Have you ever looked out at your backyard and thought, “I really need to fix this slope”? Maybe you’re dealing with soil erosion that’s slowly eating away at your yard, or you’re dreaming of leveling things out for the perfect patio or outdoor living space. A retaining wall sounds like the answer – but the real question is whether you should take the DIY route or bring in a professional.
If you’re stuck between tackling it yourself or calling in the experts, you’re not alone. Many homeowners weigh the costs, effort, and risks before making a decision. To help you figure out the best move, we’ll break down the facts – and if you’re ready for a lasting solution, our professional retaining wall construction services are here to build strength and beauty into your outdoor space.
The Basics: What Does a Retaining Wall Actually Do?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of DIY vs. professional, let’s talk about why retaining walls exist in the first place. They’re not just there to make your yard look pretty (though they can definitely help with that).
The main purpose is to hold back soil and prevent erosion, especially in sloped areas. If you’ve got water pooling in spots or hills that seem to be shifting every time it rains, a retaining wall might be what saves your landscape from disaster.
Retaining walls also help with drainage control, making sure water doesn’t just sit around, creating a muddy mess. And if you’ve been wanting to level out your yard for a patio, garden, or even a driveway extension, a properly built retaining wall can make it happen.
When DIY Might Be an Option
Alright, let’s be real – sometimes, a DIY retaining wall is possible. If you’re thinking about a small wall, say under three feet high, and your yard has relatively stable soil, you might be able to pull this off without too much trouble.
You’ll need some basic tools like a shovel, level, tamper, and a wheelbarrow. The most important part? Make sure your base is solid, your blocks are level, and you have proper drainage behind the wall.
If you’re the handy type and enjoy weekend projects, a small retaining wall could be a fun challenge. Plus, you’ll save on labor costs (but don’t forget materials still add up). That said, here’s the catch – retaining walls need to be structurally sound, and one wrong move can lead to serious problems down the road.
The Red Flags: When You Should Call a Professional
Now, if your wall needs to be more than three or four feet high, that’s a different story. The taller the wall, the more force it has to withstand, and that means you need to get the engineering right. If you’re dealing with any of the following, it’s time to bring in the experts:
1. Your Yard Has a Serious Slope
If your property has a steep incline, just stacking some bricks won’t cut it. You need proper reinforcement, and that involves understanding soil mechanics and using the right materials. Pros know how to handle slopes without creating a disaster.
2. You Notice Drainage Issues
Water is one of the biggest threats to retaining walls. Without a solid drainage system, water builds up behind the wall, creating pressure that can make it buckle or collapse. Professionals know how to install weep holes, drainage pipes, and the right type of backfill to keep your wall standing strong.
3. The Wall Will Be Over Four Feet Tall
Most cities require a permit for walls over four feet, and you might even need an engineer’s approval. A pro will make sure your wall meets building codes and is designed to last.
4. You Need to Reinforce the Wall
Retaining walls isn’t just about stacking bricks; they need reinforcement like rebar, tiebacks, or geogrids to keep them from leaning or failing over time. If your wall needs extra reinforcement, leave it to someone who’s done it before.
5. You’re Not Sure What Kind of Soil You’re Dealing With
Soil type plays a huge role in whether your retaining wall will last or crumble. Clay soil holds water, which adds pressure, while sandy soil can shift easily. A pro can analyze your soil and build accordingly.
6. You Just Don’t Have the Time or Equipment
Let’s be honest – building a retaining wall isn’t a quick weekend project. It takes time, effort, and equipment you might not have lying around (like plate compactors or excavators). If you don’t want to spend weeks on this, hiring a pro will get it done faster and with better results.
The Bottom Line: Should You DIY or Call a Pro?
So, should you take on the challenge or let an expert handle it? Here’s the short version:
- If your wall is under three feet, in stable soil, and doesn’t require complex drainage – go for it! Just do your research and take your time.
- If your wall is taller, needs reinforcement, or deals with tricky slopes and drainage – hire a professional. It’s not worth the risk of collapse, erosion, or costly mistakes.
At the end of the day, a retaining wall isn’t just a landscaping feature – it’s a structural element that protects your property. If you’re even slightly unsure about your ability to build it right, calling a professional is the smarter (and safer) choice.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re thinking about installing a retaining wall but don’t want the headache of figuring it all out yourself, we’ve got you covered. At NGL Concrete and Design, we specialize in high-quality retaining walls that stand the test of time.
Contact us today to get a consultation and let’s make your yard work for you, not against you.