Retaining walls, being multi-functional structures, are a popular means of forming slopes, protecting soil from erosion, and constructing footpaths on a non-level terrain. A primary purpose of the retaining walls is to be a footing for the soil which would otherwise erode or collapse.

Besides that, there are many obvious and practical uses for these structures in various areas. Hence, it is worth taking into account their unique features. Here in this guide, we will focus on the multifunctional qualities of retaining walls and highlight their practical uses in both residential and commercial buildings.

1.      Erosion Control and Slope Stabilization

One of the fundamental purposes of the retaining walls is silt control and sustainable slope stabilization. In mountainous or inclined landscapes, the retaining walls prevent the area from being eroded and landslides from happening using holding soil back. It acts as a stable support to unstable hills.

Through the use of retaining walls, you will be able to convert the unusable steep or uneven land into usable one. Aside from that, these walls will play an important role in improving the safety of these grounds and mitigating the risk of erosion and slope failure.

2.      Creating Usable Space

Walls can be formed across a slope to make terracing in areas with severe slopes or irregular figures. Using retaining walls, even the most slanted ground can be made usable. And you can generate extra ground on which to plant greenery, construct a path, or create public/private space used for patios, or play areas. The retention walls allow the homeowners and landscape developers to build several structures like deck building and amenities in their open space. These walls can create a surface that is flat and stable.

3.      Enhancing Landscape Design

Retaining walls are significant features of a landscape design that adds functionality and beauty to outdoor scenes. Retaining walls are versatile due to the availability of materials options, kinds of styles, and finishes options.

From naturally formed stone to purposefully built brick, concrete, and even timber, retaining walls can add texture and detail while certainly providing visual interest and definition to the landscapes of gardens, yards, and outdoor living spaces. It helps make them not only functional but beautiful as well.

4.      Managing Water Drainage

A lot of times retained walls are built to control water movement and water in landscaping during flooding or water runoff. For example, retention walls can be installed longitudinally along the slopes of curves so that water can be diverted from buildings, structures, and vulnerable areas instead of simply eroding them. Therefore, the destructive force of water can be significantly reduced.

5.      Supporting Infrastructure

For construction sites that have complex topography, the retaining wall has become critical in holding up structures. Houses built on such a slope or topography may have retaining walls to secure their foundations or to provide an even ground for the construction of an entrance, parking space, or driveway. Retaining walls are used to provide structural support to the buildings, roads, bridges, etc. built on tough terrain.