RETAINING WALL FAQ'S

Where are the modules made?
The beauty of the SmartSlope design is it’s ability to be manufactured anywhere. It is as simple as getting the molds and inserts to the precast plant and production can begin.

Are these walls structurally equivalent to other segmented retaining walls?
Absolutely. SmartSlope walls are engineered just like other segmented retaining walls.  With proper use of reinforcement grid, any segmented retaining wall can be structurally sound.  SmartSlope, however, is capable of 9' heights without geogrid because our system has 20 degree batter minimum and each module is 15" deep.  This extra capacity for gravity walls allows SmartSlope to reduce excavation requirements for walls from 5' to 9'.

Is this a green product?
Yes, although we acknowledge that the modules are made with concrete using Portland Cement which has a significant carbon footprint.  But our modules use 50% less concrete per square foot of wall area than most segmented retaining wall systems, so we have reduced the carbon footprint.  All the plastic components in our system are made from 100% recycled content - mostly reclaimed soda and water bottles.

Do the walls require ongoing maintenance?
Structurally, no.  But any planted system requires ongoing maintenance.  Depending on the project objectives, that maintenance can be minimal (i.e. if designed to use native, non-invasives where natural growth is allowed to occur) or it could be substantial (i.e. if a highly sculpted flower garden using annuals is replanted each year).

Can I put any plant in these modules?
Yes. For the most part, you can get the look you want out of the wall by selecting your plant pallet.  Obviously, there are some limitations of the plant pocket within the module.  But soil conditions, sunlight exposure, moisture, growing zone, etc. - the same factors influencing plant selection in other landscapes - shape the plant pallet that will succeed in each application.

Will I see concrete after installation?
Yes, but not for long. At the completion of installation, the plants will be small and not cover the modules.  Success, from our perspective, is full grow-out with a plant variety that will cover the modules entirely.  That is, success means not seeing concrete.

Can I install these walls myself?
Yes, if you are handy and enjoy doing home projects.  Check your local regulations to determine if your wall requires a permit and/or licensed engineering design.  But actual construction can be performed by a wall contractor or do-it-yourselfers.  Our installation manuals provide the step-by-step guidance you will need to install a beautiful wall.

Where do I find an installer with experience in these walls?
Give us a call and we can give you a list of installers in you area.

Do I need a permit to build a wall?
This will depend on the wall height and your local permitting agency. You will need to check the regulations in your area.

How tall can I build a vegetated wall?
There is no real limit to wall height, assuming good soil conditions and proper engineering with reinforcement.

Are SmartSlope modules available now?
We are selling modules in the Washington, DC – Baltimore – Philadelphia area initially.  Call us for availability.  If you are outside that area, please give us a call anyway and we can describe our expansion plans.

Do you have plans for future expansion?
Yes. We intend to expand to a number of metropolitan areas after establishing a market presence in the mid-Atlantic.  Call us.  We're happy to discuss SmartSlope progress in the mid-Atlantic and plans to meet demand elsewhere.

How do I choose the plants for my wall?
Plant selection is the balancing of two factors - what do you want to grow in the wall and what is able to grow in the wall.  Generally, the plant pallet is relatively broad.  We have a horticulturalist on staff who will help you pick plants with the highest likelihood for success.

Do the modules make it more difficult for the plants to grow?
The modules actually enhance the plants’ ability to grow.  The thermal mass of the concrete modules moderates temperature swings.  The wall structure creates a natural wind break.  The wall profile allows for good drainage.  We are finding that properly selected plants thrive in our walls.

Do the plants add strength to the wall?
Yes. The roots of the plants will grow back into the wall weaving a root structure that ties the modules together.  This can add enormous strength to the wall.  But when engineering walls, we provide for ample structural capacity without consideration of the plants.