From turning steep slopes into terraced backdrops, and creating focal points in the landscape, retaining walls are undeniably a luxury in a home. But a simple reminder, neglected retaining walls can cause more problems than solutions.
Here in Brisbane, retaining walls are a lifesaver for homeowners as it allows modern-style constructions since it even out or tier sections of land. It can be made from a variety of materials like concrete, rocks, or brick, giving them real versatility when it comes to property aesthetics. But neglected retaining walls can cause danger, whatever material it has.
Let’s admit it, when thinking about hiring a professional inspector, the inspection of a house or apartment is usually what comes to mind first, right? But, did you know that one of the services they can provide as part of a building and pest inspection is retaining wall inspections?
Neglecting retaining walls can lead to several problems, both for the property owner and for the surrounding area.
Risk Safety
While retaining walls are indeed a wise addition to your home, neglected retaining walls can cause a number of problems that can be a risk to safety, and it’s important to have them inspected regularly and to maintain them in good condition to prevent accidents and injuries.
Just imagine the hassle of worrying every time your family spends time outdoors because neglected retaining walls can develop cracks, leaning, or other structural problems that can weaken the walls and make them more likely to collapse.
Aside from structural problems, neglected retaining walls can also weaken the walls by allowing water to seep in that could also result in possible injuries when collapsed.
Also, retaining walls that are not maintained can become overgrown with vegetation, which can put pressure on the walls and make them more likely to collapse.
All these factors can make the walls more prone to collapse, which can be dangerous and lead to accidents or injuries. Additionally, if the walls collapse and cause damage to the surrounding area or to neighbouring properties, the property owner may be held liable for any damages. This can lead to costly legal battles and settlements.
Financial Impact
A retaining wall that has been neglected for a long time can be difficult to maintain. If the retaining walls are not properly maintained and allowed to deteriorate over time, they may require extensive repairs or even replacement, which can be very expensive. It can also increase the risk of property damage, which can lead to higher insurance premiums.
Expenses could also increase if a retaining wall collapses and causes damage to neighbouring properties. The property owner may be held liable for any damages. This can lead to costly legal battles and settlements.
Affect Property Value
Neglected retaining walls can have a negative impact on your property value by making it less desirable, less safe, less environmentally friendly and more difficult to maintain, which can discourage potential buyers and make it more difficult to sell your property or result in a lower selling price.
Harm Environment
Aside from risking your family’s safety and property’s value, neglected retaining walls can negatively affect the environment in several ways:
- Soil erosion: Neglected retaining walls can allow soil to erode, which can cause damage to the surrounding area, disrupt ecosystems and harm wildlife.
- Water pollution: Retaining walls that are not properly maintained can allow water to seep in and contaminate the soil, which can negatively impact the health of plants and animals in the area.
- Vegetation growth: Retaining walls that are not maintained can become overgrown with vegetation, which can lead to the displacement of native plants and animals and disrupt the natural balance of an ecosystem.
- Runoff: Retaining walls that are not properly maintained can cause water to run off into nearby bodies of water, which can lead to the erosion of riverbanks and the degradation of aquatic habitats.
- Carbon footprint: Retaining walls that are not properly maintained can require frequent repairs or replacement, which can lead to increased use of resources and energy and contribute to carbon emissions.
Why Retaining Wall Cleaning Service Is A Must?
It’s easy to forget about retaining walls, but they’re integral to your home’s foundation and land stability. Don’t be like most people who wait too long to deal with problems; keep your wall in shape by having it cleaned and inspected regularly.
The easiest method to stay on top of the condition and utility of your retaining walls is with a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule. A deep pressure clean from House Washing Experts will remove mould, dirt, bird droppings, and other elements that could deteriorate your retaining walls quickly. Thorough cleaning of your retaining walls is not a waste of time; it will help protect your land, property, and family’s peace of mind.
Contact House Washing Experts Now
Cleaning and maintaining retaining walls can be dangerous and require specialised equipment and skills. Professional cleaning services have the experience and equipment to safely clean and maintain your retaining walls, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Professional cleaning services, like House Washing Experts, have the knowledge and experience to properly identify and clean various types of stains, growths, and other issues that can affect retaining walls. They can also identify and repair any structural problems in the walls.
All you need to do is find a reliable, efficient, professional cleaner that can transform the look of your house. Call House Washing Experts at 1300 927 433.