Retaining walls can come in a variety of heights, sizes and styles, each of which is designed for a specific purpose or appearance. The list below show the most popular retaining walls and the specifications of when and/or how they should be used.
Wood Timber Retaining Wall:
A wood timber wall is often used when the homeowner needs to minimize the cost of the project. They are held together by either metal spikes or screws and are typically 6-8″ thick. These walls are not very strong and should not be installed to support a large amount of weight or such a tall wall (greater than 2′). The wood timbers that are used are chemically treated to reduce the rate of decomposition but, they still do rot and deteriorate over time. This type of wall should only be used when budget is the driving factor or if the wall is short in height.
Garden Wall:
Garden walls are made of small concrete retaining wall blocks that area typically (12″ long X 4″ high X 7″ deep). These walls have a similar strength as a wood timber wall, however, they do not have the risk of rotting or deterioration. A major benefit of a garden wall is that they can be curved and there are a variety of colors, styles and textures available to choose from.
Keystone Retaining Wall:
A Keystone retaining wall is the best choice when strength and longevity is needed. This type of wall is made up of modular concrete block units that come in two sizes: Compac Units and Standard Units. The Compac Units weigh 80 pounds each and are 12″ deep and the Standard Units weigh about 100 pounds and are 21″ deep. These units are connected with fiberglass pins, can hold significant weight and are built to last for the foreseeable future. Not many walls can beat the strength of a Keystone wall! Want to see how a Keystone Retaining Wall is built? Click here!
Lannon Wallstone Retaining Wall:
A Lannon Wallstone retaining wall is a great selection when looking for a natural stone look. The stone is typically cut into uniform heights for ease when installing while still having an all natural appearance. These walls have average strength and longevity but are a great choice when trying to complement a natural landscape.
Lannon Outcropping Stone Retaining Wall:
The Lannon Outcropping Stone retaining wall is yet another great natural stone option. It is made of similar looking stone as the Lannon Wallstone, but the Outcropping stones are significantly heavier and are larger in size. In addition, the Outcropping stone are not cut into uniform sizes and thickness, but instead are left completely natural. These walls are signifiacntly stronger than a Lannon Wallstone retaining wall and have a longer life expentancy.
Fieldstone Retaining Wall:
A Fieldstone retaining wall is another very popular choice for a natural retaining wall. Fieldstone boulders typically come in a range of colors, sizes and textures, so when the wall is complete, it makes for a striking appearance. These walls are comprised of all natural stone that are stacked from largest to smallest with a drainage system installed behind it to add additional strength. Fieldstone walls can be built to a wide range of sizes and heights depending upon the size of stone selected.
Unilock Olde Quarry Stone Retaining Wall:
When you are looking for an natural looking retaining wall but want the style of a modular retaining wall, then a Unilock Olde Quarry Retaining Wall is the best choice. These walls are comprised of three different sized wall units that are tumbled, distressed and are blend of colors. Often, a cap is added to the top of the wall for an additional decorative finishing detail. Due to the smaller size of the wall units, typically Unilock Olde Quarry Stone Retaining Walls are used for shorter retaining walls.
To view pictures of our completed retaining walls, click here.
Whatever your wall need might be, we are here to help! Our experts will be able to recommend the appropriate option that will accomplish your goals and meet your budget! Give us a call!
