Everything You Need to Know About Boulder Retaining Wall Landscaping in Swain County
Looking to add structure and definition to your residential landscape? The Boulder Retaining Wall Landscaping in Swain County is an ideal choice as it not only has a natural look but also blends seamlessly with other outdoor features, bringing a beautiful and harmonious touch to your space.
Planning to incorporate it on your property? We have compiled a guide of everything you need to know that will help you make an informed decision.
Why Boulder Retaining Wall Landscaping in Swain County is a Must-Have
Before we start exploring the technicalities of boulder retaining walls, let’s take a look at why building them on your property is important:
1. Erosion Control
Swain County experiences rain all year round; therefore, most properties include slopes that are prone to erosion. Boulder retaining walls effectively hold back soil, preventing erosion caused by rainfall, runoff, or gravity, which maintains the integrity of the landscape and prevents soil loss.
2. Stability and Support
Boulder retaining walls will provide essential structural support if your land is uneven or has steep slopes. They stabilize the land, preventing landslides or slippage and ensuring safety for properties and their residents.
3. Property Value
Next, a well-constructed boulder wall increases property value as it makes your outdoors more usable, safe, and attractive.
4. Terracing and Space Utilization
Properties that are built on sloped terrains can use Boulder Retaining Wall Landscaping in Swain County for terracing, creating leveled areas for planting gardens, installing pathways, or creating usable outdoor spaces.
Construction Process
Constructing these walls is challenging, so the experts follow these steps to build a long-lasting, durable wall:
1. Site Preparation
They begin by clearing the land of debris, vegetation, and any obstacles. Once it’s done, they level the ground and create a stable base by digging a trench to place the first layer of boulders perfectly.
2. Placement of Boulders
The next step includes stacking boulders and interlocking them for stability. They start by placing larger stones in the base, and smaller ones go on top. Further, they keep backfilling behind the wall with gravel so that boulders stay in place.
3. Drainage Considerations
Once the boulders are placed, the experts install drainage pipes to redirect water away from the structure, preventing pressure buildup.
Variety of Boulders Available in the Market
When building a boulder retaining wall, you will come across many options in the market. Some of the best ones are:
1. Granite Boulders
Known for their durability and strength, granite boulders are a popular choice for boulder retaining wall landscaping in Swain County as they can withstand weathering and erosion well.
2. Limestone Boulders
Limestone is another durable option that comes in various colors, ranging from light to dark tones. They are resilient and fit well with other landscape elements and designs.
3. Sandstone Boulders
Sandstone comes in a diverse range of textures, making it a versatile choice for retaining walls. No matter how customized your home’s exterior is, you will find a sandstone boulder that will complement your surroundings beautifully.
4. Fieldstone Boulders
These are natural stones collected from fields or quarries. They often have irregular shapes and provide a rustic and natural-looking retaining wall.
5. Quartzite Boulders
Lastly, you can also get quartzite boulders, as they are hard and durable with a crystalline appearance.
3 Best Designs for Boulders Retaining Walls You Must Consider
For Boulder Retaining Wall Landscaping in Swain County, here are some popular designs that you can use:
1. Dry-Stacked Boulder Walls
These walls utilize large boulders stacked strategically without mortar. They rely on the rocks’ natural shape and interlocking properties for stability. This wall has natural gaps, which look visually appealing if your home is surrounded by mountainous terrain, as it has a rustic and natural appearance.
2. Mortared Boulder Walls
If you want a clean and structured look, you can opt for mortar boulder walls because they involve using concrete to secure boulders.
These walls have a more careful arrangement, which provides a more polished and smoother surface.
3. Cantilevered Boulder Walls
This style of boulder retaining wall landscaping in Swain County involves positioning boulders in a slanted or angled manner to create a sloped wall that resists pressure from the soil. Cantilevered walls look very contemporary because they have a very geometric look.
Permitting for Retaining Walls
If your boulder retaining wall exceeds 4 feet in height, then you need to acquire permits that involve complying with local building codes and might require you to submit your designs and plans to ensure safety and adherence to regulations.
Conclusion
Creating durable and visually appealing walls demands careful planning and execution. This guide will equip you with the essential knowledge to oversee the process, guaranteeing a wall that looks good and protects your property against erosion and water pooling.
Use our guide for boulder retaining wall landscaping in Swain County to decide whether this rugged retaining wall is a good option for your home.
