The Ultimate Guide to Rock Retaining Walls for Homeowners and Real Estate Investors
Rock retaining walls are an excellent addition to your property for various reasons. They are aesthetically pleasing, add value to your home, prevent erosion, and provide a stable foundation for landscaping. While rock walls can last for decades, it’s crucial to hire the right company and ensure they provide quality services. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in a company, their licensing requirements, and the services they should provide.
1. What to Ask a Company
Before hiring a company to install your rock retaining wall, there are essential questions to ask. The first is whether they have experience in installing rock walls. An experienced company knows how to design and install the wall correctly and can provide guidance on the best approach for your property. Ensure you ask for references and photos of previous work done to see the quality of their work.
The second question to ask is about their insurance policy. A reputable company should have liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage protects you from liability in case of accidents on your property. Ensure you ask for insurance certificates and contact the insurance company to confirm their validity.
Lastly, ask for a detailed estimate outlining the scope of work, the materials used, and the cost. This information helps you compare different companies and choose the one that offers the best value for your money.
2. What to Look for as far as Licensing
In most states, installing a retaining wall requires a license. Ensure you hire a company that is licensed to operate in your area. A licensed company has met the state’s requirements, has skilled workers, and can provide quality services. You can verify their license online or contact your state’s licensing board. Hiring an unlicensed company can result in substandard work, violations, and fines.
3. What Services Should Include
When installing a rock retaining wall, the company should provide various services. The first is site preparation, which involves analyzing the area and determining the best approach. The company then excavates the area and creates a level foundation.
The second service is designing and building the wall. A skilled company designs the wall according to the area’s terrain, soil type, and your preference. They should provide you with a 3D design that shows the wall’s look before installation.
The third service is installation, which involves placing the rocks in the correct order and arrangement. The company should ensure the wall is stable and well-drained to prevent water accumulation.
4. Maintenance
Once the wall is installed, it requires maintenance to last long. The company should provide you with maintenance guidelines and schedule periodic inspections. They should also be available to fix any damages or issues that arise after the installation.
5. Benefits of Installing a Rock Retaining Wall
There are various benefits of installing a rock retaining wall on your property. The first is its aesthetics; a well-designed wall enhances your property’s beauty and value. The wall also prevents erosion, which protects your landscape and prevents foundation damage. It provides a stable foundation for landscaping and allows you to utilize your property’s slopes and uneven terrain. Finally, the wall requires minimal maintenance and can last for decades, providing value for your investment.
Rock retaining walls are a valuable addition to your home or investment property. When hiring a company, ensure you ask essential questions, check their licensing, consider the services they provide, and prioritize maintenance. The benefits of installing a rock retaining wall are numerous, and it’s a worthwhile investment for any homeowner or real estate investor.