Does a Garden Wall Need a Concrete Foundation?
Can you build a garden wall without a concrete foundation? Do you need footings for your garden wall? The short answer is yes—a garden wall typically needs a foundation. But what about steel garden walls? Let’s explore how some steel garden wall systems can eliminate the need for a traditional concrete footing.
50–150mm: Garden Edging
Low steel edges, such as those in this height range, are generally simple to install and can be pinned directly into the ground. They don’t require a concrete footing, although concrete haunching can sometimes be added for extra strength. Haunching involves laying concrete alongside the edge for additional support.
200–600mm: Raised Beds or Garden Walls
Traditionally, walls of this height have always required a concrete foundation. However, with modern solutions like our Contour steel raised bed system, you can often skip this step. Instead of relying on a conventional foundation, Contour uses a post-fix method that offers numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced costs
- Faster installation
- Less dependency on weather conditions during installation
- Lower environmental impact
Of course, Contour can still be installed on a footing if necessary, but the post-fix option often proves more efficient and effective.
300–1200mm: Retaining Walls
When it comes to steel walls that must withstand significant soil pressure and function as retaining walls, we recommend our Anco system. This system is engineered for structural soundness and requires only a shallow concrete foundation of 150mm depth. The width of the foundation varies depending on the height of the wall. For more specific guidance, feel free to reach out to our team.
Conclusion
While traditional garden walls often require concrete foundations, steel systems like Contour and Anco offer innovative alternatives that reduce installation complexity, cost, and environmental impact. If you’re considering a steel garden wall or edging solution, contact us to learn more about your options.
