Wooden Retaining Walls? – Their Surprising Benefits and How They Can Enhance Your Yard

SUMMARY

Have you ever considered wooden retaining walls for your yard? Maybe you haven’t, or you don’t know that much about them to consider it. This article will explain what wooden retaining walls are, how they compare to their more popular counterparts (stone retaining walls), and what the installation process involves. Learn how wooden retaining walls could be a great option for YOU.

Wooden Retaining Walls VS Stone Retaining Walls

Benefits and Drawbacks of Wooden Retaining Walls

One large benefit of wooden retaining walls is the nice, rustic look that helps enhance the natural beauty of outdoor spaces. While also being a visually appealing option, it is also a cost-effective one. It is far less expensive than using materials for stone or concrete retaining walls. It is also very easy to install and great if you want to make your retaining walls without professional help.
However, there are drawbacks when it comes to wooden retaining walls. Wood, like timber, is prone to decay, rot, and insect damage, especially in moist climates. This can significantly decrease its lifespan. You must perform regular maintenance like sealing, staining, or treating the wood to preserve its lifespan. Wooden retaining walls also shouldn’t exceed a height of more than 4 feet since they would be at risk for structural damage and can’t handle heavy loads. Lastly, since wood is more flammable than stone, it can pose a risk in areas prone to wildfires. However, a wooden retaining wall can be a great option when it comes to cost-effectiveness and to devote time to maintaining your wall.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Stone Retaining Walls

Stone retaining walls are the most popular choice for retaining wall design. Most landscaping services that offer retaining wall installations usually advertise stone retaining walls. And for good reason. Stone Retaining walls are durable, less susceptible to decay, and take a very long time to deteriorate. They offer a robust look that easily blends well into most garden landscapes. It is low maintenance while offering many different design options between the materials you use to construct it and any additional decorative touches.
However, they are more costly to install, and you may have to use less expensive materials to balance out the high installation cost. In addition, properly installing a stone retaining wall often requires expertise and heavy machinery, which can make it more difficult if you want to DIY it. Lastly, stone walls take up much space due to their bulkiness, which might not be great if you have a small property.

Why You Should Consider Professional Guidance for Wooden Retaining Walls

When installing a wooden retaining wall, even though it seems like a DIY-friendly project, you should consider getting professional help. If your wall is over 4 feet tall or needs to support heavy loads, like vehicles, it’s best to consult an engineer or professional installer. They can ensure everything meets local building codes and is structurally sound. Plus, if you’re dealing with tricky drainage issues or slopes, having an expert on board can help prevent problems.
Even for smaller walls, hiring professionals might be worth it if you’re uncomfortable using heavy machinery or analyzing soil conditions. They know the right materials and techniques, which can save you time and avoid mistakes. Plus, they can handle permits and regulations that might confuse newcomers. So while DIY can be rewarding, sometimes it’s smarter to let the pros take over for a solid and hassle-free result.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what retaining wall design you want to go with. While wood retaining walls offer a more rustic and simple look, they are more susceptible to deterioration if neglected. As well as being more at risk to the elements, particularly water and fire. Whichever wall you decide to incorporate into your yard, you can always consider retaining wall services as an option. With professional guidance, you can ensure a smooth project with no hitches.

That’s why you should consider Mastergrass for any of your projects! We are the most trusted landscaping company proudly serving the homes and businesses of Ames, Ankeny, and Altoona, Iowa. Regarding patios, pavers, and drainage, we are the best at what we do! Interested in what we have to offer? Don’t hesitate to call us at (515) 236-5168 and we’ll be able to create a custom plan to fit your needs and help bring your dream yard to life. As landscaping experts, we are masters of grass and landscapes with class.