Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
We build sturdy retaining walls and masonry structures that prevent erosion while adding beauty to your property.
Why Retaining Walls Are Essential
If your property has slopes, uneven terrain, or erosion problems, a retaining wall might be exactly what you need. These structures do more than just look good. They hold back soil, prevent erosion, create usable flat space, and protect your foundation and landscaping from water damage.
In Longview, our wet climate and hilly terrain mean many properties face drainage and soil stability challenges. Heavy rains wash away soil, create muddy messes, and can even threaten structures if erosion gets bad enough. A properly designed retaining wall stops these problems and turns problem areas into attractive, functional spaces.
We have built retaining walls for properties all over the area, from simple garden borders to multi-tiered walls that create flat yards on steep lots. Whether you need to protect your home, create a level area for a patio, or stop erosion near your driveway, we design and build walls that handle the job and enhance your landscape.
Types of Retaining Walls We Build
Different situations call for different wall types. We work with several materials and construction methods to give you the best solution for your property and budget.
Concrete Block Retaining Walls
These walls use interlocking concrete blocks designed specifically for retaining wall applications. They are strong, versatile, and come in various colors and textures. Block walls work great for most residential applications and can handle heights up to 8 feet or more when properly engineered. They also allow for drainage and are relatively cost-effective.
Poured Concrete Retaining Walls
For maximum strength and permanence, poured concrete walls cannot be beat. We excavate, build forms, add reinforcement, and pour solid concrete walls that can handle extreme loads and heights. These work well for basements, tall retaining structures, and situations where you need absolute durability. They can be finished smooth or textured and even stamped for decorative appeal.
Natural Stone and Veneer Walls
Want the classic look of natural stone? We can build walls with natural stone or apply stone veneer over concrete block cores. This gives you the aesthetic appeal of traditional stone masonry with modern structural strength. Stone walls blend beautifully with landscaping and add significant visual appeal to your property.
Brick and Decorative Masonry
Brick retaining walls offer timeless elegance and durability. We build brick walls for shorter applications where appearance is as important as function. These work great for garden walls, decorative borders, and areas where you want a classic, refined look. We also create decorative masonry features like pillars, planters, and outdoor fireplaces.
Proper Design Makes All the Difference
A retaining wall is only as good as its design and engineering. Walls that look fine when first built can fail within a few years if not designed properly. Here is what we consider when planning your retaining wall.
- •Soil analysis and site conditions: We evaluate your soil type, water table, and slope angle. Different soils exert different pressures on walls, and we need to account for that in the design.
- •Drainage planning: Water pressure behind a retaining wall is the biggest cause of failure. We design proper drainage systems including weep holes, drainage pipes, and gravel backfill to keep water from building up behind your wall.
- •Foundation requirements: Walls need solid footings to prevent settling and tipping. We excavate below the frost line and pour footings that distribute weight properly and resist movement.
- •Height and load calculations: Taller walls and walls holding back steep slopes need additional reinforcement. For walls over 4 feet, we often bring in engineering calculations to ensure safety and code compliance.
- •Local codes and permits: Many areas require permits for retaining walls, especially taller ones. We handle permit applications and make sure your wall meets all local building codes.
We have seen too many DIY and poorly built contractor walls fail because they skipped these critical design steps. When you work with us, you get walls engineered to last, not just walls that look good for a year or two. The small additional investment in proper design saves you thousands in repairs and rebuilds down the road.
Our Retaining Wall Installation Process
Building a retaining wall involves more than just stacking blocks or pouring concrete. Here is how we approach each project to ensure quality results that last.
Step 1: Site Assessment and Planning
We visit your property to measure the area, assess soil conditions, and understand your goals. Do you need more flat space? Erosion control? Visual enhancement? We discuss options, show you material samples, and create a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Step 2: Excavation and Foundation Work
We excavate the area where your wall will sit, going deep enough to get below the frost line and reach stable soil. For most walls, we pour a concrete footing that provides a level, solid base. Proper foundation work is what separates walls that last from walls that fail.
Step 3: Wall Construction
Whether we are building with blocks, pouring concrete, or laying stone, we follow proper construction techniques for your wall type. This includes proper setback angles, secure connections between courses, and reinforcement where needed. Quality construction means paying attention to details at every level.
Step 4: Drainage Installation
As we build, we install drainage systems behind the wall. This typically includes perforated drain pipes at the base, gravel backfill for drainage, and weep holes or drainage outlets. Managing water is absolutely critical for long-term wall performance.
Step 5: Backfilling and Finishing
Once the wall is complete, we carefully backfill behind it with appropriate materials, compacting in layers to prevent settling. We finish the top of the wall, clean up the site, and can coordinate with landscapers if you want plants or other features added. You get a clean, professional installation ready to protect and beautify your property for decades.
Most residential retaining wall projects take 3 to 7 days depending on size and complexity. Larger commercial projects or multi-tiered walls take longer. We give you a clear timeline upfront and keep you informed as work progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
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