Changing materials or the thickness of walls in home building can lead to a ledge where the materials are recessed and this is termed “offset”. There are many times when you might wish to consider an offset in your construction project.
Offset a Retaining Wall
If you are ready to build a retaining wall and wish to add some interesting eye appeal as well as function, consider having the top layer of material offset to form a small ledge for placing potted plants or other ornamentation. Another thought is to leave an offset large enough for bench type seating every few feet, in order to add visual interest, both when looking at the wall and from the perspective of sitting on the bench and having a view of your yard.
The most important thing to consider when planning an offset for your retaining wall is what you would enjoy most. After all, when form meets function the homeowner is the person who has to live with the result. Our lives are too hurried and stressed as it is; let us find room in them to enjoy what we have.
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