On the site, which has a slope and a rather intricate relief, very often a retaining wall with its own hands is created, allowing to create special terraces for growing various plants. Such structures on a flat territory allow to designate the elevated part of the garden, visually dividing it into separate functional zones. Thus it is possible to form excellent conditions for bushes and trees in places with a close groundwater table. When the wall is made by hand, in any case, the original relief with a large garden is obtained. It is quite possible to combine such a structure with the base of the house, having achieved a magnificent aesthetic effect.
More often, a retaining wall with its own hands is carried out, having a height of not more than one and a half meters. It belongs to the category of lightweight structures, therefore it enjoys immense popularity among young gardeners. When erected it does not require enormous financial costs - in contrast to the situation with capital terracing. Similar facilities can be made from almost any improvised material. However, lightweight structures are characterized by a low load-bearing capacity, primarily due to the lack of a quality foundation.
The simplest retaining wall, built by hand, can be made quickly enough, especially when it comes to wooden construction. This option involves the use of flat logs with a diameter of up to 200 mm. The lower part is treated with special antiseptic means to protect the structure from decay. Logs are driven into the ground next to each other. The minimum depth should be at least forty centimeters, which, in turn, will allow the structure to transfer loads.
It is much less common to build a retaining wall made of stone, because it requires considerable labor and financial expenses. In this case, a qualitative foundation is needed, capable of withstanding the weight of the material and the pressure of the soil. First you have to prepare a trench, repeating the contour of the structure. Then concrete is poured, and after its hardening stones are laid out. A very important role is played by the method of laying, which directly affects the strength of the entire structure. Experts recommend to abandon the option with the formation of cruciform sutures. It is best to apply the classical method, when the joints overlap the central part of the stone of a certain row.
Also, a retaining wall with its own hands made of concrete, which is a single facet or a multifaceted structure, is rarely built. This option assumes a reliable foundation in the form of a strip foundation. The structure can be complete or consist of separate elements, so it becomes possible to organize interesting architectural delights. Concrete walls do not always have a reinforcing skeleton; therefore, to improve the strength characteristics, it is recommended to strengthen the seams with metal wire.