Creating a terrace around a slope can be a great way to enhance your garden. It can also solve some of the problems associated with sloping yards, including runoff and soil erosion. However, it is important to know how to do it properly. You’ll need a plan, a few tools, and a bit of forethought to get the job done right.
One of the most common ways to create a terrace is with a retaining wall. Retaining walls can be made of wood, brick, or stone. The materials must be sturdy and well-anchored to keep them from falling over. A retaining wall can be useful on both level and steep slopes. These are particularly beneficial on slopes that are difficult to work on.
Before you begin building your terrace, you need to take some time to decide on the best layout. Think about how many steps you need to make, as well as the width and height of the terrace. In general, a paved terrace needs to be large enough to accommodate an entertaining space. This includes a place to have a BBQ or dining table.
Next, you’ll want to dig a trench to build the first tier of your terrace. The depth of your trench should be about 8 to 10 inches. For a larger terrace, you may need to dig a deeper trench.
Once the first tier is in place, you’ll need to backfill the trench. You’ll want to add gravel at the base of the retaining wall to help drainage. Also, make sure the wall has a 10-15 degree backward lean.
If you want to build a stairway to access the bottom of the slope, it’s important to choose the right materials. Wood is a good option for a stairway, but you can also use stone or railroad ties. Pressure-treated lumber is the least expensive.
When you’re constructing a retaining wall, you’ll need to make sure the material is rot-resistant. Use wood that has been pressure-treated, as rot can easily break a wooden structure.
Adding a water feature can also make your sloping yard look a lot better. Water features sound soothing and can make a sloping garden look beautiful. They can also be used to connect terraces.
Other features you can add to your sloped garden include trellises, flowerpots, and birdbaths. You can even hang a groundcover plant over the wall, to draw attention away from it.
Terraces are a cost-effective method of creating a great garden on a slope. If you have a steep slope, you’ll have to choose more modest materials. Small terraces are ideal for fire pit zones or meditative spaces. However, they can be tricky to plant. Using low-maintenance plants and grasses can be the best route.
If you have a large slope, you’ll want to prioritize the areas that will have the most impact on your property. Depending on the size of the hill, you may need to obtain a permit for building the retaining wall.