Retaining Walls Catalogue - Grand River Natural Stone

7 Retaining Wall Styles to Consider for Your Outdoor Spaces

Grand River Natural Stone — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 20:11:16 +0000

Retaining walls are not just functional elements in landscaping; they are also artistic statements. When constructed with bricks, blocks or natural stone, they provide a timeless and robust solution for managing sloped terrains and enhancing aesthetic appeal. In this guide, we will explore the different types of stone retaining walls, ensuring you find the perfect match for your landscape’s needs.

1. Dry Stone Walls

Building dry stone walls involves a technique as ancient as it is durable: stacking stones without mortar, relying on arrangement and gravity to achieve stability. This method is celebrated for being environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The craftsmanship required for dry stone walling is significant, as the structure must be carefully engineered to withstand time and elements.

2. Armour Stone Wall

Armour stone walls are often used in landscaping and shoreline protection against erosion. These large, rugged stones are chosen for their size and strength, providing effective resistance against the pressures of water and weather. The installation of these walls can range from simple gravity retaining structures to more complex designs requiring engineering and backfill.

3. Segmental Retaining Walls

Constructed from precast concrete blocks, Segmental Retaining Walls (SRWs) are engineered to lock together without the need for mortar, allowing for flexibility and strength. SRWs are designed to accommodate changes in geography and can be used for a wide range of applications, from garden walls to large-scale soil retention projects.

4. Concrete Masonry Walls

Concrete Masonry Walls (CMU) are built using concrete blocks that can be left exposed or faced with veneer for aesthetic purposes. CMUs are praised for their fire resistance, thermal efficiency, and sound-blocking capabilities, making them ideal for both structural and decorative uses.

5. Poured Concrete Walls

This method involves pouring concrete into pre-designed forms, creating a seamless and sturdy barrier ideal for foundations, retaining walls, and structural supports. Poured concrete offers superior water resistance and strength, making it an excellent choice for below-grade applications.

6. Gabion Walls

Gabion walls are constructed with wire mesh containers filled with stones. This design is flexible and permeable, making it ideal for water run-off. They are used for applications like slope stabilization, riverbank protection, and flood control.

Find The Perfect Stone Building Supplies Today

At Grand River Natural Stone, we understand the importance of choosing the right type of retaining wall for your landscape, and our experts are here to guide you through the selection process. Visit us to explore our wide range of stone and concrete options, tailored to meet the unique needs of your outdoor space.

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Do You Need a Retaining Wall? 7 Warning Signs of Soil Erosion & More

Grand River Natural Stone — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:45:26 +0000

Retaining walls aren’t just decorative elements; they can be essential for both structural and aesthetic reasons. They protect, define, and enhance landscapes. Here are seven definitive signs indicating that your property may benefit from a retaining wall.

1. Steep Slopes

Properties with steep gradients often face erosion challenges, especially when subjected to heavy rain. Retaining walls stabilize these slopes, providing a barrier against soil displacement.

2. Water Accumulation

If you observe frequent pools of water, especially after rainfall, it’s a sign that your land isn’t draining properly. A retaining wall can help channel this runoff, ensuring your landscape remains pristine and free of water damage.

3. Crumbling Soil

When soil consistently falls apart, especially around foundations or garden beds, it’s a sign of soil erosion. Retaining walls act as barriers, holding the soil in place and preventing it from encroaching onto structures or pathways.

4. Foundation Threats

If your home is downhill from soil fault lines, you might be at risk of downward erosion. In these cases, retaining walls act as defenders, preventing soil from slipping and affecting your home’s foundation.

5. Difficulty in Landscaping

If you’re finding it challenging to plant trees or flowers due to a sloping yard, a retaining wall can level things out, offering you flat areas to cultivate your green thumb.

6. Shifting Trees or Structures

Should you notice trees leaning or structures like sheds shifting, it’s a sign the ground is moving. A retaining wall can halt this motion, securing everything in place.

7. Desire for Terraced Garden

Finally, if you just want beautiful, multi-level gardens or wish to emphasize certain parts of your landscape, retaining walls can help make that dream a reality. Make sure to work with a dedicated landscape designer to get the look you want and all the other benefits that come with retaining walls.

Get the Retaining Wall Supplies You Need at Grand River Natural Stone

Recognizing the signs early can save you from bigger landscape challenges down the road. If any of the above scenarios resonate with your property situation, it might be time for a retaining wall.

Looking for professional guidance and supplies? Reach out to Grand River Natural Stone today to transform your property the right way!

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Thinking of Building a Retaining Wall? Check Out This Comprehensive FAQ Guide

Grand River Natural Stone — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:54:24 +0000

Building a retaining wall doesn’t have to be complicated. While they must be practical, they can also be stylish and durable. Thinking of putting one up? Check out our FAQ guide below for all you need to know.

What’s the Purpose of a Retaining Wall?

The primary purpose of a retaining wall is to counteract the forces of gravity and stabilize sloped landscapes, preventing soil erosion and providing support for vertical grade changes. By doing so, it holds back soil and rocks, effectively turning a hill or slope into a flat surface. Beyond this functional aspect, retaining walls can also serve aesthetic purposes, acting as a design element in landscaping, defining spaces, or providing terraced garden areas. They can enhance the overall appearance of outdoor spaces, making them both practical and decorative.

How Do I Know I Need a Retaining Wall?

Steep slopes on your property can benefit from retaining walls since they minimize erosion. If you often notice pools of water accumulating after rainfall, a retaining wall can help direct this runoff and protect your landscape.

For those looking to elevate their garden’s aesthetics, retaining walls can be a design choice, creating terraces or emphasizing certain areas. They also serve as crucial defences, shielding structures from encroaching soil.

What Materials Are Commonly Used for Retaining Walls?

Several materials can be used for retaining walls, each offering unique benefits. The most common ones include:

Natural Stone: This offers a timeless aesthetic, with types like armour stone, and flagstone being popular choices.
Concrete Blocks: These are strong, durable, and can be designed to look like natural stone.
Timber: Though not as long-lasting as stone or concrete, wood offers a rustic appearance but may require replacement over time due to decay.
Brick: While less common, bricks can provide a classic look and substantial strength.

How Tall Should My Retaining Wall Be?

The height of a retaining wall is primarily determined by the materials used and local building codes. Generally, gravity walls (those that rely on their weight) can be up to 3-4 feet tall. Taller walls, especially those over 4 feet, typically require additional reinforcement and should be designed by professionals. Always check local regulations when planning a retaining wall.

What Are the General Steps for Building a Retaining Wall?

Site Assessment: Start by assessing the site, noting the slope, type of soil, and any water drainage issues.
Design & Planning: Decide on the height, length, materials, and layout of the wall. If it’s a larger wall, consider consulting a professional.
Digging the Trench: Dig a trench that’s deep and wide enough to accommodate the base material and the first row of your wall material.
Laying the Base: Fill the trench with a layer of base material (like gravel) and compact it. This provides a solid foundation.
Building the Wall: Starting from the lowest point, lay the first row of materials, ensuring they’re level. Continue stacking, making sure to offset the seams for added stability.
Install Drainage: Place a drainage pipe behind the wall, covering it with gravel. This prevents water buildup, which can damage the wall.
Backfilling: As you build the wall, backfill it with gravel to support and stabilize it.
Finishing Touches: Once the desired height is achieved, cap the wall if necessary and landscape around it.

Do I Need Drainage for My Retaining Wall?

Absolutely. Drainage is crucial for the longevity of a retaining wall. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate behind the wall, increasing pressure and potentially causing the wall to fail. Installing gravel and drainage pipes behind the wall helps direct water away, reducing the risk of damage.

How Do I Ensure My Retaining Wall is Stable?

Stability is achieved through a proper foundation, correct design, and the right materials. Typically, a trench is dug and filled with a base material like gravel. The wall should lean slightly into the soil it’s retaining (this is called a ‘batter’). Using geogrids, which are mesh-like materials, can also reinforce the wall.

Can I Build a Retaining Wall Myself?

While small, decorative retaining walls are a relatively accessible DIY project, larger wall projects, especially those over 3-4 feet, should involve professionals. This ensures the wall is structurally sound, adheres to local codes, and has proper drainage.

What Can I Plant Near My Retaining Wall?

Planting near a retaining wall can enhance its aesthetic and help with drainage. Opt for plants with deep roots for erosion control, like shrubs and certain perennials. Avoid trees or plants with expansive root systems, as they can compromise the wall’s integrity.

How Do I Choose the Right Retaining Wall Material for My Project?

When selecting materials for a retaining wall, consider factors like durability, aesthetics, and cost. Natural stone is resilient and offers a timeless appeal, while concrete blocks provide strength and can be cost-effective. Wood, although organic and rustic-looking, may decay over time. It’s essential to research various options and perhaps consult with local professionals or suppliers to ensure the chosen material aligns with the project’s purpose, desired look, and local conditions.

What Is the Best Type of Stone for Retaining Walls?

When considering natural stones for retaining walls, think of practicality without compromising on appearance. Armour stone is renowned for its robustness and can withstand harsh conditions. Flagstone, being flat, is easy to work with and creates a sleek, even finish. Remember, the right stone makes all the difference in the wall’s longevity and visual appeal.

How Long Can I Expect My Retaining Wall to Last?

The lifespan of a retaining wall depends on the installation, materials used, and maintenance. Concrete and stone walls can last for decades, often 50-100 years, with proper care. Timber walls have a shorter lifespan, typically between 10-20 years, due to potential decay.

Building a Retaining Wall? Here’s Why You Should Choose Grand River Natural Stone

Builders, landscapers, and homeowners from across Southwestern Ontario trust us for quality, variety, and value. Our competitive pricing, unparalleled product range, and commitment to customer service make us industry leaders.

Building a retaining wall is an investment in both form and function. With Grand River Natural Stone, you get the assurance of quality, variety, and unmatched customer service. Contact us today to get your project started!

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Can Ledgerock Be Used On Retaining Walls? Our Experts Answer

Grand River Natural Stone — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 19:47:04 +0000

Ledgerock is a wonderful option for landscaping, offering natural beauty and durability. Its unique layers and earthy tones can enhance any outdoor space, whether you’re creating a cozy patio, a charming garden path, or stylish coping around a pool. However, it’s important to remember that some uses may not be appropriate. In this blog we evaluate whether ledgerock can be used on retaining walls.

Can Ledgerock be used on retaining walls?

Although not the best choice for structure, ledgerock works perfectly as stone veneer over wire frame work or concrete for your retaining walls. This style of stone is known for its weight and durability, making it suitable for all-weather applications in your garden and yard. Additionally, ledgerock is often cut in uniform shapes, panels, or sizes, making it easy to clad an existing structure with.

Rather than a structural element, consider lederock products for coping, veneering and accessorizing. You’ll need a more sturdy type of stone or block for the functional elements of a retaining wall.

Structural Needs of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls must withstand immense lateral earth pressure, which increases with height and soil saturation. Proper structural integrity begins with a well-engineered foundation—typically a compacted gravel base or reinforced concrete footing—to prevent settling and shifting. Drainage is critical; weep holes, perforated pipes, and granular backfill relieve hydrostatic pressure that can lead to failure. Material selection matters, whether it’s poured concrete, segmental blocks, or natural stone, with reinforcement such as geogrid or rebar ensuring longevity. Proper slope considerations, tiered designs, and adherence to local building codes further guarantee stability, making structural planning essential for durability and function.

What is Stone Coping?

Stone coping refers to the use of stone materials to cap or finish the top of a wall or structure. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing protection against weather elements while enhancing the visual appeal of the building. Stone coping can be made from various types of stone, such as granite, limestone, ledgerock or sandstone, and is often used in landscaping, masonry, and architectural designs.

What Other Materials Can be Used to Build Retaining Walls?

Retaining walls play an important role in preventing soil erosion and supporting sloped landscapes. In addition to ledgestone, there are several other materials you can use for building retaining walls, including:

Masonry stones
Bricks
Interlock blocks
Concrete
Timber

Each material offers its own unique look and benefits, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and tastes when choosing what to use.

Get the Supplies You Need Today

At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide range of materials to help you build the perfect retaining wall. Our experts will work with you to choose the best material and design that meets your needs and budget. Come visit us today and get equipped for your next project!

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DIY Retaining Walls Construction

Grand River Natural Stone — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 10:57:56 +0000

Constructing a DIY retaining wall isn’t a job to be taken lightly. To ensure the wall is stable and safe, it’s important to use materials that are engineered to the wall’s specifications, and then to construct the wall correctly. In this guide, we will demystify the process and give you straight forward tips to follow for safe DIY retaining wall construction.

Although you can install a retaining wall yourself, we still recommend calling in a professional. If, after reading the steps below you’re not sure or aren’t feeling 100% confident about tackling this project alone, consider consulting with a professional first. You can still do much of the work yourself with some expert input.

What Do We Mean by Retaining Walls?

The goal of this guide is to help you understand the process of building a retaining wall. These walls aren’t just intended to look pretty, but to provide functionality to your landscape by holding back hills and managing water or drainage. They’re larger than garden walls and you must take more care to ensure they are installed properly. Keep in mind that every manufacturer has different guidelines for how the walls should be used, with heights varying everywhere from two feet to six feet.

Materials You Need for a Retaining Wall

Retaining walls aren’t just stone. Here are the most common materials you’ll need for complete construction:

Gravel: This is the base and back fill material. You’ll need enough gravel to fill 4 to 8 inches of the base of the wall. Then you’ll need drainage stone for the back fill.
Filter fabric: Without filter fabric your wall won’t last very long. It keeps the gravel separated from the top soil to ensure good drainage.
Stones: You should choose a manufactured stone that is engineered for larger retaining walls. The size of stone doesn’t actually matter, rather it’s more the specification and design of the stones as listed by the manufacturer.

Step by Step DIY Retaining Wall Installation Guide

Once you have the design confirmed and materials you need, it’s time to start the process of building your retaining wall. Here are our recommended steps:

Excavation. Mark out where your wall will be and remove sod and other landscaping from this area. Excavate the trench to the correct depth, based on the desired height of the wall. We can help you determine how deep you’ll need to dig for your wall.

Add Base Material. Line the excavated area with a non-woven filter fabric and add base material in the trench directly on the fabric. Compact the trench using hand tools or machinery and add in the base gravel. Compact the gravel in lifts of 4” at a time to ensure a solid base.

Level. Add the first layer of stones in the trench. Ensure each individual stone is level and that the base layer is level as a whole. Any small variance here will impact the wall substantially as you build. Now place the drainage pipe directly behind the first layer of stone and slope it slightly to a low area to drain. Continue to backfill the wall with drainage stone over top of the drainage pipe up to the first layer of stone. Compact the drainage stone backfill for stability.

Stack Appropriately. Continue adding stone and backfill layer by layer. Continue until the wall has reached the height you planned for. By the time you see a curve in your wall, it is too late to fix it. You should stop building and get a professional’s advice immediately. A curve means that your materials or stack method is improper, and you are putting yourself at risk if you leave it.

Cap Stone and Back Fill. Once everything is stabilized and at the correct finished height, you can add the cap stones to the wall to add a decorative finish. Finish backfilling with drainage stone where necessary according to your design and wrap your fabric over top of the drainage stone and compact once again. Complete the wall by adding topsoil and grade to the desired contour.

Clean up. Tidy up the area around the retaining wall, double checking the finish and clearing away any debris or tools.

Get Professional Advice Anytime

While it’s enjoyable and rewarding to construct a retaining wall yourself, you don’t want to take chances with your safety or the safety of others. Your DIY retaining wall construction isn’t complete until you’ve had a professional inspect your work so be sure to reach out to a trusted source such as Grand River Natural Stone for final approval.

Need help to complete your wall? We can help you with every aspect of DIY retaining wall construction. Reach out to us at Grand River Natural Stone today.

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4 Best Retaining Wall Materials & Things To Consider

Grand River Natural Stone — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 02:17:39 +0000

Retaining walls are one of the most dramatic and effective ways to improve the appearance of your home landscape while increasing the amount of useable space in your yard. If you want to expand the area for a patio project or create raised planting beds, a retaining wall is often your best option. There are a number of precast blocks suitable for retaining wall construction. While the appearance and colour of blocks you select are a matter of personal preference, there are other considerations that will affect your choice of wall material, in particular, the height of the wall.

Why is Wall Height Important?

Retaining walls are designed to hold back soil and earth. The taller they are, the stronger they need to be. Soil, particularly wet soil, will exert pressure on the back of the wall. For low retaining walls, approximately two feet tall or less, there are many options for wall materials. Once the wall height reaches the two to three-foot range, look at retaining wall blocks that are specifically engineered for more demanding situations.

1. Low Retaining Wall Materials

For retaining walls that are two feet tall or less, consider using natural wall stone or concrete interlocking blocks. The wall stone can be guillotined or random and comes in a variety of colours: beige, brown, charcoal and shades of gray. The size of the wall stone varies, but about 4-8 inches high and 6-8 inches deep is typical. The interlocking blocks also come in a range of colours and textures and also with similar dimensions. Two or three rows of stacked wall stone are enough to create an attractive, natural-looking retaining wall. Low walls also work well as places to sit and can add a lot of potential seating spots to your outdoor patio.

Want to learn more about the best materials for your retaining walls? Give our team at Grand River Natural Stone a call today.

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2. Medium Height Retaining Walls

For walls that are two and a half feet or taller, it is best to use an interlocking retaining wall block or armour stone. Interlocking wall blocks have grooves and beads that keep the blocks in place, protecting against shifting due to soil pressure. There are several manufacturers that make this type of product. You can choose from a variety of styles and colours. The blocks are designed to make installation relatively easy.

Armour stone also works well for medium to tall walls. Most armour stone is approximately 20-30 inches high by 24-36 inches deep and 2 or more feet in length. Its large size makes it a good option for a medium to tall retaining wall with beautiful, natural-looking results.

3. Tall Retaining Walls

Once your wall reaches a height of four feet, special considerations may be called for. The type of soil you have and the conditions behind the wall become more important. Talk to your landscape supply company to see if additional assistance for the design of your wall is needed.

Additional Materials for Retaining Wall Construction

As with other types of landscape construction, the parts of retaining walls you don’t see are crucial to the success of the final product. Retaining walls should be built on a compacted base of drainage stone or clear stone. The stone layer is usually 10 – 12 inches deep; taller walls need more stone. This reduces the amount of water pressure on the wall. Perforated drain pipe should be added as part of this base construction, behind and below the wall to carry water away.

Due to the size and weight of retaining wall blocks and stone, site access is an important consideration. Interlocking wall units are somewhat easier to move than large natural stone and armour stone. If you have a backyard that heavy machinery cannot get to, interlocking units may be your best choice.

Regardless of your site conditions and design style preference, there are numerous retaining wall materials to choose from. Talk to your landscape supplier and visit their display yard to see your options in person. It’s the first step in making a long-lasting, functional and attractive improvement to your home landscape.

Visit a Grand River Stone location today.

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Using Armour Stone to Build a Retaining Wall

Grand River Natural Stone — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 03:37:49 +0000

Armour stone is a large, thick and heavy rock which lends well to its wall building capabilities.

Their sheer size can be supplemented by a simple locking mechanism, such as a built-in lip on the bottom, to ensure a solidly built wall.

Getting started

Whether you’re looking to build a retaining wall or a raised garden area the same basic materials are needed

The stones themselves
1/2” gravel
Landscaping fabric

If you’ve never built an armour stone wall before, you will benefit greatly from the assistance of a contractor. The calculations and precise placement can be a bit tricky, and a well-versed professional can take all the guesswork out of it.

Armour Stone Supplies

Here’s a breakdown of what your contractor will be doing will be doing step by step:

Working with you to determine the desired height of the wall and calculating the number and size of stones required.
Digging a trench twice the width and to the required depth for a proper foundation.
Laying down the landscaping fabric. This vital step keeps plants and weeds from growing under the wall and pushing it out of level.
Installing the gravel base. It will be at least 2” deep depending on how high your wall will be. The contractor will ensure the base is level with some sort of compacting device.
The armour stones are stacked one on top of the other. They will likely be set with each tone slightly behind the other so that the lip built into them can lock into one another when the ground pushes forward against them. The weight of the armour stone itself, this lip, and the angle of incline are what keep the wall in place and the ground held back.

A retaining wall adds structure and formality to your landscape, just be sure it’s designed, installed, and maintained correctly.

Got more questions?

Do you have more questions about armour stone or retaining walls? Contact a Grand River Stone expert today!

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