Give us a call: 250-766-3519
Experienced Contractors for Constructing Retaining Walls in Kelowna
Are you considering adding a retaining wall to your agricultural, commercial or residential property? We at Digg'N 4 U Contracting Ltd can help construct your retaining wall in Kelowna. We can safely add one to your property without causing any damage to the surrounding landscape. Our team of professionals also offers site preparation services, and we can also use rocks or other viable materials to complete durable retaining wall constructions quickly and efficiently. Our team has years of experience planning and constructing retaining walls in Kelowna for all purposes.
At Digg'N 4 U Contracting Ltd, we are committed to making the lives of property managers and other clients easier by providing a range of solutions. Our 30+ years of experience have given us a deep understanding of the area's property requirements. Whether you require retaining walls in Kelowna for functional purposes or aesthetics, we can help. Speak to our team, and we will happily answer your questions and give you a free quote.
Why Build Retaining Walls in Kelowna and Surrounding Areas?
Retaining walls are created to hold soil at a lateral or near lateral angle to change ground elevation and plateau the property. They enable you to hold soil and prevent it from collapsing on one side. These walls have been popularly utilized both for their utility and to enhance the appearance of a property. They can optimize the use of space and perform other functions, such as preventing soil erosion. Retaining walls might be useful in the following conditions:
-
When the uphill side is under pressure from sliding soil
-
When water causes erosion in sloped landscapes
-
For areas that are downhill from soil fault lines
-
For decorative purposes on both commercial and residential properties
-
And more
If you require retaining wall construction in Kelowna, please get in touch with us today.
Types of Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are made of strong enough materials to hold or 'retain' the dirt and soil. They can be placed in countless areas such as yards, flowerbeds and back gardens to prevent rain, erosion or other phenomena from causing the soil to spread and the structures to collapse. The following are four primary types of retaining walls:
-
Gravity retaining walls: These walls are short in height and rely on other mass to keep the soil in place. This means that they can be built using diverse materials and are easier to build than other types of retaining walls.
-
Reinforced retaining walls: Reinforced retaining walls, or cantilevered retaining walls, are incredibly sturdy because they have foundational support. They run in an L-shape, with the primary part above the ground and keeping the soil in place. The shorter part goes under the bed. The weight of the dirt on the slab prevents the wall from falling forward.
-
Sheet piling retaining walls: Sheet piling walls denote a thin piece of material being driven into the ground by the soil. The material is usually steel, wood or vinyl. They're a good choice if the soil is soft and there is a lack of space.
-
Anchored retaining walls: As the term suggests, these walls use anchors driven into the ground to support the structure. The anchors expand in the ground with the help of mechanical or pressurized means from above.
Would you like to learn more about our retaining walls in Kelowna? Please reach out. We can also provide you with excavation services.
Retaining Wall Maintenance - Tips for Long-term Durability
Retaining walls add beauty and functionality to your landscape. They hold back soil on slopes, creating usable space in your yard and preventing erosion. But like any structure, retaining walls require maintenance to stay solid and appealing for years.
How do you keep your retaining wall in optimal shape? By following these easy maintenance leads, you can expand the lifespan of your wall and prevent expensive repairs in the future.
Drainage is Vital
Ensuring appropriate drainage is critical for maintaining retaining walls. Water buildup behind the wall can put immense pressure on it, leading to cracks, bulging, and even collapse. Here's how to ensure your drainage system is functioning adequately:
-
Weep holes are tiny openings in the wall that allow water to drain away. Inspect them for clogs caused by dirt, debris, or plant growth. Clear any blockages to ensure proper drainage.
-
Direct water away from the wall by grading the soil so it naturally slopes away. Ensure your gutters function correctly and that downspouts discharge water away from the wall.
-
​Some retaining walls may have built-in drainage pipes behind them. If you suspect your wall has such a system, ensure the outlet is clear and functioning correctly.
Plant Power
While weeds can be a nuisance around your retaining wall, strategically planted vegetation can be beneficial. Here's how plants can contribute to your wall's longevity:
-
Plants with deep-rooted systems help to anchor the soil behind the wall, adding stability. Opt for low-growing, drought-tolerant varieties to avoid putting extra strain on the wall with excessive watering.
-
​Plants that require a lot of water and nutrients can disrupt the drainage system and compromise the wall's stability.
Do Not Ignore Cracks
While minor hairline cracks may not cause much harm, larger cracks can signify structural issues. Here's what you need to remember:
-
Hairline cracks: These thin cracks are often superficial and may not pose an immediate threat. However, monitor them for any widening over time.
-
Bulging or leaning: If your wall bulges outwards or leans in any direction, it's a red flag and requires immediate attention from a professional.
-
Horizontal cracks: Cracks that run parallel to the ground can suggest significant structural problems and warrant professional evaluation.
Cleaning and Sealing
Keeping your retaining wall clean and sealed can enhance its appearance and protect it from the elements:
-
Remove dirt, grime, and stains from the wall's surface with a mild detergent and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material.
Applying an apt sealant can protect your retaining wall from UV rays, water damage and staining. The sealant depends on the material of your retaining wall. That is why we suggest referring to an experienced expert to assess the type of sealant for your wall.
Professional help is essential if you see significant cracks, leaning walls or bulging.
Why Choose Us?
Over the years, we have constructed countless retaining walls in Kelowna. Our commitment to providing our clients like you has enabled us to grow with long-lasting solutions that are an asset to their property. There are many reasons to choose our services, such as:
-
Experience: We have years of experience constructing retaining walls and can build yours with expertise.
-
Comprehensive services: We can provide services to all clients and properties.
-
Personalized solutions: We don't force our approach on you. Our team will carefully assess your unique requirements to provide individualized solutions.
-
Excellent customer services: With us, you can expect stress-free services and complete transparency.
Contact Digg'N 4 U Contracting Ltd in Kelowna
If you'd like to learn more about our services or get a quote, please give us a call.
Durable Retaining Walls in Kelowna
If you need help with the construction of retaining walls in Kelowna, we are the people to call.
Address the Backfill
The backfill material behind your retaining wall is vital to its stability. Here's how to ensure it's doing its job:
-
Don't allow branches, leaves or other debris to accumulate behind the wall. This can trap moisture and affect drainage.
-
The suitable material should be well-draining and compacted to prevent settling. Avoid using organic materials like wood chips or leaves, which can decompose and create voids.
-
Over time, erosion can wash away backfill material. Regularly inspect the backfill for signs of erosion and replenish any lost materials.