Give Your Old Retaining Wall A Fresh New Vibe With This Easy Fix

Retaining walls serve a critical function in your yard. They are essential for preventing erosion, aiding in proper drainage, and slope control. You aren't always afforded much wiggle room when it comes to style with retaining walls. They're often installed out of necessity, with functionality at the forefront of the project. While some retaining walls can be attractive, others may be made with plain cement blocks — drab, plain, and at worst, an eyesore. In the mission to beautify your backyard without boring concrete, your retaining wall might feel like a giant road block to achieving your vision. Luckily, there is an this backyard feature. Simply paint it!

As straightforward as this upgrade sounds, there are still some important considerations to keep in mind before you proceed. Remember, your retaining wall is designed to withstand pressure and high levels of moisture. A lot of paint formulas won't be up to this task. If you decide to paint your retaining wall, it's crucial to prepare the surface and select a breathable paint. Otherwise, you may be faced with a peeling, bubbling mess. There are a few different options to choose from.

Mineral paint is a great option for unsealed concrete retaining walls because it's permeable. "The nice thing about it is that if water does push through, it actually can still escape," says Sara Bendrick, a professional landscape contractor and star of HGTV's "Lawn and Order" (via YouTube). "If you have latex or acrylic, [water] gets stuck there, it builds up, and it pushes the material off." Concrete stain is also a suitable option if you prefer a natural finish. Above all, just be sure that whatever paint you select is designed to withstand the outdoor elements.

You may also need paint brushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer and possibly a ladder. Before getting started, take time to inspect the entire wall. Look for problems like cracks or uneven surfaces, and correct these issues before you start painting. Next, thoroughly power wash your retaining wall to remove dirt and moss. Allow your retaining wall to dry completely.

Once the wall is totally dry, set out your supplies so they're easily accessible. Take your time applying the paint and cover the entire surface. If you're going the concrete stain route, your process will be a bit different but still straightforward. Fill a spray bottle with the stain. Apply the stain on your retaining wall and use a large sponge to blend it out where needed. Continue until you're satisfied with the color.

If you want a bit more of a flair, consider using a stencil to add patterns on the wall or even free-handing some mural designs. Flowers, trees, birds, and leaves are perfect for a nature-inspired design that enhances your garden. A simple ombre design, stripes, or checkerboard can be eye-catching too. Whether you paint, stain, or art-ify your retaining wall, complete the project with other landscaping elements. You could situate trailing plants at the top of the wall so they spill over the side or install solar lights for more visual impact at night. Upgrading your retaining wall and the area around it is an easy way to cultivate a gorgeous backyard design like your favorite HGTV stars!