Retaining walls do more than create interesting highs and lows in your yard. They also help to control erosion, manage drainage, and better utilize your space. When considering building retaining walls on your property, think carefully about what kinds of materials you will use. There are several different types of retaining wall block on the market today, and these retaining wall blocks will give you many different looks.
Below we've listed four main types of retaining wall block and explained their benefits and limitations to help you decide which type of retaining wall block would work best for your landscaping.
1. Concrete Block. If you're looking for an affordable solution, concrete blocks may be the retaining wall block for you. Depending on the style of concrete block you choose, your walls could look sleek, complicated, or even natural to your existing landscaping.
2. Stone Veneer. Those seeking a natural look might opt for stone veneer for their retaining wall blocks. Stone veneers can give you a custom look that matches your existing patio, your home's architectural details, or other hardscape elements in your landscaping.
3. Brick. If you love a traditional, classic look, investigate the use of brick for your retaining walls. Brick retaining wall block comes in a variety of colors and finishes. You can get brick that looks old and worn with rounded edges, or it can look sharp and modern.
4. Dry Stone Boulder. A natural-looking landscape benefits from a dry stone boulder retaining wall. Dry stone boulder walls hearken back to colonial New England landscapes when stone walls were common between pieces of property.
With so many options, it can be difficult to choose the retaining wall block that appeals most to you. In this case, it's wise to consult with a professional landscape designer. A landscape designer will have insights into which options best suit your landscaping, not only in terms of looks and design, but also in terms of practicality and durability.