Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Turning Slopes Into Usable Space

Retaining walls serve a critical purpose. They hold back soil on sloped properties, prevent erosion, and create level areas where you can build, garden, or relax. Without proper retaining walls, slopes can erode during heavy rain, undermining structures and landscaping. A well-built retaining wall solves these problems while adding visual appeal to your property.

Here in Upland, CA, many properties have slopes that limit usable space. We build retaining walls that are both functional and attractive, using materials and techniques proven to last in our local climate. Whether you need a small garden wall or a major hillside stabilization project, we have the equipment and expertise to get it done right. Let's discuss what makes a retaining wall work and how to choose the right type for your property.

Types of Retaining Walls

Different situations call for different retaining wall types. Here's what we typically build:

• Concrete block walls: Modular blocks stack together to create strong, attractive walls. Many styles available from modern to traditional.
• Poured concrete walls: Solid concrete walls with rebar reinforcement. The strongest option for tall walls or heavy loads.
• Concrete masonry walls: Traditional concrete blocks with mortar joints. Very strong and can be finished with stucco or veneer.
• Boulder walls: Large rocks stacked and secured with concrete. Natural appearance that blends with landscaping.
• Timber walls: Pressure-treated lumber, though we typically recommend concrete options for longer life and better performance.

Engineering and Building Codes

Retaining walls over a certain height require engineering and permits. In most areas, walls taller than 3-4 feet need a structural engineer's stamp and building permits. This isn't red tape; it's safety. A failing retaining wall can cause serious property damage or injury. Engineers calculate the soil pressure, design proper drainage, specify reinforcement, and ensure the wall can handle the loads it'll face.

We work with structural engineers regularly and can coordinate the engineering if your project requires it. Even for shorter walls that don't legally require engineering, we follow best practices developed by engineers. This includes proper footing depth and width, adequate reinforcement, and comprehensive drainage systems.

The Critical Importance of Drainage

Proper drainage makes or breaks a retaining wall. Water building up behind a wall creates tremendous pressure that can push the wall over or crack it. We install drainage systems on every retaining wall, including gravel backfill for water collection, perforated drain pipes at the base, and weep holes to let water escape. This seems like extra work and expense, but it's absolutely essential. Most retaining wall failures trace back to inadequate drainage.

Design Options and Aesthetics

Retaining walls don't have to look industrial. Modern concrete blocks come in many colors, textures, and styles. You can choose blocks that look like natural stone, smooth contemporary faces, or split-face texture. Some block systems allow you to build curves and terraces for a custom look. For poured concrete walls, you can apply stucco, stone veneer, or decorative finishes to match your home's style.

We'll help you choose materials and designs that work with your property's architecture and landscaping. The goal is a wall that looks like it belongs there, not an afterthought. Good design also considers things like where you'll need stairs or pathways, lighting placement, and how the wall integrates with existing landscaping or hardscaping like patios and walkways.

Installation Process

Retaining wall installation starts with excavation. We dig down to stable soil and excavate for the footing or base material. The first course must be perfectly level because everything builds off that foundation. For block walls, we use mechanical compactors to settle each course and crushed gravel behind the wall for drainage. For poured walls, we build forms, place rebar, and pour concrete in one continuous pour when possible.

Timeline varies with project size. Small garden walls might take 2-3 days. Major hillside walls can take a week or more. We handle everything including permits, engineering coordination, excavation, and cleanup. Visit our homepage to see examples of retaining wall projects we've completed across the Upland area.

Retaining Wall Questions