Why Retaining Walls Fail (and Why You Should Consider a New One)
Aug 9, 2024
Whether in Gibsonia or the hills of Fox Chapel, retaining walls are a staple of Pittsburgh landscaping. With the city’s hilly terrain, these structures do the heavy lifting- keeping soil in place, managing water flow, and turning sloped yards into functional spaces. But let's be honest: when a retaining wall starts leaning, cracking, or bulging, it becomes a big problem fast.
If you’ve got a failing retaining wall (or you’re worried yours might not hold up), you’re not alone. Pittsburgh’s challenging soil, heavy rains, and freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll. In this blog, we will cover why retaining walls fail, how to spot the warning signs, and why building a new, professionally designed wall might be your best move. Let’s create peace of mind!
Top 3 Reasons Retaining Walls Fail in Pittsburgh
1. Improper Drainage
Pittsburgh gets its fair share of rain, and that’s a big deal for retaining walls. Without proper drainage, water builds up behind the wall, creating hydrostatic pressure that can lead to bulging, cracking, or total collapse.
How we fix it
We design walls with Pittsburgh's weather in mind. That means that our walls have built-in drainage systems to allow any water to drain properly, protecting its integrity.
2. Weak Foundations
The steel city may be tough, but some of its soil? Not so much. Pittsburgh’s clay-heavy and rocky soils need special attention when building a retaining wall. Without a solid foundation, walls can settle unevenly or start to lean.
How we fix it:
We start by creating a solid base by excavating, compacting soil, and installing a solid gravel base to prevent settling and avoid future cracks and shifting.
3. The Wrong Plants
Your wall might not be failing because of the Pittsburgh weather- it could be your landscaping. Trees and shrubs with aggressive root systems can crack your wall over time, while shallow-rooted plants won’t help control erosion.
How we fix it:
We recommend non-invasive, low-maintenance plants that look great and won’t compromise your wall. Think native ground covers and hardy ornamental grasses that thrive in the Pittsburgh environment.
How to Spot a Failing Retaining Wall
If your retaining wall is showing signs of wear, don't wait. Here’s what to look for:
Bulging: The wall is blowing outward
Cracking: Vertical or horizontal cracks mean trouble
Leaning: A wall that tilts forward or backward isn’t stable.
In Pittsburgh, these issues can escalate quickly with our freeze-thaw cycles and unpredictable weather.
Why Build a New Retaining Wall?
Sometimes, patching up an old wall isn't worth it- especially if it’s been damaged by years of water pressure, poor construction, or root intrusion. A brand-new wall, built right the first time, will save you money and stress in the long run.
Here’s why Pittsburgh homeowners trust Thunderbird:
Custom Solutions: We design walls specifically for your property’s slope, soil, and drainage needs.
Top-Quality Materials: From natural stone to modern concrete blocks, we build walls that look great and last.
Local Expertise: We know Pittsburgh’s landscape, weather, and challenges better than anyone.
Why Wait? Let’s Build Something That Lasts and Create Peace of Mind
If you’re dealing with a failing retaining wall in Pittsburgh, it’s time to take action. At Thunderbird, we specialize in creating retaining walls that stand up to the elements, enhance your property, and add value to your home.