Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Why You Might Need a Retaining Wall

Retaining walls do more than look nice. They hold back soil on sloped properties to prevent erosion and create level areas you can actually use. If your yard slopes steeply, a retaining wall can give you flat space for a patio, lawn, or garden bed. If soil is washing down your hill every time it rains, a wall stops the erosion and protects your landscaping.

Here in Alexandria, VA, many properties have slopes and grade changes that benefit from retaining walls. Done right, they add function and value to your property. Done wrong, they can fail and create bigger problems than you started with. That is why you want experienced contractors who understand soil mechanics and drainage building your retaining wall.

Retaining Wall and Masonry Options

We build several types of retaining walls and masonry structures based on your needs:

• Poured concrete walls: Strong, permanent walls for any height up to what codes allow
• Concrete block walls: Versatile and cost-effective for most residential applications
• Decorative stone veneer: The strength of concrete with the appearance of natural stone
• Terraced walls: Multiple shorter walls that step down a steep slope
• Garden walls and planters: Low walls that define spaces and create planting areas
• Seat walls: Low walls around patios that provide extra seating

The Engineering Behind Stable Walls

A retaining wall is holding back tons of soil and water pressure. This requires proper engineering. We calculate the forces involved, design adequate footings, and build walls thick enough and strong enough for the job. Taller walls need permits and sometimes engineering stamps, which we handle as part of the project.

Drainage is critical. Water building up behind a wall creates enormous pressure that can cause failure. We install drainage systems including gravel backfill, perforated pipes, and weep holes so water escapes instead of pushing on the wall. The base matters too. We excavate below the frost line and build solid footings so the wall will not shift or settle over time. If your project also includes patio or outdoor living areas, we can integrate the wall design to create a cohesive outdoor space.

Making Your Wall Look Great

Retaining walls are visible, so appearance matters. Concrete block walls can be left natural, painted, or covered with stone veneer for a more upscale look. Poured concrete walls can have decorative finishes or be stained to match your home. We can also incorporate steps, lighting, and planting pockets to make the wall a feature instead of just a necessity. The goal is a wall that solves your slope problem and looks like it belongs on your property. For other decorative concrete options that complement your retaining wall, we have plenty of ideas to share.

Retaining Wall Questions