Retaining walls are not just functional structures; they also add a touch of beauty and elegance to your home landscaping. When it comes to creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing retaining wall, natural stones are an excellent choice. Natural stones’ unique colors, textures, and shapes can transform a mundane landscape into a stunning masterpiece. Our team compiled a few tips about selecting the best natural stones to build retaining walls for your home landscaping.
Easy Steps for Selecting the Best Natural Stones for Retaining Walls:
Easy Steps for Selecting the Best Natural Stones for Retaining Walls:Step 1: Evaluate Your Landscape
Before selecting the stones, take a close look at your landscape. Consider the elevation changes, soil type, and drainage patterns. Understanding your landscape will help you determine the appropriate size, shape, and height of the retaining wall required. It’s essential to ensure that the wall you build is structurally sound and can withstand the pressure of the soil it is meant to retain.
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Natural Stone
Several types of natural stones are available for retaining wall construction, each with unique properties. The most popular choices include:
- Flagstone: Flagstone is a flat, thin natural stone that creates a natural and irregular look. It’s great for a rustic or informal style retaining wall.
- Limestone: Limestone offers a classic and timeless appearance. It is available in various colors, including beige, gray, and blue.
- Sandstone: Sandstone is durable and comes in various warm earthy tones, making it an excellent choice for retaining walls with a natural and warm feel.
- Granite: Granite is one of the strongest natural stones available, offering durability and an elegant look. It comes in various colors, including gray, black, and pink.
- Basalt: Basalt is a volcanic rock that is incredibly strong and suitable for modern or contemporary landscape designs.
Step 3: Consider Size and Shape
The size and shape of the stones are crucial factors to consider for both aesthetics and functionality. Larger stones may provide a more dramatic appearance and can be easier to work with during construction. On the other hand, smaller stones allow for more flexibility in design, especially if you want to create curved or angled walls. Mixing different sizes and shapes can also add visual interest to the retaining wall.
Step 4: Prioritize Durability
Retaining walls are exposed to various weather conditions, so durability is paramount. Choose natural stones that are sturdy and can withstand the elements. Consider stones that are naturally resistant to erosion, freezing, and thawing. Granite, limestone, and basalt are excellent choices for their durability and resistance to weathering.
Step 5: Complement the Surrounding Landscape
Your retaining wall should complement your home’s overall landscape design and architecture. Consider the existing color scheme and style of your property. Limestone or sandstone might be a good fit if you have a more traditional home. Granite or basalt can provide a sleek and modern look for contemporary homes.
Step 6. Test for Stability
Before making your final decision, test the stability of the stones you are considering. Stack them up as if you were building the wall and check for any wobbling or gaps. Ensure that the stones interlock securely and can hold the weight of the soil. This step will help you identify potential issues before starting construction.
Step 7. Think About Ease of Installation
Some natural stones can be heavy and challenging to work with, which may increase installation costs. If you’re planning to build the wall yourself or hire a contractor, consider stones that are more manageable and easier to handle. Smaller, lightweight stones may be more suitable for DIY projects, while larger stones may require professional help.
Step 8. Eco-Friendly Considerations
Choosing natural stones for your retaining wall is already a sustainable choice, but you can take it a step further by sourcing locally. Local stones not only reduce transportation emissions but also blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment.
Visit Hilton Landscape Supply to Find the Best Stones for Retaining Walls for Your Yard
Building a retaining wall with natural stones can add both functionality and beauty to your home landscaping. Consider your landscape, choose the right type of stone, prioritize durability, and ensure the stones complement your property’s overall design. Our professional team at Hilton Landscape Supply can help you outline your project and select the best materials to do the job. We have a variety of natural stones for you to choose from to create a look uniquely your own. We’ll even deliver your materials right to the worksite. Visit us today to learn more about the possibilities.