Building a retaining wall is a tedious job. You can get away with heavy rocks and stones stacked or you may prefer a more elegant brick/stone and mortar finish. If this is the case, build it right the first time to save yourself from having to rebuild the whole wall again, losing a lot of money. To build a masonry retaining wall properly, two key factors include a proper foundation and properly water resistant.
Brick Retaining Wall
Foundation
If I lack good education in my addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, I will not be able to function come time for algebra. In sum, my foundation for algebra was weak. The lack of foundation in anything is an issue. When it comes to your masonry retaining wall, this is no different story. As this wall is a functional AND aesthetic piece, it needs to be foundationally sound. This proper foundation is a proactive approach to keeping the mortar and bricks from shifting and cracking. It is recommended to have your base be a re-barred concrete foundation. To learn about why rebar and concrete work so well, check out our previous article.
Looking for a free estimate on your masonry needs in Chicago or surrounding suburbs, call Coast to Coast Masonry today at 847-438-9165!
Water Resistance
In Illinois, we face constant freeze and thaw water conditions throughout the year. This is an absolute killer to masonry, but only if not built right. So with a brick retaining wall, how can we make it as water resistant as possible, asides from a strong foundation? There are two steps – the first being proper top flashing, and the second being waterproofing. Prior to installing a top sill, there should be a proper flashing system being a barrier from any water absorbed at the top, and the remaining wall. When waterproofing, the entire outer façade of brick can be coated preventing water from being absorbed and eventually going through any freeze and thaw damage.
Local Chicago Masonry Experts
At CTC, we repair, restore, protect, and preserve masonry including brick, stone, or even a chimney crown. Whether it is a chimney rebuild, a broken glass block window, or a stainless steel chimney liner installation our expert masons are here to help. We use the latest masonry technology techniques to restore brick and protect your home.
We at CTC Masonry are the complete solution to your masonry needs and making your chimney last longer. We highly value our clients and seek to gain their confidence by offering the highest level of customized chimney tuckpointing services and masonry products at a competitive price.
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