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In building a retaining wall in Denver, there are a lot of mistakes that people make, particularly those who DIY their retaining walls. Keep in mind that the retaining wall that you are creating is an investment that will improve the functionality and curb appeal of your landscape. However, you will surely encounter a lot of challenges, particularly due to the unique climate and soil conditions in Denver . In this article, we will give you the common mistakes to avoid when building a retaining wall that can help you save time, money, and frustration. Common Mistake #1: Not Paying Attention to Local Regulations and Permits Some people are really excited to jump into the construction process and neglect that local building codes and regulations are one of the most critical steps before starting a retaining wall project. Every city, particularly in Denver, has specific guidelines regarding the height, materials, and integrity of any retaining walls. If ignored, these can lead to fines and mandatory reconstruction, causing you to have fines and getting your construction into trouble. Always remember, to check with the local building department and obtain the necessary permits and requirements before starting the construction. Common Mistake #2: Poor Drainage Planning Due to unpredictable weather, heavy rains, and snowmelt that can increase the chance of soil erosion and water accumulation, failing to install proper drainage can compromise the structural integrity of your retaining wall. By incorporating drainage systems, it will prevent the wall from accumulating hydrostatic pressure, which can cause the wall to crack or collapse. Common Mistake #3: Lack of Foundation Preparation A solid foundation is really important in any type of construction work, particularly in retaining walls. A strong foundation will determine its longevity and stability over time. It is a huge mistake if you skimp on foundation preparation which can lead to shifting and settling in the long run. To make sure that the base is stable, incorporate excavation in the base trench to the recommended depth and fill it up with compacted gravel. Always remember to support the weight of the wall and the soil behind it by ensuring that your foundation is level and firmly compacted. Common Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Materials This is where many DIYers make mistakes due to a lack of knowledge about the appropriate materials fit for their project. Selecting the wrong materials can put the durability and appearance of your wall in danger. If you are living in Denver, materials that can withstand freeze-thaw cycles and temperature fluctuations are the best option. Avoid using materials that can be prone to deteriorating due to these conditions. You can choose from different materials that can offer strength and resilience such as concrete blocks, natural stone, treated wood, etc. Common Mistake #5: Neglecting Soil Conditions Don’t forget that soil type is important in the design and construction of any retaining wall. Each soil type has different load-bearing capacities and drainage characteristics. To ensure the soil condition, it is advisable to conduct a soil test. The information you can gather in this test will allow you to design a retaining wall that can handle the specific conditions of your landscape. But if you ignore soil conditions, it can lead to improper design and structural failure in the latter part. Common Mistake #6 Neglecting to Account for Load and Pressure There are many DIYers who underestimate the load and pressure their wall will face, which can lead to structural failure. Consider the height of the wall, the slope of the land, and other additional loads like structures and vehicles nearby. Keep in mind that your retaining wall should withstand the lateral pressure exerted by the soil behind them. Common Mistake #7: Skipping Geogrid Reinforcement For those who don’t know, geogrid is a synthetic mesh that interconnects with the soil that will distribute the load and reduce the pressure on the wall. That is why skipping geogrid reinforcement can result in a weak structure. Common Mistake #8: Improper Backfilling Techniques Your technique in backfilling has a huge impact on the performance of your retaining wall. It is better to use gravel or a well-draining soil mix and avoid using high clay content soil because it absorbs water and increases pressure. Make sure to compact the backfill in layers to make your retaining wall more stable and reduce settling in the long run. Common Mistake #9: Lack of Professional Consultation DIY projects are definitely rewarding, especially when you accomplish something out of your expertise. However, you should consider that building a retaining wall is complex and requires professional expertise. Without consulting with a landscape architect or engineer, you are putting yourself and your retaining wall at risk. To avoid mistakes, seek professional assistance with design, choice of materials, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Professional guidance can save you from errors and ensure the success of your project. Common Mistake #10: Overlooking Aesthetic Considerations The function of retaining walls is what homeowners want, but the appearance also matters. It can result in a wall that looks out of place if the aesthetic considerations are neglected. It is best to choose materials and designs that complement your landscape and home’s current appearance. You can add plants, lighting, and other elements that can enhance the visual appeal of your retaining wall. It is really rewarding to create your own retaining wall but always keep in mind the potential risks and common mistakes. By avoiding them, you can be at peace knowing that your terrain will be elevated properly by having the best outcome from your retaining wall. Contact us today to know more!