A strong landscape project is easier to price, build and maintain when the important decisions are made in the right order.
Water creates pressure
Soil behind a wall becomes much heavier when saturated. Without a reliable path for water to leave, pressure builds against the wall face.
The base establishes alignment
A properly excavated and compacted base supports the first course. Small errors at the bottom become visible and structural problems as the wall gets taller.
Free-draining aggregate matters
Clean drainage stone behind the wall creates space for water to move downward rather than becoming trapped in fine soil.
Water still needs an outlet
Drainage material alone is not enough. The system needs a planned outlet that can discharge without eroding another part of the property.
Some walls require engineering
Height, slope, nearby structures, driveways and additional loads may require reinforcement or professional engineering. Site conditions should determine the system—not appearance alone.
Turn the advice into a site-specific plan.
Dave's Landscaping can evaluate the property, priorities and practical constraints in person.
Request a consultation