Auburn Sky Landscaping, known for its expertise in transforming outdoor spaces, recently embarked on a project that showcased how small changes could bring about a significant impact.
This project, centered in Northern NJ, aimed at transforming a front yard by introducing small retaining walls. Here's a detailed walkthrough of the project from inception to completion.
Day One: Out With The Old
The project kicked off with the removal of Forsythia shrubs, which the clients were eager to get rid of. The plan was to replace these shrubs with a small raised retaining wall that would run along the front of the house, mirroring the height of the existing step. The wall was designed to step down gradually as it curved around the end of the yard.
Addressing Drainage Issues
The clients had recently had their sump pumps fixed, so part of the project involved rerouting the drainage to keep water away from the new wall. The team planned to extend the drain line, ensuring a change in elevation to facilitate water flow away from the wall, which was crucial for the longevity of the wall.
Preparing The Base
Before the actual construction of the wall, the ground needed to be prepared. Despite being a small wall, the importance of a solid base was not underestimated. The area was marked out, considering the septic system and other underground utilities. The drainage was planned to run through the wall, ensuring proper water exit. The emphasis was on creating a solid base with proper stone backing, geogrid, and soil separation fabric to ensure the wall's stability and longevity.
Construction and Backing
The construction utilized Keystone product, a Versa-Lock block, known for its ease of workability. Even though it was a small wall, it was treated with the same meticulous care as a larger wall to prevent any future failures. The backing process involved using plenty of crushed stone and geogrid to provide the necessary support to the wall.
The Final Look
The transformation was remarkable. The overgrown Forsythia that once walled off the front yard was now replaced with a neat, small retaining wall that added a touch of elegance to the property. The horseshoe-shaped driveway was now more visible, and the overall appearance of the front yard was enhanced. Additionally, the drainage was rerouted to prevent water loading behind the wall, a crucial step to prevent any future problems.
Additional Enhancements
As a follow-up, the clients requested a low-maintenance front yard. The team returned to replace mulch with a more manageable solution, aligning with the client's desire for easier lawn mowing. The front porch was also redone, and simple plantings were added to complete the look. The result was a satisfied client and a front yard that not only looked great but also required less upkeep.
This project by Auburn Sky Landscaping is a testament to how small walls can deliver big changes in landscaping. By addressing the clients' needs and ensuring proper construction practices, the front yard was transformed into a beautiful and functional space, reflecting the expertise and dedication of the Auburn Sky Landscaping team.