Timber Retaining Wall Experts

Shaw Contracting Services provides earthmoving and timber retaining wall construction services for both residential and commercial clients. Whether you need a small garden bed, a larger structure to support a significant slope, or clearly define property boundaries, we build retaining walls tailored to the unique needs of each site. With our extensive experience and in-house equipment, we ensure that every wall is constructed to the highest standards, complying with the NZ Building Code.

Feel free to contact us to talk about your project details.

Timber Retaining Wall, North Shore Auckland

Many homes on the North Shore have steep lawns, which can be difficult to mow and make the space nearly unusable. Timber retaining walls are an excellent solution for these terrains, as they provide essential support by holding back soil. They create level areas and make the unusable space functional.

Shaw Contracting Services specialises in building sturdy retaining walls, providing both standalone timber pole installations and complete retaining wall construction services. Our construction process includes grading the designated area, excavating to the required depth, and securely embedding the timber poles in concrete. Once the concrete has cured, horizontal whalers are added, and appropriate drainage materials are placed behind the wall according to NZ building guidelines.

Benefits Of Timber Retaining Walls

Timber retaining walls are a practical, attractive, and cost-effective solution for managing the unique terrain and environmental conditions of North Shore, Auckland. As the region’s hilly terrain makes soil erosion a common issue, timber retaining walls hold back soil and prevent erosion, particularly on sloped properties. These retaining walls help level out uneven areas, making them suitable for gardens, patios, or additional yard space.

Timber offers a warm, organic look that integrates well with the natural beauty of North Shore Auckland, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of a property.
Compared to other materials like concrete or stone, timber is often more affordable for homeowners looking to manage their landscape without breaking the bank.
These walls are relatively quick and easy to install, reducing labor costs and project timelines.
Timber is a renewable resource, and using sustainably sourced wood for retaining walls can be an environmentally friendly option. This aligns with the eco-conscious mindset of many residents on the North Shore.

Timber Retaining Wall Solutions for Every Landscape

We build timber retaining walls to manage different terrain challenges for property owners on the North Shore. Whether it’s slip stabilisation, patio expansion, apartment retaining, or flood control, we offer practical and attractive solutions for every landscape.

Retaining Walls for Slip Stabilisation

Building timber retaining walls for slip stabilisation is crucial for properties in Auckland, where erosion and landslides can pose significant threats. For instance, if a stream erodes the slope beneath a house, it can lead to a landslide that destabilises the foundations and endangers the entire structure. In such cases, constructing a robust timber retaining wall can effectively address these challenges.

The process involves installing deep piles and retaining structures that anchor the wall into the ground and tie back into the house foundations to offer essential support. This method not only stabilises the slope but also secures the house, preventing further erosion and potential collapse. Additionally, diverting water sources, such as streams, away from the slope can help mitigate future erosion.

Patio Expansion

Do you want to expand a small patio into a larger, more inviting outdoor living space? We make strategic use of retaining walls to achieve this transformation. Initially, the existing retaining wall can be removed, and the soil behind it excavated and cut back to create a larger, level area. This process allows for the expansion of the patio, transforming previously unusable sloped land into a functional and spacious outdoor area.

By carefully managing the earthworks by earthmovers Auckland and preserving features like hedges for privacy, the new retaining wall can then be reinstalled to support the newly created space. This approach not only enhances the enjoyment and usability of the backyard but also significantly increases the property's value by providing a larger, more attractive outdoor living area.

Retaining to Mitigate Flood Risks

In Auckland, where heavy rainfall and flooding are common challenges, timber retaining walls play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks for apartment complexes. These walls are strategically built to elevate the property's level above the floodplain, ensuring that overland flow paths are diverted around the property rather than through it. By raising the ground level, timber retaining walls prevent floodwaters from encroaching on the buildings to protect the structural integrity.

Different Styles of Timber Retaining Walls

Timber retaining walls come in a variety of types and styles to meet specific needs and enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. By choosing the right style for your project, you can ensure that your retaining wall not only provides essential support but also enhances the beauty and usability of your space.

Timber Pole - This style is particularly effective for supporting significant loads and stabilising steep slopes. The natural look of timber poles blends seamlessly with garden landscapes, making it a popular choice for residential properties.
Timber Sleeper - This style uses horizontal timber sleepers stacked on top of each other and can be used for various applications, from small garden beds to larger structural walls.
Timber Panel - These walls are constructed using prefabricated timber panels to create a clean and modern look.
Timber Crib - These walls are made by interlocking timber beams in a crisscross pattern to form a series of open cells. These cells are then filled with soil or gravel, providing excellent drainage and stability. This type is highly effective for supporting heavy loads and managing water runoff in large-scale projects.
Decorative Timber Walls - These can be curved and tiered walls to add a unique touch to the landscape.