Retaining walls are essential for the protection of property and easements during the winter months. We and other hardscaping companies have been working hard all spring, summer and autumn building safe, secure, quality retaining walls that will withstand winter’s heavy moisture and abusive temperatures, and provide protection for your property. So here’s some interesting information on what your retaining wall is doing to protect your property during this winter, and what you can do to make sure your retaining wall is secure and functional.
- Protecting against erosion and soil shift. With the increased precipitation and the weight of all that moisture, your retaining wall is helping to keep your landscaped and living areas safe and free from the encroachment of shifting soil around your property. It is holding the increased weight of all that wet soil while allowing it to drain, but keeping it in place and OUT of your driveways, walkways, patios, and back gardens.
- Channeling water away from your living areas and foundations. As the snow thaws, your retaining wall is helping to channel all that moisture behind that retaining wall and in all the soil beyond it away from hardscaped areas. Protecting the foundations and footers of your structures from water damage can be one of the most valuable functions of your retaining wall.
- Providing a beautiful weather break for your landscape. While the rest of your property may look barren and bleak during the long, monotonous winter months, your retaining wall is providing a weather break for those areas where it is located. Plantings along a retaining wall will typically weather the harsh winter months better as they are somewhat sheltered from extremes.
It’s important, especially during the winter, to appreciate the value of your retaining wall. Make sure there are no obstructions to the drainage areas of the wall. Look for cracks, bulges, or shifting of the wall, and contact your builder immediately if you notice anything wrong. Look for water pooling anywhere along the base of your retaining wall to make sure the drainage system isn’t clogged or backing up.
Contact Al at Herstad Landscaping with any concerns you may have about your existing retaining wall. He has been constructing high-quality engineered retaining walls throughout southern WI for decades, and he will help you protect your property. His experienced team can help you maintain the safety and beauty of your property throughout the winter months, and schedule any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
