It may seem simple to build a wall, but it can be a complicated process. You have to take many things into consideration such as what type of wall you are looking for, materials, protection from dampness, and foundations. If these factors are not considered, it could result in an unstable wall and additional costs in the long run. It may be a good idea to get a
professional builder or contractor involved in building your boundary wall, to save you money in the long run.
It can often be cheaper and less of a hassle to tear down a wall and start from scratch rather than patching and plastering an unsound wall. With that in mind, here are some steps to take to build a new boundary wall:
1. Define the boundary
The rules governing this will largely be based on where you live, you may have to consult your local municipality to fully complete this step. Be careful not to cross onto a neighbouring property.
2. Choose a wall design
You’ll need to investigate the laws and regulations on wall building. Depending on where you live, there may be specifications on the type of wall you are required to build (e.g., if you live in a gate community). This can range from design, height, material, and colour. Additionally, the thickness of the wall and the spacing of the piers regulate the height that the wall can be.
3. Check the foundations you’re working with
Here, the environment will influence the design. Is the wall on a slope, what sort of soil are you building on, and will you need reinforcements? This is where the knowledge of a builder or engineer will shine through and make your wall long lasting.
4. Check the drainage
If the wall is on a slope, make sure there is adequate drainage and weep holes to manage storm water build-up.
5. Avoid damp problems
Boundary walls often have damp problems because they are rarely built with the plastic membranes and damp proofing that houses are built with. Additionally, if you plaster the wall, the plaster can work as a sponge, sucking up the water from the soil. Two solutions would be to not plaster the boundary wall, or to use less porous bricks on the first couple of layers of wall.
6. Choose your height
The height that you want your wall to be will influence the thickness and structures needed. Have a clear idea of wall height while in the designing phases of the wall.
7. Choose your materials
There are a variety of materials to consider when building a wall. If you’re building a solid wall, you could consider constructing it from brick, cement blocks or plastered clay bricks. Other options are palisade, picket fences, and vibracrete.
8. Pick your finishes
If you’re choosing to plaster your wall, make sure you use a high-quality elastic exterior paint. Otherwise, picket fences are best to show boundaries, but they may not be helpful when it comes to your security needs. Vibracrete has a reputation for being ugly but there are many beautifying techniques that you could find online. Palisade is durable in South African summers; you do not have to worry about water drainage, but you may need assistance in installing it. Solid walls can be beautified, are good at maintaining privacy but may have issues like dampness, construction problems and need somewhat regular maintenance.
9. Get building, or hire a professional
Depending on the material and location of your boundary wall, it may be possible to do the building yourself. But if you would like some advice or you think this task is too big, consider using a builder.
There’s a lot of decisions that need to be made before you get building, and there’s no shame in hiring a builder to help you. Alternatively, if you are feeling confident, why not invite your friends to help you build, and reward them with a braai?