Why Rock Retaining Walls Are a Must-Have for Sloping Properties in Melbourne

As long as it doesn’t serve as any kind of hindrance to the property, many people don’t mind having bare slopes on their properties – and these can be successful as long as the cut of the land (Batter) is set at the correct angle of repose. When left unmanaged, though, these slopes can cause major drainage, not to mention structural and aesthetic issues in the long run – and where these issues become severe, you may find yourself spending a fortune on repairs.  While there are plenty of ways to secure slopes on your properties, one method that has stood the test of time and trends involves the installation of rock retaining walls. Beyond their immediate functionality, they add value, longevity, and a textural flavour to any landscape. In this guide, join the team at Ascend Earthworks as we delve deeper into why a rock retaining wall would make a solid investment for sloping Melbourne properties.

 

Understanding Slope Stabilisation

Slope stabilisation refers to the process of ensuring minimal movement of soil or rock mass along a slope, and is necessary to prevent significant property damage. More often than not, the risks of slope instability come from erosion, rainfall, or human activity–all of which Melbourne has plenty of. 

Depending on the specific conditions of the slope and objectives of the project, several techniques can be used individually or combined. These include vegetation cover, soil nailing, rock bolts, drainage systems, and retaining walls. 

 

What Is a Rock Retaining Wall and How Do They Work For Slope Stabilisation?

Rock retaining walls, as the name implies, are structures generally built out of laid stone. Their installation holds back soil, substrates, or any other materials from sloping, sliding, or eroding by redistributing the weight of the material being held back. Without these, natural occurrences such as erosion, earthquakes, or storms can cause slope instability and lead to great damage to the property. 

When Does a Slope Need a Retaining Wall?

In most cases, a property will require a retaining wall when the slope of the land exceeds a certain angle. Generally, in the industry, if the slope is steeper than 35 degrees, the property needs a retaining wall. 

It’s significant to note, however, that this is moreso a ballpark. The certainty of whether the land needs this supporting structure can vary depending on the type of soil, size of the slope, and the amount of rainfall in the area. Moreover, retaining walls can also be built for aesthetic reasons such as creating flat outdoor spaces or terraces for landscaping purposes. 

Advantages of Rock Retaining Walls

Durability

Given Melbourne’s variable climate – ranging from dry, humid months to wet seasons – a durable solution is essential for the sake of adaptability to varying elemental forces. Natural stones such as basalt, sandstone, or granite, offer just the kind of weather resistance and longevity that properties in the city need. These types of rocks are strong and sturdy. Additionally, they are naturally resistant to the effects of water absorption and temperature fluctuations. 

When constructed properly, a rock retaining wall can last for generations. Unlike other kinds of retaining walls, they don’t warp, rot, or crack; you can expect them to be preserved well over the duration of their lifespan. Additionally, the weight of the rocks anchors them securely, allowing structures to withstand the pressure of the earth behind it without shifting or crumbling.

Maximising Usable Space

In steep properties, valuable square metres of land often go unnoticed because of challenging access or maintenance. However, with rock retaining walls, these spaces can be transformed into level, functional terraces. 

Tiered rock walls, in particular, can turn steep hills into beautiful multi-use zones. For instance, lower level instalments could be used as lawns, while upper ones with the best views can be used as entertaining areas. 

Environmental Sustainability

Natural stone is one of the most environmentally sustainable materials out there. It’s abundant, requires minimal processing, and doesn’t release harmful toxins into the environment. 

Moreover, rock walls promote natural water drainage and filtration. The porous nature of rocks allows water to flow through freely, eliminating the need for a specialised drainage system. Through these functions, this kind of retaining wall maintains the ecological balance of the property while minimising environmental impact.

Aesthetic Value

For property owners worried about the facade of their outdoor spaces, natural stone presents a unique aesthetic value. With its rich texture and tones and whether it has dark, moody hues or lighter, sandy appearances, natural rocks provide a variety of options for property owners to choose from. 

The organic appearance of these walls blends well with the diverse landscapes of Melbourne. They can even act as a striking focal point or backdrop in your outdoor space, adding to the overall value of your property.

 

Key Takeaway

Sloping properties may provide plenty of benefits; however, when their slopes are left unmanaged, they can lead to costly future repairs. By investing in protective structures such as rock retaining walls, you protect the integrity of your property very early on. However, to ensure these retaining walls stand the test of time and nature, it’s also important to work with a reliable earthworks company. 

At Ascend Earthworks, we understand the unique demands of Melbourne’s terrain and offer tailored solutions for building rock retaining walls. We combine expert craftsmanship with modern technology and locally sourced materials to deliver retaining walls that are both functional and beautiful. 

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you transform your sloping property into a stunning, usable space.