A retaining wall serves dual purposes: one for function and one for aesthetics. These walls are critical structures in landscaping, with the goal of managing soil erosion, providing level areas for planting, and adding a unique visual element to your backyard. If you have decided to construct a retaining wall for your patio or other area, the next step is to decide on material.
Is it better to use brick or stone for your new retaining wall? Both are quite popular in the construction of retaining walls, but it’s important to take some time and think about the one that’s best for your property. Today we will take a look at the pros and cons of each.
Brick Retaining Walls
From aesthetic appeal to low maintenance, there are many advantages of choosing brick for your retaining wall.
Pros
- Beauty: Offering a classic, timeless look, brick complements many architectural styles to result in a uniform, orderly appearance that gives you backyard an instant facelift.
- Durability: Known for its long lifespan, strength and ability to withstand weather, brick can last for decades when properly installed by a professional.
- Versatility: You can arrange bricks in a wide variety of patterns, adding a certain element of versatility to your landscape.
- Low Maintenance: With minimal maintenance, bricks don’t show dirt and only need an occasional wash with a hose to stay looking their best.
On the flip side, there are a few drawbacks of brick to consider.
Cons
- Cost: High-quality brick can come with a high price tag, not to mention the labor costs are generally higher than other materials.
- Lack of Natural Aesthetic: Yes bricks are available in many colors and styles, but they may lack the natural aesthetic of stone or other materials.
Stone Retaining Walls
Durability, variety, and eco-friendliness are just a few of the pros of stone retaining walls.
Pros
- Natural Beauty: With a natural, organic appearance, stone blends in well with all outdoor environments. Because each stone is unique, no two retaining walls are exactly the same.
- Variety: Stone is available in a wide range of colors, types, and textures so you can customize your own design.
- Durability: Stone, just like brick, is very durable and can withstand harsh weather and heavy loads.
- Eco-Friendly: A natural material, stone is an environmentally-friendly option.
Cons
- Cost and Labor: Natural stone is expensive, as is the labor involved, which is quite intensive and results in higher installation costs than other materials.
- Maintenance: While durable, stone needs more maintenance than brick does. That’s because moss and weeds can grow between each stone, requiring regular upkeep.
Which Material to Choose?
The material you choose will depend heavily on your specific needs, personal preference, budget, and style of your home and yard. Consider these factors when deciding:
- Aesthetics: Homeowners who prefer a neat, uniform look may like brick better, whereas homeowners who prefer a natural, rustic look should go with stone.
- Budget: Brick is more affordable upfront, but high-end stone enhances property value for longer.
- Design: Consider integration with the rest of your landscape features and home architecture. Ideally, you want to achieve a cohesive look that works in harmony with the whole property.
In the end, whether you choose brick or stone, you need to have your retaining wall built by a professional mason in Michigan for the best and longest-lasting results.
Schedule Your Free Estimate on Retaining Walls Today
From cultured stone to brick, we can create the perfect retaining wall for your backyard patio. Call us to schedule your free estimate and consultation today.
