Does the exterior portion of your home contain a retention wall? If not, you could be missing out on new curb appeal elements and functionality. Retaining wall stones are utilized by landscapers to provide the right balance between looks and function. On the cosmetic front, the stones are available in different types that complement nicely with various home styles and architecture. Here’s a list of common stones that are commonplace for West Seattle properties.
Concrete Blocks
Concrete is a common selection for retention walls and is favored by homeowners and contractors alike. For starters, they’re easy to install, have a uniform appearance, and come in a number of colors and surface textures. Property owners especially favor this block type for its affordability and relatively quick installation time. One drawback, though, is that concrete may not have the desired aesthetics of natural stone, or have an appearance that some would describe as “industrial.” However, some concrete styles are designed to mimic rockeries found in nature.
Natural Stone
Various stone types fall under this category, such as limestone and flagstone. As this is a fully natural material, they blend well with a lot of outdoor elements like foliage and surrounding masonry. The stones’ irregular and jagged shapes provide a natural and earthy appearance. These are popular options among luxury landscaping projects.
Sandstone
A lot of homeowners gravitate towards sandstones due to their appealing natural colors. Tones range from brown to a soft red. Contractors favor this stone because it’s quite easy to cut and shape, making configuration and on-site installation easier. While sandstone ranks highly on visual appeal, this stone style may require periodic sealing to prevent erosion, particularly in high-humidity areas. Otherwise, it may be susceptible to weathering.
Gabion Wall
A gabion wall is usually made from natural stone but fortified with a wired cage for improved reinforcement and durability. This wall type is especially useful in areas with large drainage needs and a history of soil erosion. Contractors may recommend gabion walls if an initial land assessment determines the soil requires significant erosion control. The benefit of this wall is high functionality, though the presence of the wire cage may give off an undesirable look.
Granite
There’s a reason granite is highly sought after as a kitchen countertop material. The material is absolutely stunning, not to mention extremely durable and less susceptible to weathering. This is the choice if you want a retention wall that stands out from those of your neighbors. It’s an asset not only if you plan on living in your home long-term, but also if you plan on selling the property, as it can elevate its value. However, with the quality comes a higher price tag. Custom options may also be more limited since this material is more difficult to cut and shape.
Which Style Is Right for Me?
Upon an assessment of your property from one of our professional landscapers, we can make a recommendation based on a number of factors. This includes soil conditions, climate, surrounding decor, and the homeowner’s budget. We’ll also introduce questions for you to ponder to help you make an informed decision. For instance, do you prioritize appearances or low maintenance?
We Install Various Retaining Wall Stones for West Seattle Properties
Eagle Rock Landscaping has decades of experience installing retention walls for home and commercial properties in and around West Seattle. We work with trusted suppliers that carry retaining wall stones that can be customized to your lawn or property. Contact us to set up an appointment and make this smart investment today.
Retaining Wall Stones and Rockery
Serving Seattle, West Seattle, North Seattle, Ballard, Magnolia, and Issaquah
Posted on June 09, 2025 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business