Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Why Retaining Walls Matter

If you have a sloped yard, you know how challenging it is to create usable outdoor space. Soil erosion washes away topsoil, creates muddy runoff, and limits where you can plant, build, or enjoy your property. A retaining wall solves these problems by holding back the soil and creating level terraces.

But retaining walls are more than just stacked blocks. The wall has to resist lateral pressure from the soil behind it, drain water properly to prevent buildup, and remain stable through weather changes and ground movement. Our experienced team designs and builds walls with proper footings, reinforcement, drainage systems, and backfill materials. We follow engineering specifications for walls over a certain height and work with local inspectors to ensure your wall meets all code requirements.

Types of Retaining Walls and Masonry

We build several types of retaining walls and masonry structures, each suited to different applications:

• •Segmental Block Walls: Interlocking concrete blocks in various colors and textures, ideal for residential projects
• •Poured Concrete Walls: Solid reinforced concrete for heavy-duty applications and tall walls
• •Natural Stone Walls: Stacked stone or mortared stone for a rustic, natural appearance
• •Brick Walls: Traditional brick masonry for garden walls, planters, and decorative features
• •Concrete Block Walls: Standard CMU blocks for utility walls and structural applications
• •Garden Walls and Planters: Low decorative walls that define spaces and contain plantings

We help you choose the right wall type based on your needs, budget, soil conditions, and aesthetic preferences. Each type has advantages, and we explain the differences so you can make an informed decision.

Our Wall Construction Process

Building a retaining wall requires planning, precision, and proper technique. Here is how we approach every project:

We start with a site evaluation to assess slope, soil type, drainage patterns, and any underground utilities. For walls over 4 feet tall or in critical locations, we work with engineers to design a wall that meets structural requirements. We obtain necessary permits and schedule inspections as required.

Construction begins with excavation and base preparation. We dig a level trench below grade, compact the soil, and install a gravel base for drainage and stability. For taller walls, we pour a concrete footing to support the structure. As we build the wall, we install drainage pipes and backfill with gravel to prevent water pressure buildup. We step back each course slightly (batter) to help the wall resist soil pressure, and we tie the wall into the slope with geogrids or tiebacks when needed.

After the wall is complete, we backfill with proper drainage material, compact the soil behind the wall, and finish the top with caps or coping. Our foundation experience ensures proper base preparation, and our patio work helps us integrate walls seamlessly with other outdoor concrete features.