While you might not think that hardscaping tips in Pawtucket are any different from tips that would be used to build a backyard retaining wall anywhere else in the nation, the truth is that the type of natural stone materials and the methods used to create retaining walls can vary from location to location. The choices that you make in your own backyard right here in Pawtucket, Rhode Island might be different from the recommendations given to someone in California, Montana, Florida, Texas or even out on the Cape. The purpose of the project, as well as the materials that are used, can greatly affect the results. It is important to get your ideas and hardscaping tips in Pawtucket and not think that you will be able to apply all the ideas you find for Arizona homeowners to your northeastern home.
Types of Materials Used
When it comes time to build a backyard retaining wall, there are three different types of materials that are most commonly used right here in the South Coast. The first of these is standard concrete patio blocks; the second is a “split face” block that has the texture of natural stone materials on one side and a flat side on the other; and the third is manufactured blocks or paver materials that can be stacked and used to create walls. These can be dry stacked to create a low wall or reinforced with concrete and rebar, to create a taller, stronger structure.
Figuring out which type of material is best for your project can be as simple as making the choice based on what you think would look best in your backyard or as complex as making a selection based on what would hold back soil by providing the most strength and durability versus other materials or products. If you are unsure, speak with a professional, such as an installer if you won’t be learning how to build a backyard retaining wall for yourself, or one of the experienced sales reps at J&J Materials when you go to purchase your stone or concrete patio blocks.
Choosing the Technique or Method
As mentioned, there are a couple of different techniques or methods used to build a backyard retaining wall. The hardscaping tips in Pawtucket that you choose will depend on your property, the look or function that you hope to get out of the project and, of course, your budget. In addition to the property itself with all of its sloping and size requirements, professional installers must also consider the local climate and soils, as well as local building codes and requirements. This is why it is important to get your advice locally right here in the South Coast from an experienced materials company like J&J Materials. Anyone will sell you the materials that you want, but it is important to get the materials that will help your project to not just look great, but to perform beautifully through the years.
Interlocking Retaining Wall Using Concrete Patio Blocks
One of the most widely used solutions for homeowners who want to build a backyard retaining wall is basic concrete patio blocks. They provide strength, durability and structural integrity. Aesthetic options are now available, as these blocks have moved from the simple “cinder block” to now come in a number of different “split face” and decorative styles. Standard concrete patio blocks can be used for retaining walls, planters and as the base for larger backyard walls. The average block is 8 inches by 8 inches by 16 inches in length with two openings or cells that can be used for rebar to increase stability in larger projects over four feet in height. These units are designed to fit together or “interlock” properly to boost strength without requiring concrete or rebar be used for smaller structures.“Split Face” Concrete Patio Blocks
One of the great things about using the “split face” type of material to build a backyard retaining wall is that it has the look of natural stone materials but at a more affordable price. The texture that is added to one side can be used decoratively, while the inner core of the concrete patio blocks provides all of the strength and durability you could require. Some “split face” concrete patio blocks look like rough stone, while others have lines and patterns carved or scored into the facing. Color can be added as well, providing homeowners with lots of great design choices that can be used to build a backyard retaining wall, built-in planter or to create taller walls over four feet in height.Retaining Wall Systems (Concrete Patio Blocks)
You can also purchase what are known in the industry as retaining wall systems, which are simply textured or decorative concrete patio blocks that are designed specifically for used to build a backyard retaining wall. Often designed with the DIY homeowner in mind, these systems are easy to place, come in a variety of styles including straight or linear and curved, for rounded designs. While these concrete patio blocks do have inner cells, which can be used to boost stability, they are unique from the “split face” style concrete patio blocks and other natural stone materials in that they are designed to come together in a specific way, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This type of material is also more affordable and easy to install, even for a novice landscaper or homeowner.
Where to Purchase Concrete Patio Blocks
When it comes to making all of these hardscaping tips in Pawtucket pay off when you get ready to build a backyard retaining wall, it is the materials that will make the difference. From concrete patio blocks in a number of styles to other natural stone materials and supplies, J&J Materials is the dealer that you can trust to provide you with the best quality materials right here in the South Coast region. Located in both Seekonk and Bourne, the delivery range for concrete patio blocks and other hardscaping materials extends into Rhode Island, covering both Pawtucket and Providence. Stop by one of our locations or give us a call to find out more about all of the materials available to help you build a backyard retaining wall or other hardscaping project.
