landscaping and landscape design
online landscaping design
landscaping and landscape design
HOME | SERVICES | PORTFOLIO | PONDS | GARDEN STORE | ARTICLES | VIDEO | CONTACT US | SITEMAP | ABOUT US | BLOG
landscaping services

Landscape Design
Portfolio
Design Cost
Questionnaire

pond kits and gardening products

Pond Kits
Pond Supplies
Waterfall Kits
Apparel
Birds & Wildlife
Natural Pest Control
Fertilizers
Garden Accessories
Garden Supplies
Gifts for Gardeners
Housewares
Outdoor Living
Pots, Planters
Seed Starting
Seeds
Garden Tools
Watering Supplies

landscape and garden information

Water Features
Maintenance
Installation
Hardscapes
Landscape Lighting

landscape design company

About Us
Contact Us
Privacy Statement
Terms of Use
Our Garden Journal

Or Call Toll Free
1-866-816-4769
Local or International:
208-265-5881


Retaining Wall

Sloping sites can benefit from the construction of retaining walls to provide more level areas for planting and other uses; walls are one of the most popular and useful hardscape additions to the landscape. It's extremely important to understand the possibly catastrophic consequences of poor design or construction; the significant physical forces involved in holding back large quantities of soil require very thorough engineering and careful construction. The drawings and photo below show a wall built with interlocking concrete block, one of the best alternatives for a retaining wall; construction of other types of walls such as stone, timbers and railroad ties, share many of the underlying principles shown in the diagrams. The do it yourself installer will be wise to resolve any questions or concerns with the help of a qualified professional; you really don't want to do this project twice!


do it yourself retaining wall construction

Notice the provisions included to facilitate drainage; it is essential to allow water to flow away from the back of the wall. Also notice the use of geosynthetic reinforcement to help tie the wall into the soil; traditional wood timber walls use a similar construction technique with "dead men" beams anchored back into the soil. These modular blocks are designed to produce the slight stair step lean back into the hill. Though this project requires dedicated planning and flawless execution, it's not out of the range for the energetic do it yourself homeowner. Be sure to obtain all essential installation manuals and specifications from the manufacturer or supplier.

(Above graphic used by permission from Versa-Lok)

Return to Hardscapes 



 

Featured Products at The Clearwater Landscape Market

Creating your own pond, waterfall and stream is one of the most rewarding home improvements you will ever complete. If you can use a shovel and follow simple directions, you'll soon be able to enjoy countless hours of peaceful contemplation beside your own water garden. Do It Yourself!


Choose from reasonably priced quality furniture, arbors, gazebos, trellises, outdoor fireplaces, hammocks, patio heaters, plant stands, umbrellas, planters, sundials, windchimes and many other garden accessories.


Using a high quality tool makes all the difference! We carry Felco, Fiskars, Corona, Solo and other proven brands: cultivators, planters, havesters, loppers, shears, rakes, saws, sprayers and more. Do It Right the First Time!


Choose the right gift among favorites like poetry stones, tree faces, bamboo door curtains and banners, candles and more. Throughout the Landscape Market, in all categories, you'll find quality products to please your gardening friend.




Dan Eskelson photo Dan Eskelson

do it yourself landscape project manual

Design for Success

Build a Landscape

Free – Build a Pond

landscaping and gardening newsletter

Learn valuable garden and landscaping tips from our free monthly newsletter. Your privacy is guaranteed.
 

First Name:

Your Email:

landscape and gardening forum

Ask questions and share information with others


Home | Services | Portfolio | | Ponds | GARDEN STORE | Articles | Contact Us | Sitemap | About Us