Retaining Walls and Blockwork
We build all types of retaining walls including sandstone, all varieties of concrete blockwork, sleepers, poured concrete, masonry, natural rock and more!
When building any retaining wall on your property, it’s essential that the structure is strong, safe, and durable. Often constructed as part of a landscape garden project, a well-built retaining wall is ideal for making best use of a sloping block. They’re also excellent if you’re planning a raised garden bed or terraced entertainment area in your backyard.
The keys to building a successful retaining wall using blockwork are:
- Start with a clear design/plan
- Good base preparation
- Allowing for proper drainage
- Select the right sized block for the job
- Make sure your blocks are level
- Hire an expert contractor
- In some cases, our first step is to remove an old wall or structure to clear the way for your new retaining wall.
- Base preparation is one of the most important aspects of constructing a solid retaining wall. Depending on the size of the job, we might clear and smooth the area by hand or using an excavator, then compact the soil.
- We make sure the base is nice and level and then apply gravel. This allows water to drain through, so it doesn’t cause your wall to move if the surrounding soil erodes. Making sure you’ve got good drainage is really the trick here.
- Choosing the correct sized block is also important. Structural integrity is crucial here. If you’re just building a small garden, we use smaller blocks. If you’re lining a driveway or building your wall on a serious slope, you’ll probably need bigger, more solid blocks.
- The blocks are always placed so they’re perfectly level. If you’ve got a good base, this should be straightforward.
The principles are the same when building your retaining wall from other materials like stone or timber.
What to consider when you’re planning to build a retaining wall on your property
Your budget
When planning your retaining wall, you’ll need to consider your budget as well as the ‘look’ you’re after.
How your retaining wall compliments your home and garden design
Creating the right aesthetic will come down to the materials used as well as the shape of your retaining wall (straight or curved, for example).
What your retaining wall is made of
Poured concrete is the most economical material with which to build your retaining wall. Other materials options include interlocking concrete blocks, treated pine sleepers, and stone.
Tick the box on the right approvals
Council approved and fully compliant with all Building Code regulations – rules about how close your retaining wall can be to the boundary of your property. If placed on or near the property boundary, you’ll need a Development Application (DA) approval and a Construction Certificate (CC) from your local council before works begin.
Of course, if you’re just wanting a simpler retaining wall to create garden areas in your backyard the process is a lot simpler.
You must use a licensed contractor
Most jurisdictions require you to use a licensed contractor – which is not a problem when you enlist Coastal Civil Creations to build your retaining wall.
Experience counts when building your retaining wall
Having an experienced landscape contractor to build your retaining wall makes all the difference. They’ll help you avoid any structural failures, like cracking and movement, and ensure your retaining wall lasts the distance.
4 factors for building a retaining wall that lasts
1. Select the right materials
for the site conditions, including the climate.
2. Avoid putting too much weight behind the structure
and give your retaining wall a solid base. Depending on the height and weight of the wall, you may need to reinforced footings or anchors to hold the wall in place.
3. Make sure there’s adequate drainage
surface and groundwater can build-up and erode both the soil and the wall itself.
4. Maintain your retaining wall
keep an eye for pooled water, weeds, and soil movement to make sure your wall stays put.
Our Process
We Handle It All
01.
We find out what you need
We discuss your project on the phone or by email. If needed, I’ll visit the site. I’ll give you an honest opinion on the scope, timing, and general cost involved.
02.
We send you your quote
All my quotes are detailed and priced to complete the job to your satisfaction. If you have a question about what’s covered, don’t hesitate to ask.
03.
We get to work
Once we’ve got the go-ahead, I’ll organise my team and the materials we’ll use to complete your project – always keeping you informed of our progress.
Let’s get your project moving!