The Top Mistakes When Installing Retaining Walls That Fox Chapel Homeowners Make in Their Landscape Design
Retaining walls are essential for preventing erosion and enhancing your outdoor living space, making your yard more functional. However, mistakes can be costly when homeowners in Fox Chapel or the surrounding area attempt to tackle their landscaping projects. At Missing Link Landscaping and Excavation, a trusted landscape company specializing in hardscaping and excavation, we’ve seen firsthand how DIY retaining walls can fail without proper planning and drainage solutions. Whether you need a retaining wall to boost curb appeal, increase property value, or create the perfect outdoor living space, we share some common mistakes to avoid. Contact us today to get the retaining wall of your dreams without the hassle.
Poor Drainage Planning
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not considering drainage. A retaining wall that lacks proper drainage is a ticking time bomb. Water builds up behind the wall, causing pressure that can lead to cracking or collapse. At Missing Link, we install drainage pipes and proper backfill to ensure your wall can handle the elements. That’s how you begin any masterful landscaping project.
Skimping on the Foundation
Another common issue is not digging a deep enough base. A shallow foundation can cause the wall to shift or sink over time. At Missing Link, we always dig below the frost line to ensure your concrete retaining walls remain stable throughout the Pittsburgh area’s freeze-thaw cycles. This is a crucial part of our installation process, ensuring the wall is durable and visually appealing for years to come. If the base isn’t rock-solid, the entire structure, including your landscaping and hardscaping, is at risk. That’s why our design and installation services focus on both aesthetics and long-term stability.
Choosing the Wrong Materials for your Outdoor Living Space
Homeowners often select materials based on appearance alone, without considering functionality. While certain stones might look great for your outdoor space or patio, they may not be suitable for taller or more complex retaining wall designs. At Missing Link, we always help you choose materials that are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound for your specific landscape design and landscaping project. Whether you need a hardscape or landscape solution, we ensure the right materials are used to enhance your property value and improve the overall functionality of your outdoor living space.
Ignoring Fox Chapel and Area Building Codes
In some areas, like Fox Chapel, you may need a permit to install a retaining wall over a certain height. Ignoring local regulations can result in fines or being forced to remove the wall altogether. At Missing Link Landscaping and Excavation, we specialize in managing every detail of your landscaping project, including the permitting process, ensuring everything is up to code. Whether you need a retaining wall to enhance your outdoor living space, improve property value, or provide erosion and drainage control, we’re the landscape company you can trust. From Cranberry Township to Fox Chapel and the surrounding area, contact us today to get started on creating your ideal outdoor space.
Failing to Plan for Long-Term Durability
A retaining wall is an investment, and you want it to last. DIY installations often overlook long-term durability, especially when it comes to soil compaction and erosion control. At Missing Link, we use industry-best practices in every installation process to ensure your wall stands strong for years to come. Retaining walls are a great addition to any property, blending seamlessly with your landscape while providing essential support to prevent erosion and protect your soil and plants. Whether you’re a commercial property owner or a Fox Chapel homeowner, our team always delivers quality workmanship. Work with us to bring your vision to life, and let’s discuss your project during your first design consultation.
Contact Us Today
Don’t let your dream of a beautiful and functional retaining wall turn into a nightmare of costly repairs. Contact Missing Link Landscaping and Excavation for a free consultation and learn about our retaining wall installation process. Whether you’re in the Pittsburgh area or Fox Chapel, we offer design and installation services that ensure your wall is built to last. From erosion control to drainage solutions, we handle it all. You can also check out our latest landscaping and hardscaping projects on our YouTube channel and see how we bring visions to life with quality workmanship.