When it comes to building a retaining wall, there are lots of different materials to choose from. However, certain materials are better than others. Of course, this is highly dependent on the job at hand. To help you pick the right materials for your next project, our retaining wall specialist in Kelowna has outlined the pros and cons of various retaining wall materials. Follow along below to learn more!
Pros and Cons of Different Retaining Wall Materials
Concrete Retaining Walls
Pros: One of the biggest pros to a concrete wall, is durability. Concrete walls that have been done right can last several decades without breakage. Moreover, concrete walls can be made into a number of different styles, finishes, and shapes. With the help of new equipment and state-of-the-art tools, concrete walls are actually fairly easy to install. They’re also low maintenance and eco-friendly.
Cons: One disadvantage of concrete walls is that they need to be carefully engineered. This is necessary so that they last the test of time and don’t pose any safety risks. Additionally, in many cases, concrete walls can only be used for walls up to four feet high (concrete block walls). Lastly, concrete walls can be a pain to remove or relocate once they are in place.
Timber Retaining Walls
Pros: Timber retaining walls are great because they are more affordable than other materials. Not only this, but they are also durable and look great once they are in place. Since timber is much lighter than concrete or rock, it is also easier to install.
Cons: The most obvious con to using timber is that wood rots. Especially, given the wet winters and springs in the Okanagan. In addition, wood is difficult to manipulate into different shapes and designs. So, if you plan on having a complex retaining wall (e.g. lots of curves), it’s best to choose a different material. Lastly, wood is highly susceptible to pests which can weaken its structural integrity.
Pros and Cons of Rock Retaining Walls as Described by a Retaining Wall Specialist in Kelowna.
Rock Retaining Walls
Pros: Rock is an excellent material for building retaining walls because it provides a natural kind of aesthetic that many homeowners desire. Moreover, rock is easy to use and many different designs can be accomplished. Besides this, rock is also plentiful in the Okanagan. This means that you won’t have to worry about spending time sourcing materials. Finally, rock is incredibly durable which makes it a great choice for retaining walls.
Cons: One downside of rocks is that they can be difficult to transport and move around due to their weight and size. They’re also inflexible which can make certain designs more challenging. Furthermore, rock walls cannot be built as high as other retaining wall materials because of safety reasons.
Contact Your Retaining Wall Specialist in Kelowna Today!
If you have any other questions about the pros and cons of the various retaining wall materials, contact us today. Our retaining wall specialist in Kelowna would love to answer any questions that you may have. Be sure to check out our social media for progress photos and past projects. We look forward to working with you in the near future!
