When Does a Slope Need a Retaining Wall?

It’s important for safety and legal reasons to have a properly constructed retaining wall where needed. The good news is, it’s pretty easy to determine when you need a retaining wall, outside of aesthetic reasons. This is one of the most commonly asked questions of homeowners who ask us about retaining walls in their backyard.

The maximum slope for the soil you can safely go without having a retaining wall is 35 degrees.

This is especially important to keep in mind if the soil is granular. If the slope of your angle is steeper than 35 degrees, you will need a retaining wall to keep the landscape in place.

The lean should be minimum of 1:12 (1 inch per 12 inches of height) to ensure the load is evenly distributed to the wall. This recommendation will also allow for proper drainage of the soil. Wet soil and water buildup against any structure can be very detrimental, not only because it is heavier, but also erodes many compounds. Proper irrigation and drainage for your retaining wall and sloped yard is a necessary, and should be taken seriously. When landscape walls collapse, it can be bother dangerous and costly.

Do you have questions about the slope of your San Diego backyard or need a quote on a retaining wall?

Contact us today and one of our project managers will come to your property for a proper assessment, all for free.