There are two basic types of retaining walls, load bearing walls and decorative walls.

These are the basic differences between the two:

Load Bearing Retaining Walls

Load bearing retaining walls are structures that hold back the earth and stabilize soil and rock from down slope movement and erosion. Load bearing retaining walls with proper drainage systems provide support for vertical or near-vertical grade changes. Due to their structural integrity, retaining walls have gained favor over poured-in-place concrete walls and the once popular railroad tie walls which decompose over time.

Decorative Retaining Walls

Decorative retaining walls contribute to the beauty of your home and landscape. Decorative retaining walls are primarily used for visual effect in the landscape design and complement other landscape elements such as plants and pavers. Decorative retaining walls are more compatible with human activity and can be adapted to many practical uses.

They can be used as a bench, to create pillars, to create a base for a fence, to accent elements in the surrounding landscape, or create a system of terraces giving you many planting and landscaping opportunities.

Stone Retaining Walls

Natural stone should be considered on every retaining wall. With options like Fieldstone, River stone or boulder walls, natural stone adds a visual appeal like no other.

The team at Briggs Landscape will discuss the best options in natural stone walls and review the advantages and disadvantages of using a mother nature designed product.