Retaining walls are structures that are designed to prevent soil erosion and to stabilize soils. They are used in landscaping and architectural design. The water that runs off a hill picks up speed and strength, so retaining walls prevent erosion and stabilize soils. You can find different types of retaining walls in Auckland.
Construction of retaining walls
Retaining walls are a great way to create more space and enhance your property. There are many different types of retaining walls to choose from. They can add beauty to a garden or provide stability on tricky slopes. They are also an excellent way to protect roads from soil erosion.
The purpose of your retaining wall is also a big consideration. If it will be used to hold back soil, you should consider whether it needs building consent. Depending on its purpose, it may be a simple fix or a major undertaking. The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment provides guidelines for when a structure needs consent.
Building consent is required for retaining walls over 1.5 m in height. It is also a good idea to consult the local district plan before you start construction. This is particularly true if the wall is close to a driveway or building.
Types of retaining walls
There are a few types of retaining walls in Auckland that can improve the look and feel of your property. If you have an uneven section in your yard, you can create a retaining wall to fill in the gap. There are some guidelines that you should follow before building such a structure.
One type of retaining wall is a timber pole and rail structure. These are cost-effective and have a natural appearance. To build this type of wall, you first need to batter back the ground where the wall will be installed. Then, you need to drill holes and install the timber poles into the ground after the concrete sets. You should also put a drainage medium behind the wall to reduce the groundwater pressure and to provide effective drainage. You can also choose steel columns that are galvanised and epoxy coated. These columns are then inserted into the ground using round timber waler poles.
Another type of retaining wall is a concrete-faced structure. These structures are commonly seen on properties in Auckland. This structure can help to increase the usable area of your land and make it more level. This also prevents slippage.
Cost of retaining walls in Auckland
A retaining wall is a landscape feature common throughout New Zealand, but their cost can be prohibitive for many people. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to save money on this project. The most affordable option for low-rise properties is a timber pole wall, which is made from round, treated pine posts. Many homeowners construct this type of wall themselves to save on costs.
Timber is an attractive, versatile material that is inexpensive, easy to obtain and can last up to 40 years. This material is also relatively lightweight, which can make construction fast and easy. If you are unsure of your requirements, you can seek help from an experienced contractor.
Required consents for retaining walls in Auckland
If you are planning to build a retaining wall, you should get the relevant consents before starting the construction process. Depending on the height and type of wall, you may need building consent and resource consent from the Auckland Council. In addition, retaining walls should not be higher than 1.5 metres, and they must not interfere with public service drains.
There are certain factors that must be considered before starting construction of a retaining wall, including the purpose of the structure. It should be built so that it will take at least ten minutes to construct. If the wall is over 1.5 metres high, you will need building consent.
Environmental benefits of retaining walls
While some people consider retaining walls to be an eyesore, they are actually a very practical building feature that will add value to your property, and help to create a more beautiful landscape. Furthermore, they will prevent flooding and erosion, which can cause structural damage. These are just a few of the many benefits of retaining walls in Auckland.
In New Zealand, retaining walls must be built to meet the Building Regulations, which are outlined in the Building Act 2004. The Building Regulations also require retaining walls to meet structural and safety requirements. As a result, retaining walls are typically classed as ancillary buildings. However, there are certain differences between the different classification levels, and these differences may influence the design of your retaining wall.