rock retaining wall landscaping

A stone retaining wall has the power to completely transform your property and can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Whether you’re looking for a more natural look for the front yard, or a modern landscape design for your business, these types of walls are becoming increasingly popular for their versatility and staying power. 

But what exactly is a rock retaining wall? In this article, we’re going to cover some of the basics you should know.

What Is A Rock Retaining Wall?

A rock retaining wall is a solid wall formation that’s built to hold a large amount of soil on one side in order to allow different ground elevations on either side of the wall. Although they can be used for purely decorative purposes, the most common reason these walls are used is to hold back soil. 

This is especially true in situations where the ground above the wall is sloped downwards. A natural stone wall can help prevent erosion by containing the sloped soil, but a lot depends on the materials used and the strength of the wall.

How High Should It Be?

The answer to this question can depend on several factors, including the terrain, your design goals, and the type of materials being used. But in most cases, they range between three to four feet high. 

This is typically the preferred height because it’s the easiest to install and doesn’t demand complicated engineering methods. In some cases, a wall needs to be higher because the ground is unusually steep or hilly. 

Sometimes a homeowner may just want an exclusive design for aesthetic reasons, in which case walls can be as tall as six feet or more. 

How Long Do They Last?

Building a wall is no easy feat, but the payoff is they can last for years depending on the quality of installation and material. In general, you can expect a stone rock wall to last between fifty to one hundred years. 

Keep in mind that the staying power can be influenced by the soil conditions and the weather. If you want your wall to endure the test of time, then it’s always best to hire a professional.

Ready To Get Started? Call Now To Get Your Free Estimate!

At NW Rock N Dirt, we take great pride in turning our customers’ visions into reality. With over two decades of experience, there’s no job we can’t do. We offer both residential and commercial services, including boulder retaining walls, rock stairways, entryways, and landscape boulders.

Take the next step in creating the landscape of your dreams – give us a call today to speak to one of our experts.

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