Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
Build strong retaining walls and masonry structures that hold back soil and create usable space.
Why Retaining Walls Are Important
If your property has slopes or elevation changes, a retaining wall might be necessary to prevent soil erosion and create level areas. These walls hold back earth and manage water runoff. Without proper retaining structures, hillsides can erode, causing landscape damage and even threatening structures. A well-built wall solves these problems while adding usable space to your property.
We build retaining walls in Redwood City using concrete and masonry materials that last for decades. Our walls are engineered to handle the pressure from soil and water behind them. Proper drainage and construction techniques prevent the common problems that cause retaining walls to lean, crack, or fail over time.
Types of Retaining Walls We Build
Different situations call for different retaining wall solutions. A short decorative wall in a garden bed needs less engineering than a tall wall supporting a driveway or building pad. We design each wall based on the height, soil type, and what it needs to support. Local building codes also determine when engineering calculations and permits are required.
Retaining wall types we commonly install:
- Poured concrete retaining walls for maximum strength
- Concrete block walls with proper reinforcement and fill
- Decorative stone veneer walls for attractive appearance
- Segmental retaining wall systems for flexibility
- Terraced walls for steep slopes with multiple levels
- Garden walls and planters for landscape features
Building Walls That Last
The most important part of retaining wall construction is what you cannot see. We excavate and prepare a solid base, usually with compacted gravel. Drainage behind the wall is essential because water buildup creates pressure that can push the wall over. We install drainage pipes and gravel backfill to direct water away from the wall.
For taller walls, we use steel reinforcement and sometimes tie the wall back into the hillside with anchors. The wall must be strong enough to resist the lateral pressure from the soil it holds back. This engineering approach applies to all our concrete work, including foundations and footings for other structures. Getting the structural details right prevents expensive failures down the road.
Masonry Work and Decorative Options
Beyond functional retaining walls, we also build decorative masonry features. This includes brick or stone veneers, outdoor fireplaces, seat walls, and columns. These elements add character to your outdoor space while providing function. We match materials to your home style and work with you to create designs that fit your vision.
Masonry work requires different skills than pouring concrete, but both need attention to detail and proper technique. Whether you need a simple garden wall or a complex terraced retaining system with patio levels, we have the experience to build it right. Our masonry structures are built on solid concrete foundations to ensure they stay stable and level for years.