Critical Drawbacks of Denver Retaining Walls You Must Know Before Building

If you have a perfectly installed retaining wall in Denver, for sure, it definitely brings a significant difference in terms of aesthetics and functionality in your space. You choose the right retaining wall Denver instead of another option maybe because it helps manage soil erosion, stabilize slopes, or create usable space. However, even though it provides many benefits, through a variety of options, its downsides can become apparent over time. Therefore, before you start your retaining walls in Denver, understanding the key drawbacks of installing one can help you assess whether it is really worth it or not. Here are the things that you should consider:

Ongoing Maintenance

A major drawback to owning a retaining wall in Denver is its difficulty to maintain. Regular maintenance is required if you want to keep its functionality and aesthetic looks. Yes, a retaining wall is durable but its maintenance process can differ from other structures, especially the harsh weather such as frosting winters and blazing summers add to the challenge of maintaining the structural integrity of retaining walls, making the maintenance more crucial.

Another concern that may arise is the drainage issues. Drainage systems also need to be maintained over time, as water accumulation behind the walls can exert pressure that leads to cracks, bulges, or even wall failure.

However, a great solution here is to hire a professional to do the regular inspection and maintenance for you. Denver Retaining Wall Experts can help you ensure that your retaining wall is always at its full potential. Just send a message to get a quick response.

High Initial Costs

Compared to other options, retaining walls may require a high initial cost, depending on the size, materials, and its complexity. The installation process requires careful planning, engineering, and specialized materials, especially if it needs to support substantial loads or steep slopes. 

While the upfront costs can be steep, keep in mind that a retaining wall is also an investment. Having this in your property can boost its value. Just make sure that you choose quality materials and skilled Denver retaining wall contractors to get away with costly repairs or replacements and ensure a result that is truly worth it. 

Structural Failure Risks

Unlike other structures, failing retaining walls can impose hazards that can cause serious damage and accidents, making it the most concerning drawback. Not only that, the repair is also costly and if it causes damage to surrounding areas, you could be liable for those as well. Retaining walls collapse due to many reasons such as inadequate drainage, improper foundation, or using materials that aren’t strong enough to hold the pressure and moisture behind the wall. 

Well, countering this downside is really simple—hire a credible and professional contractor. They have qualified engineers who can assess the area, choose proper materials, and ensure that the process will go smoothly. Also, never cut corners as this can lead to subpar work.

Aesthetic Limitations

This might be subjective, but some property owners find retaining walls interrupt the natural flow of the landscape, making the landscape look artificial. If you aim for a more natural outdoor look for your property, this can be a huge setback. Also, the aesthetic appeal can be limited, especially if your Denver retaining wall is constructed out of basic materials like concrete or blocks. Moreover, local regulations have restrictions on height, materials, and styles which limits your options.

Fortunately, there are many ways to improve the appearance of your retaining wall if you have a talent for landscape design. Don’t worry if you’re not because we’ll help you out. For example, you can add decorative stones or use veneer materials. You can also landscape around your wall by planting shrubs or flowers to soften its appearance and integrate it more seamlessly into the surrounding environment. 



But this is better to take action than to leave it as talk, so if you need assistance in boosting the aesthetic look of your retaining wall in Denver, reach out to us today.

Limited Lifespan

If you have concrete or stone retaining walls, good news for you because you don’t have to worry about this. But other retaining walls made out of bamboo, timber, vinyl, and such, don’t have the same lifespan as concrete and stone. Some materials other than concrete and stone can last anywhere from 5-30 years.

Choosing durable materials for your Denver retaining wall can be advantageous to make it have an extended lifespan. Also, professionals can provide a significant result in extending its longevity. But for some, 30 years is not that bad, so this downside might not be a concern for others.

Final Thoughts

Before you choose retaining walls, weigh the advantages and drawbacks. If you have noticed, the solutions to the dilemmas are simple and we have repeated them many times—hire professionals. They can help you better than anyone else. You can start by sending us a message today.