Retaining walls are necessary on many yard sites. They generally serve the purpose of retaining a high grade to allow for a more level yard. In some cases, you might need a retaining wall installed just to control a basic hillside or erosion of a neighboring structure.
The most common material used for a retaining wall is precast blocking available from many suppliers. The cost and actual structural properties of these blocks have made them the best solution on many yard sites. Colors and styles vary from supplier to supplier, but the options are quite good.
Retaining walls should not only be considered for structural purposes. They can offer depth and great aesthetics to any yard site. Multi-level walling and stairs can be incorporated into any slope for both practicality and looks.
Any retaining wall is confined to an allowable finished height of one meter above final grade. If your yard site requires a wall over these measurements, you will require an engineering plan and City of Calgary permit.
Natural stone border-type walls are also available. Materials can be hard to locate for this type of walling. The simple fact of working with a natural stone can be quite labor intensive and does require a large budget. Some people love the look of natural stone and view it as a must have in their yard site.
Traditional wood retaining walls are still available as well. They are only practical in some cases, and generally don’t offer the same long-term benefits as stone. Wood walls are subject to pushing out over the long term and, of course, wood decay is always a downside. However, in the right application and style of yard they can still be a good solution.
