Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
Control erosion, create usable space, and add structure to your landscape with professionally built retaining walls.
Why You Need a Retaining Wall
Sloped properties present challenges for landscaping and drainage. Soil erosion washes away topsoil and creates unstable areas. Retaining walls solve these problems by holding back soil and creating level terraces. They turn unusable slopes into functional outdoor spaces while preventing erosion damage.
Retaining walls do more than prevent erosion. They create level areas for patios, gardens, driveways, or lawn spaces on sloped lots. Multi-level terraces add visual interest and make steep yards more usable. Walls also help manage water flow by directing runoff where you want it instead of letting it wash down slopes unchecked.
Properly designed retaining walls handle the pressure of soil and water behind them without failing. This requires understanding soil conditions, drainage requirements, and structural principles. Walls taller than three or four feet typically need engineering to ensure they perform safely. We work with engineers when needed and follow all building codes.
The right retaining wall improves your property function and appearance. It can increase usable yard space, reduce maintenance on slopes, and add to your property value. Whether you need to prevent erosion, create a level area, or enhance your landscape design, a retaining wall provides a permanent solution that lasts for decades.
Types of Retaining Walls We Build
Concrete Block Walls
Concrete masonry units provide strength and versatility for retaining walls. Standard concrete blocks create functional walls that handle significant loads. These walls can be faced with stone or brick for improved appearance, or left natural for industrial or utility applications. The hollow cores can be filled with concrete and reinforced with steel rebar for extra strength.
Interlocking concrete blocks designed specifically for retaining walls offer easier installation and attractive finished appearance. These systems use pins or lips to connect blocks and often include setback features that improve stability. Many styles and colors are available to match your landscape design.
Poured Concrete Walls
Poured concrete retaining walls provide maximum strength for challenging situations. We build forms, install reinforcement, and pour concrete to create solid walls. These walls handle heavy loads and tall heights. The face can be finished smooth, textured, or faced with stone or brick. Poured walls work well where appearance matters and strength requirements are high.
Applications and Features
Retaining walls serve many purposes on residential and commercial properties:
- Creating level areas for patios or lawn spaces
- Preventing soil erosion on slopes
- Building terraced gardens or planting beds
- Supporting driveways or parking areas on slopes
- Defining property boundaries with elevation changes
- Managing water runoff and drainage
- Protecting foundations from soil pressure
We can incorporate steps, planters, or seating areas into retaining wall designs. Lighting can be added for safety and aesthetic effect. The design possibilities let you create functional structures that also enhance your property appearance.
Design and Construction Process
Site Assessment and Planning
Retaining wall projects start with evaluating your site. We examine the slope, soil type, drainage patterns, and how you want to use the space. These factors determine wall height, length, and construction method. We also check for underground utilities and property lines that affect wall placement.
Drainage design is critical for retaining wall success. Water pressure behind walls causes most failures. We design proper drainage systems using gravel backfill, drain pipes, and weep holes that relieve water pressure. Good drainage extends wall life and prevents expensive failures.
Construction
Wall construction begins with excavation and foundation preparation. The wall needs a stable base that does not settle or shift. For block walls, we create a level base of compacted gravel and concrete footing. Each course of blocks is laid level and properly aligned. For poured walls, we build forms, place reinforcement, and pour concrete in one continuous operation.
Behind the wall, we install drainage systems and backfill with proper materials. The backfill must be compacted correctly to provide support without creating excessive pressure. Like foundation work, attention to detail during construction determines long-term performance. We also handle related concrete work like walkways and flatwork that integrate with your retaining wall project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
Need a retaining wall for your property?
(984) 237-6779