Why You Should Consider a Retaining Wall as Part of Your Wheaton, IL, Landscaping Project
It’s easy to see and appreciate all of the most beautiful parts of a landscape such as flowers, waterfalls, and patios. However, there’s one landscape feature that has the ability to not only stun with its beauty but also provide an essential structure that helps shape the landscape. A retaining wall should be a part of any sloped landscape or any outdoor living area that is in need of a division of spaces. As you decide what your landscape needs next, here’s why you should consider a retaining wall as part of your Wheaton, IL landscaping project.
Preventing Erosion
The biggest threats to a landscape are the massive geological processes that shape our natural world. Rain runoff can quickly erode topsoil and damage a landscape beyond recognition. A retaining wall will do the essential duty of physically holding back soil, which will dramatically reduce the harm done from erosion by diverting the water to where it can be safely extracted. A retaining wall is useful on any steep slope with poor plant cover, with soil that tends to hold moisture; but the best way to determine whether you need a retaining wall is to consult with a landscape professional.
Dividing Spaces of Use
Though the retaining wall is generally a fairly low landscape feature, rarely rising above 4 feet and often even lower, it does prove to be an effective physical barrier. If the retaining wall is along the property perimeter, it can do double duty as a fence; and if it’s more centrally located, it can help to divide your backyard into various spaces of use. For example, the upper part of the slope could be reserved for outdoor living, while the lower part could become a play area for the kids.
If your slope is particularly steep, a series of terraces could be used to shape the land and create more usable space for gardens and outdoor living.
On perfectly flat properties, a low seat wall could be used to divide the space between a front entry walkway and the landscape, to define the space and give a warm “embrace” to visitors.
Housing Light Fixtures
The essential difference in your landscape between night and day is whether or not your friends and family will feel safe and welcome. Some great lighting strategies can greatly enhance the beauty of your landscape. Integrating light fixtures into the retaining wall creates a clutter-free landscape, enhances the textures of the wall at night, and provides visual depth to the space.
Expanding Seating
A retaining wall can become a great place to integrate seating. A low retaining wall can have a few casual partygoers sit on the capstones and enjoy some drinks and a friendly chat. A taller retaining wall can feature an integrated bench that allows for a comfortable place to appreciate the view. A rounded retaining wall can create a big semi-circle seating area surrounding a fire pit. Integrating seating into a wall is another way to reduce clutter in an outdoor living space while providing necessary overflow seating.
Emboldening Visuals
Apart from its endlessly practical physical presence, a retaining wall also has the opportunity to become a beautiful focal point. The masonry used to make a retaining wall is one opportunity for creative expression. A retaining wall establishes a strong vertical presence and increases visual interest: and the choice of natural stone, decorative concrete wall units, or veneers give you endless design choices.
