Building Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are structural enhancements added to a yard or slope in order to hold back soil or rock. They prevent erosion and soil movement while providing support. Retaining walls can be a beautiful landscaping tool for a yard. However, if they are going to be over three feet tall, they need to be supervised by an experienced structural engineer. Large walls require quality-building techniques to prevent collapse. Building retaining walls requires placing them below the ground to prevent tipping. Moisture in the soil as well as heating and cooling can cause movement. Digging a flat, level base will provide support and stability for the wall. Packing dirt as you build the structure will prevent shifting and sinking. Gravel must also be added for additional drainage and you might consider adding a pipe to drain water from behind the wall. You would not want to create a structure that would allow an excessive build-up of water towards your foundation, which would require a sump pump or battery backup sump pump. Plants can be placed to prevent erosion as well as netting.

Drainage systems help to remove excessive water that collects in basements during heavy downpours. Sometimes sump pumps fail due to power outages, broken floats or clogged pipes. A battery backup sump pump is an ideal solution for protecting your possessions during heavy rains and thunderstorms. Backup sump pumps will work during power outages and when a regular sump pump is experiencing an overflow of water. If you are in an area that floods, sump pumps are an additional tool to help you successfully, remove water from your home. AM Shield Waterproofing Corporation can discuss the appropriate water drainage systems for your home to prevent water damage and flooding. They are experienced in all forms of home repair from mold remediation and waterproofing to masonry and building retaining walls. Call today to schedule an appointment for your free estimate.