Expert Stone Wall Construction

Stone wall construction makes good use of naturally occurring materials that exist across the state of Maryland and the surrounding areas. When properly engineered, stone retaining walls can last literally for a lifetime. Install one and you may make a contribution to those that tend to the property far into the future -- perhaps even your own grandchildren or great-grandchildren. 
Originally, stone walls and retaining walls were a natural outgrowth of freeze-thaw cycles slowly heaving large rocks toward the surface of area farm fields. Such stones were habitually cleared from the fields after the spring plowing. Today, other rocks may be quarried. This adds the potential for more angular rocks that will interlock well. It also offers the potential for more monochromatic designs where rocks will be consistently brown, gray, black, etc. 

Smaller Walls 

Lesser size retaining walls can be constructed of a single layer of interlocking stones or rocks. Proper backfilling techniques are a key to durable, stable walls. 

Tilted Walls 
Walls higher than about three feet are typically tilted into the hill for added stability. 

Wider Base
Multiple layers of interlocking stones can further stabilize such retaining walls. Adding layers at the bottom of the wall further strengthens the base. Larger stones are often used in lower sections of the wall. They better resist freeze-thaw cycles and better handle the weight of the wall above. 
More than meets the eye -- higher walls still only show that outer course of rock. That outer layer of material may mask the fact that the base of taller walls may be as much as three or even four feet wide. 

Safety
Leaving the construction of retaining walls to the pros can be better than risking serious injury working with heavy stones without the right hydraulic and other equipment. Also, mishaps due to improper construction techniques have resulted in partial wall collapses that cause injury.
Design
Long straight walls and those that flow along the natural lines of the property are possibilities. Professional landscape designers can work with you to create the aesthetics that you want. 
If you live in Washington, DC or the Maryland suburbs, we can offer creative and contemporary landscape solutions. Contact us so that we might get acquainted with your plans and ideas.

Comment (0)

Many clients ask about the implementation phase of the landscape design. In the pictures below, you will note the planning phase, implementation phase, and completion phase.

After the landscape design has been approved by the clients, Johnson’s Landscaping Service, Inc. will send its implementation team, to include the landscape designer, and the production and operations managers.  They work closely with the designer, who works closely with the clients, to ensure proper implementation of the landscape design.  The photos below represent the initial meeting of these three components.

Of course, after the initial meeting, the foremen and crew begin their work.  Typically, the hardscape (patios, walls, etc.) are completed first; after that, the crews install the plants.  In the pictures below, most of the construction (save for the deck) is complete.

After the planting and night lighting are installed, the project is complete, and clients are ready to furnish and enjoy their new outdoor living space!

Comment (0)

At Johnson’s Landscaping, Inc., we pride ourselves in providing landscaping services to the area since 1960. One exciting service we offer is constructing water features and ponds.

With a custom water feature or pond, you have the opportunity to work with our landscape designers to build exactly what you want.

Thinking about a new pond? Call the experts at Johnson’s Landscaping Service, Inc. at 301-740-8850 to learn more. We serve about solutions for rain and erosion in Northwest, Washington, DC and Montgomery County, Maryland.

Comment (0)

Many clients of Johnson’s Landscaping ask us about good times to plant. Another great thing about the Fall is planting! Late September is a great time to start planting, to sod or to seed your yard.

 The plant gets in the ground, and there is no harsh weather to harm the root ball while it is establishing.  The little stress from weather extremes makes it perfect to plant sod, seeds, trees, shrubs, and plants.

 For questions about planting, call us at 301-740-8850.

Comment (0)

If you are looking to add a beautiful addition to your exterior landscaping, consider porous permeable pavers. With night lighting, these pavers make for a stunning accent to the entry of your home.

An added bonus to these kinds of materials is the filtering of storm water through areas that would normally be impervious to the soil below.

Call Johnson’s Landscaping at 301-740-8850 to learn more about these additions.

 Eco Cobble Permeable Pavers from EP Henry (stone product used by Johnson’s Landscaping Service, Inc.’s certified installers) 

Comment (0)

In addition to exterior lighting, adding a dashing outdoor fireplace will help you extend the beautiful fall season.  Keep warm outdoors and provide a center for entertaining guests in your own backyard. Social and family gatherings find a new, special place on your outdoor patio.

Outdoor Fireplace built by Johnson's Landscaping in Chevy Chase, MD

For more information about an outdoor fireplace for your home, call Johnson’s Landscaping at 301-740-8850.

Comment (0)