thinking of getting a retaining wall? read this first.

Hey there, fellow homeowners! Are you thinking about building a retaining wall in your backyard? Retaining walls are an excellent addition to any outdoor space, but the construction process can seem daunting. In this blog post, I'm going to share some tips and tricks for retaining wall construction that will make the process much more manageable.

First things first, before you start any construction, you need to make sure you have the necessary permits and approvals from the City of Kingston. 

Once you have your paperwork in order, it's time to start planning. The first step is to determine the location and size of your retaining wall. This will depend on the slope of your yard and the purpose of the wall. Are you building it to create more usable space, or is it strictly for erosion control? Once you've established this, you can begin to sketch out the design.

When it comes to building materials, there are several options to choose from, including concrete blocks, stone, and timber. Each material has its pros and cons, so it's important to do your research to find the best option for your project. Whatever material you choose, be sure to factor in the cost and the time it will take to install.

The construction process itself can be broken down into several steps. First, you'll need to excavate the area where the wall will be located. This will require some heavy equipment, so you may want to consider hiring a professional. Once the area is cleared, you can begin to lay the foundation. This involves pouring a concrete footing to provide stability for the wall.

Next, you'll start laying the first course of blocks or stones. This is where you'll need to pay close attention to the slope and make sure the wall is level. As you work your way up, you'll need to add drainage behind the wall to prevent water buildup, which can cause the wall to shift or collapse.

As you approach the top of the wall, you'll need to cap it off with a finishing layer. This will not only provide a polished look but also help prevent water from seeping into the wall and causing damage.
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Once the wall is complete, it's important to maintain it properly. This involves regular inspections to ensure there are no cracks or signs of damage. If you do notice any issues, it's important to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

If reading this post is making your head swim, you can always leave this work to the professionals.  Masonry Kingston has been the top choice for retaining wall construction for over 10 years.  Give us a call to discuss your project vision and how you want to transform your outdoor space!