Why Concrete Retaining Walls Are Strong And Durable

There are many ways to shape your yard, and a concrete retaining wall is one of the perfect touches. 

While retaining walls are great for leveling out a sloped garden, stopping dirt from washing away, or setting up a series of garden beds, installing is not as straightforward as stacking blocks. 

Along with the right knowledge of proper installation, you also need to choose a strong material to avoid the wall tipping over or crumbling. If you want a retaining wall that can last Tumwater’s varying weather, a concrete retaining wall is a solid choice. 



This guide will help you navigate how you can benefit from a properly built concrete retaining wall. As we dive into what makes concrete walls so dependable, you’ll see why your neighbors prefer them.

What Makes a Concrete Retaining Wall Strong and Durable?

The Material Used

When it comes to retaining walls, material choice should be a priority. Alternatives like stone and timber offer natural aesthetics but can lack uniform strength and durability. 

Stone walls, made from limestone or granite, vary in durability based on the stone type. Timber, while rustic, is susceptible to weathering and decay, even when treated. Concrete retaining walls, however, stand out for their robustness. 

Concrete, a mix of cement, aggregates, and water, forms a dense, hard matrix through a chemical reaction known as curing. This process creates calcium silicate hydrate, which fills the mixture's voids, rendering the concrete non-porous and exceptionally durable. 

No wonder concrete is favored for structures demanding high strength and longevity, like dams, bridges, buildings, and, of course, walls.

The Foundation

Preparing the foundation is the critical first step of the installation process. A concrete retaining wall with a solid foundation can effectively serve its purpose, whether to prevent soil erosion, manage water runoff, or create usable land on slopes.

While preparing the base, ask yourself:

1. Is the trench depth sufficient for stability? The trench should be at least 6 inches deep, or 1/10 of the total height to anchor the wall securely.
   
2. Is the foundation base compact and even? A properly compacted and leveled base is crucial to prevent shifting and collapsing.
3. Is adequate drainage in place? Good drainage reduces pressure on the wall, helping to maintain its integrity over time.

Remember, inspecting your concrete retaining wall’s foundation crucially influences its durability and life, ensuring your investment pays off in the coming years. Not sure how it performs? Talk to an expert now!

The Quality of Work

It's important to understand the demands of the concrete retaining wall project. Achieving a quality-built wall that stands strong and looks good for years doesn’t come easy. 

Let's say you're thinking about doing it yourself. Are you ready to commit your time? Even smaller projects typically need 20 to 36 hours of work.

As mentioned, the process involves more than just stacking blocks. You'll need to precisely excavate, dig trenches, and carefully place and align each block while ensuring everything is level. 

Can you handle the work of drainage, waterproofing, and frost protection to prevent future issues? And then there's the matter of adding reinforcements and compacting the soil correctly.

For these reasons, many homeowners find that hiring a professional concrete retaining wall contractor is a smart choice.

Building Strong and Durable Concrete Retaining Walls with Northwest Concrete

At Northwest Concrete, we bring more than just skilled labor. Our work starts even before construction. With complete tools and equipment, we can handle projects of any size, ensuring all runs smoothly from start to finish. 

We'll thoroughly assess the proposed location for your retaining wall in Tumwater, checking the slope, soil type, and drainage to ensure it fits well with your garden paths while complying with local building regulations.

After completion, you will enjoy the benefits of:

• Erosion Control: Retaining walls prevent soil erosion on sloped properties.
• Water Management: Walls effectively manage runoff, protecting your property from water damage during heavy rains.
• Sinkhole Prevention: In areas susceptible to sinkholes, concrete retaining walls help stabilize the ground.
• Structural Support: The walls support your home’s foundation, especially critical on inclined lots.
• Functional Space Creation: Walls transform steep slopes into usable land for gardening or entertainment.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Installing retaining walls will enhance your home’s curb appeal.
• Increased Property Value: By improving functionality and appearance, concrete walls boost your property's market value.

FAQs

How do I maintain a retaining wall? 

Keep the wall clear of debris and ensure proper drainage to avoid water buildup or damage. Repair any cracks or leaning, apply a sealant to preserve its appearance, and regularly inspect for erosion.

Why is retaining walls’ proper water management crucial? 

Proper water management prevents erosion at the base and reduces pressure that can lean, bulge, or collapse the wall.

How much does a concrete retaining wall cost? 

The cost varies based on the wall's size, location, materials, and terrain complexities. Estimate the cost by measuring the wall’s length and height to determine its area. Choose materials and calculate their cost per unit, including tools and equipment. Add labor costs and a contingency for unexpected expenses.

What material is cost-effective for a retaining wall? 

Concrete is a cost-effective option, offering versatility in aesthetics like stamping, staining, or carving to mimic stone. Save money by interlocking concrete blocks. Not only is it an economical choice, but it also provides durability without the high cost.

Discover the Lasting Benefits of a Quality Concrete Retaining Wall in Tumwater

As you’ve discovered, the strength and dependability of your concrete retaining wall will be obvious once it is built with the right materials, a solid foundation, and quality workmanship. 

Only then will you fully experience the benefits of having a concrete wall, including essential erosion control, effective water runoff management, structural support, and the creation of usable land for gardening or landscaping—all of which increase your property’s value.

If you want to know more about how a retaining wall can improve your property, give us a call at (360) 529-9961. Build your concrete retaining wall in Tumwater, Washington, with Northwest Concrete.