The Wall
Select the area where you want to build the wall. Then excavate the site and ensure the excavation is deep enough.
Build The Base Of The Wall
The base is an essential part of any construction. Hence, Build A strong base for the wall and use gravel, concrete or crushed stone. The base floor should be at least twice as wide and spread below the area’s frost line.
Build The First Course
Get the first course right and level each block equally. Use a 4 to 6-foot level to equal the course level. Set the blocks with a plastic mallet and heavy rubber. It is essential to get the first course, so do the work carefully.
Install Drainage
Once you complete the first course of the wall and the rows are stacked, backfill it to match the grade height of the wall. After that, lay down the perforated drain tile on the rock and install a drain grate every 25 to 50 feet. Then, cut one block down to adjust the drain grate.
Build Next Courses
Continue the following courses of the wall and ensure each course is level. Also, make sure they arrived at the previous course with adhesive or pins.
Complete The top
Finally, finish the top part of the wall with a good finish. Once the retaining wall is completed, decorate it with color coating.
What Stone Is Better For A Retaining Wall?
Three types of stone are better for retaining walls: poured concrete, concrete blocks, and dry stacks. These stones are very effective in making a solid wall. Besides, such types of stones bring a different look to the yard. Again, brick, dry boulder, gabion, and wood are the other alternative to stone.
How Long Do Stone Retaining Walls Last?
Generally, a stone retaining wall lasts between 40 to 100 years. Some wood walls last around 40 to 50 years. On the other hand, concrete and stone retaining walls last between 50 to 100 years long. Again, brick walls last about 100 years. In fact, the longevity of the retaining wall depends on its construction and materials. That means building your retaining wall with proper planning and quality materials will last long.
Final Words
We are at the end of our detailed guide. We tried to add all the information about that type of retaining wall. Hopefully, this article will help you a lot. This retaining wall not only holds back the soil but also gives an aesthetic appeal to the ground.
Moreover, a stone retaining wall increases the property value by providing a functional and visually attractive landscape. Also, this wall is durable and long-lasting. So, build a highland stone retaining wall to protect your ground and add value to your landscape.