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Hardscaping

Retaining Wall Repair in Leawood | Should You Repair or Replace?

Our experts explain how to tell if it’s time for a retaining wall repair in Leawood or if you need a full replacement. Damage to a retaining wall can impact both safety and appearance. Learn from GD Services the signs that indicate whether your property needs a repair or full replacement.

Warning Signs

Retaining walls from GD Services are built to last, so we tell our clients to give us a heads up if anything looks off. However, not every builder is as reliable. Here are some warning signs that your retaining wall is under duress:

Shifting Stones

Whether they’re settling or shifting, if you spot stones or blocks out of place, it’s a warning sign that something’s wrong and repairs are needed. We can fix some separation, but when your wall starts to crumble, it’s time for a new one.

Cracked Stones

It’s normal for small cracks to develop gradually. However, if you see significant cracks or chipping, particularly in the first few years after installation, your wall probably needs reinforcement. Left alone, the problem can worsen, leading to inevitable replacement.

Excess Water

Generally speaking, water should be draining from your retaining wall. Stored water causes heaps of problems, so if you notice water flowing through the wall during wet weather, that’s a sign your drainage works properly. However, if you’re noticing water coming through the stones during dry weather, that may be cause for concern.

A leak from your house’s foundation or irrigation system might be the source of the problem. We can prevent significant damage if we catch the leak in time. Unfortunately, if your wall is holding water for long, it could need replacing.

Leaning

If your retaining wall is leaning forward rather than straight up and down, give us a phone call. We call this issue “negative batter,” and it can mean certain doom for the structural integrity.

Time to Replace

In our experience, homeowners don’t notice issues with their retaining walls until certain doom has already arrived, resulting in a full replacement. If you’re hoping to avoid replacement, watch for the warning signs we’ve highlighted and act before it’s too late.

Get Help from the Retaining Wall Experts

Unsure about what your retaining wall needs? Moving and want an expert to survey the property’s retaining walls? Looking to upgrade your outdoor space entirely? GD Services is here to help with everything from retaining wall repair in Leawood to full-scale outdoor renovations.

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