Should I remove the tiles in my outdoor dog area to prevent further damage to the soft ground and buckling wall, or could my logic be flawed?
Asked by Mandy Fleming 
3 months ago
Last Updated: August 18, 2024
So, I recently dismantled this outdoor dog area that came with the house, and it turns out the ground under the tiles is pretty soft. I have a feeling it might be from all the rain we’ve been getting. The wall it’s situated on is already showing signs of buckling, so I’m a bit concerned. Do you think it would be a good idea to remove the tiles to let it dry out faster? I’m worried about the wall eventually collapsing. I even included a pic for reference. Any thoughts on how to handle this situation?
I believe the wall wasn’t constructed correctly. Building retaining walls can be challenging due to the significant outward force they exert. Most methods require digging below the wall’s placement to establish a solid foundation and using rebar to prevent movement. It’s possible to excavate just the collapsing edge of the wall, add a good foundation, and consider using interlocking pavers for a more visually appealing space, even though they are typically recommended for walls up to 2-3 feet high.
The wall might need to be redone with proper drainage and tie backs. I feel like addressing the drainage issues is key before the ground can dry out.
Proper water management is crucial, provide an alternative drainage system to prevent water damage. Consider installing a solution like this 👍