Terracing Method

2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38

Photo: Photo by: Tetyana Lustenko / Rusmediabank.ru

Terracing is a method of artificially changing slopes and ravines, building terraces. This method of landscape design is used in areas with difficult terrain, it helps to expand the space and decorate elevations that do not look aesthetically pleasing. The construction of artificial terraces helps to use ravines for cultivating land and growing cultivated and ornamental plants, or simply contributes to the improvement of a suburban area. Also, the tracing method helps to exclude water erosion of the earth. On terraced areas, you can organize parking spaces, areas for laying out flower beds and paving paths, arranging ponds, decorative steps and terraces, viewing and playgrounds.

The terracing technique consists of constructing retaining walls to keep the soil in place and not crumble. Retaining walls are constructed from a variety of materials such as concrete, wood, brick, stone, building blocks, metal, and others. All these materials are quite stable and when they are properly constructed, the movement of the ground stops.

Structural elements of retaining walls

• Foundation - the base of the retaining wall, its underground part, with the help of which the stability of the structure is achieved. In order for the foundation to withstand a certain pressure, it is laid at different depths. If the soil is loose and the walls are heavy, lay the foundation as deep as possible.

• The main part of the retaining wall or structure body prevents soil spillage and landslides. This part of the structure plays not only a practical role, but also a decorative element. Therefore, the material for it must be chosen in accordance with the style of the garden.

• An important element of the retaining structure is the drainage system, which ensures the drainage of water, which contributes to the destruction of the structure. The drainage system consists of a drainage tube, an opening and a drainage layer of gravel or other material.

Retaining structures can be low - up to 1 m in height, medium - from 1 to 2 m and high - more than 2 m. By the method of installation, massive walls are distinguished, which are made of high-strength materials such as concrete or brick, comparable in height and width and are stable due to the weight of the structure. Semi-massive walls have a wide foundation and are constructed of reinforced concrete. The strength of this structure is provided by the weight of the wall and the pressure of the soil on the base. Thin-element walls are built of reinforced concrete, retain their durability due to soil pressure on the base of the foundation. Thin retaining walls are constructed of metal, the durability of the structure is determined by a very deep foundation.

Decorating retaining walls and terraces

Decorating terraces is an exciting experience. If the retaining walls are made of inexpensive and not very presentable materials, then they can be decorated. A popular method for refining retaining walls is cladding with decorative stone or tiles. Also, various coatings such as plastering and painting will decorate the terraces. Varieties of plaster and paint will perfectly hide minor defects and imperfections, and it is also a great way to change the color and texture of the coating every year. Wooden retaining walls can be coated with decorative varnish, this will not only give shine and a certain shade to the wood, but also protect it from damage and pests. Do not forget about green spaces. Ornamental plants will perfectly complement and decorate terraces. If the walls are lined up in tiers or steps, then the plants can be planted on narrow terraces between them. Weaving bright flowers will become a living carpet and hide flaws. The combined method of terassing is a godsend for a small area. Using this method, plants of various types, varieties and colors are planted on different tiers: flowers, shrubs or low trees. On the steps, you can organize stone embankments and alpine slides, put benches, install small architectural forms, as well as plant hedges along the walls or plant a decorative vegetable garden consisting of cultivated plants and greenery.

Using the terracing method will help increase the usable area on the site, harmoniously organize the space, and this structure can also become an independent decorative element or part of a composition.