“That doesn’t look right.” These can be some of the most expensive words you’ll ever say as a homeowner. While you can typically recognize issues inside your home, it can be difficult to see issues when it comes to the biggest room of your home. At GD Services, we complete just as many retaining wall replacements and repairs as brand-new builds. Our pros are able to tell what your retaining wall needs, but do you know when to call us? Just use this helpful guide to find out!
Or skip ahead to the information you’re looking for regarding retaining wall replacement and repair in Overland Park:
- When Your Retaining Wall Needs Repairing
- When Your Retaining Wall Needs Replaced
- What to Expect From Our Team
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Our Services
- Who to Call For It
When Your Retaining Wall Needs Repairing
If at all possible, we recommend repairs before replacements. This not only saves you money in the long run, but it also saves our crew time that we can spend on other projects for your yard. That low bid may be tempting, but subpar builders can result in costly repairs over time. GD Services may not be the first to work on your retaining wall, but we’re sure to be the last. These are the two most common issues that we see on retaining walls needing repairs:
Stonework Issues
Uncut stones and problematic pavers are some of the most common issues that lead to retaining wall replacement and repair. Our crew uses a highly specialized stone cutter to uniformly cut natural stone and create corner cuts to account for the intense pressure that your retaining wall will have to endure. If these cuts are not made properly, your retaining wall can develop cracks and start to buckle. Look for developing cracks in the face and edges of your retaining wall to identify this issue.
Puddles and Troubles
One of the lesser-known functions of retaining walls is aiding with natural water drainage throughout your property. Your retaining wall is not built to be a water feature, so if you see water seeping through your stones, you’ll want to contact our team right away. Early signs of poor drainage include discoloration or “rusting” of your stonework and soft spots around your retaining wall.
To tackle this repair, our crew will replace failed drainage pipes and build an effective drainage plan to mitigate any further damage to your property. We’ll also replace any discolored stonework and evaluate your wall to ensure everything works as it should.
When Your Retaining Wall Needs Replaced
It can be hard to figure out where to start when it comes to retaining wall replacement and repair. But there are a few easy ways to identify what needs replacing. As you take a look at your retaining wall, these are the most common reasons we determine a wall needs to be replaced:
Uneven Surfaces
Your retaining wall should create different elevations in your yard, but if you start to notice uneven levels and divots, you could be looking at a full replacement. The same goes for the faces of the stones that make up your retaining wall. Take a look from the side of your retaining wall. Each stone should work together to create an even profile. If one or two start to become out of place, it can spell doom for your retaining wall. Instead of just pushing those stones back into place, our crew will replace the affected section and install an improved support system.
Structural Failures
If left unchecked for too long, cracks, puddles, and divots can lead to a complete collapse of your retaining wall. Take it from the pros—a professional repair or replacement of a section of your retaining wall is a lot less headache than waiting until a complete failure happens. Since every wall is unique, the exact causes are always different, but our solution is simple. Our expert retaining wall builders begin your replacement by removing the affected debris and starting back from square one. To learn how we build retaining walls to last, read our feature blog.
Further Reading: Form Function Affordability
What to Expect From Our Team
Retaining wall problems aren’t always as simple as replacing a few stones. GD Services takes the time to understand what’s happening before recommending a solution.
Step 1: We Evaluate the Entire Area
We start assessing the wall, surrounding grade, drainage, and other property conditions. This helps our team understand what may be causing the visible damage.
Step 2: We Discuss Your Options
From there, we’ll discuss whether repairing or replacing the wall makes the most sense. If replacement is the better option, we can explore updated materials and ways to improve the space.
Step 3: We Handle the Work Correctly
Our experienced crews use specialized equipment and proven construction methods throughout the project. For particularly large or tall retaining walls, we may also involve an engineer.
Looking Beyond the Immediate Problem
We aren’t interested in covering up a problem only for it to return. Our goal is to leave you with a retaining wall that looks incredible and works with your property for years to come.
Our Services
Beyond retaining wall replacement and repair in Overland Park, our team can also assist in the following services:
- Patio renovation
- Landscape lighting
- Retaining wall design and installation
- Patio maintenance
- Outdoor home renovations
- Commercial hardscaping
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions regarding retaining wall replacement and repair in Overland Park? Check out our FAQ section for more information.
Why does my retaining wall keep having drainage problems?
Waterlogged soil behind a retaining wall can put additional pressure on the structure. That can contribute to shifting, deterioration, and other problems. Our team evaluates the wall and surrounding property to understand how water is moving through the area. When needed, drainage pipes and basins can be incorporated into the project.
Can I change the look of my retaining wall during replacement?
Yes. A replacement gives you an opportunity to reconsider the wall’s material, finish, and overall appearance. GD Services works with several retaining wall materials and systems. We will help you explore options that complement your home, landscaping, and surrounding hardscaping.
Can a replacement retaining wall create more usable space?
Depending on your property, it can. Retaining walls help transform sloped areas into more level spaces for landscaping, patios, or other outdoor projects. GD Services considers the surrounding property when planning a replacement. This allows the new wall to solve the existing problem while supporting how you want to use your yard.
Who to Call For It All
From a brand-new build to repairs and replacements, there’s only one call to make. Contact the pros at GD Services to talk about your retaining wall replacement and repair. Or start your project right by scheduling an in-person consultation. We’re happy to provide the service and solutions to make your outdoors great!
