Boulder Wall - Mariaville, NY
Hillside Transformation with Boulder Retaining Walls
This project involved transforming an overgrown hillside in the front yard of a Mariaville home into a functional and visually appealing space. By addressing challenges with precision and skill, we installed durable boulder retaining walls and improved the overall landscape.
Excavation and Boulder Wall Installation
The homeowner faced difficulty navigating the driveway due to overgrown weeds and grass on the hillside. To resolve this, we carefully excavated and carved out the hillside to create space for two tiers of retaining walls. The work was performed under a low-hanging power line, requiring slow, precise operation to ensure safety.
Each tier of the wall featured two courses of sturdy boulders, supported by a fabric layer separating the earth, a compacted crusher run stone base, and the boulders themselves. The ground in this area was extremely hard, often hitting ledge rock during excavation.
As a result, the base depth varied between 4” and 6” to accommodate these conditions without compromising stability.
Effective Drainage Design
To manage the 4.5-foot grade change from the top to the bottom of the hillside, we implemented an effective drainage system. The backfill behind the walls consisted of #2 permeable stone, and the natural gaps between the boulders allow water to escape, preventing pressure build-up and ensuring long-term wall integrity.
After completing the retaining walls, we graded the surrounding disturbed areas with sand and applied grass seed and fertilizer to promote lawn reestablishment. The front yard was also regraded to correct ruts left by a previous contractor and to match the natural pitch of the yard. This ensured proper stormwater drainage and a seamless appearance.
This hillside transformation not only improved driveway visibility and safety but also enhanced the property’s overall curb appeal. The combination of precise excavation, sturdy boulder walls, and thoughtful drainage design will provide the homeowner with a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution.
