Considering doing it yourself?
For a safe and successful installation of retaining walls and pavers the "Do it yourself" person needs to consider the following before determining it is feasible to undertake a project him or herself:
We have many clients who have called us to repair work that has not been done properly. Save time and money! Call us first and get the job done right the first time.
We have many clients who have called us to repair work that has not been done properly. Save time and money! Call us first and get the job done right the first time.
Q: Do I have the expertise on these engineering elements needed for a safe and lasting installation?
Foundation depth and materials. Because of the freeze-thaw cycles a proper foundation is critical to keeping pavers and retaining walls from tipping or becoming unlevel.
Combating Lateral Earth Pressure to prevent toppling. Interlocking segmental retaining wall blocks are engineered to withstand forces to keep them from falling over, but only with proper backfill, the correct type of block, and adequate drainage and retention materials.
Slope and Curvature. Calculating the proper slope of a paver installation (patio, steps, walkway, egress, etc.) is important to drain water away from a home or building while remaining aesthetically pleasing. Retaining wall or paver applications that follow any type of curvature require precise calculations for strength, stability, and a professional finish.
Combating Lateral Earth Pressure to prevent toppling. Interlocking segmental retaining wall blocks are engineered to withstand forces to keep them from falling over, but only with proper backfill, the correct type of block, and adequate drainage and retention materials.
Slope and Curvature. Calculating the proper slope of a paver installation (patio, steps, walkway, egress, etc.) is important to drain water away from a home or building while remaining aesthetically pleasing. Retaining wall or paver applications that follow any type of curvature require precise calculations for strength, stability, and a professional finish.
Q. Do I have the time, energy, equipment and tools to complete the project?
Without proper tools and heavy equipment, be prepared to do even more hard work and sacrifice some of the quality of the project.
Many specialized tools are required for a proper installation. Such tools can be quite expensive to rent, let alone purchase. Rental costs can also add up quickly if tools and equipment are rented for very long.
Many specialized tools are required for a proper installation. Such tools can be quite expensive to rent, let alone purchase. Rental costs can also add up quickly if tools and equipment are rented for very long.
Q. Do I have access to professional grade materials that will make my project last?
Retail box stores do not carry the contractor grade materials that we use for our projects. We use contractor grade weed barriers, foundation materials, masonry products, and other engineering components that are beyond the quality and selection available in the retail market.