Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Why Install a Retaining Wall?

Retaining walls hold back soil on sloped properties. They prevent erosion, create level areas for lawns or patios, and protect structures from soil movement. If you have a hillside property, a retaining wall opens up usable space that would otherwise be unusable steep slope.

In Vallejo, many properties have natural slopes or grading that benefits from retaining walls. These walls let you create terraced gardens, level parking areas, or flat entertainment spaces. They also protect against soil erosion during heavy rains, which can undermine driveways, foundations, and other structures.

A well-built retaining wall combines function with aesthetics. It solves practical problems while adding visual interest to your landscape. We design and build walls that work with your property's natural contours and match your home's style.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

We install several types of retaining walls, each with specific advantages:

• Concrete block walls with interlocking units and pinning systems
• Poured concrete walls with proper reinforcement and drainage
• Segmental retaining walls with decorative facing
• Natural stone veneer walls combining strength and beauty
• Tiered wall systems for large elevation changes

The right choice depends on your wall height, soil conditions, drainage needs, and aesthetic preferences. Walls over 4 feet tall typically need engineering. We work with structural engineers when needed to ensure your wall is both safe and code-compliant.

How We Build Retaining Walls

Building a retaining wall that lasts requires proper engineering and construction. Here's our process:

We start with excavation and site preparation. This includes removing unstable soil and creating a level, compacted base. Drainage is critical, so we install gravel backfill and drainage pipes behind the wall. Poor drainage causes most retaining wall failures, so we never skip this step.

Next, we pour a concrete footing below the frost line. This gives the wall a solid foundation that won't shift. Then we build the wall itself, whether that's stacking blocks, pouring concrete, or laying stone. For tall walls, we include reinforcement and tie-backs for extra strength.

As we build, we install weep holes or drainage outlets to let water escape. Trapped water creates pressure that can push walls over. Finally, we backfill with free-draining gravel, compact the soil properly, and finish the top of the wall with caps or coping.

The result is a wall that holds soil securely, drains water effectively, and looks great. Just like our patio work, we build retaining walls to last decades.

Concrete Masonry Services

Beyond retaining walls, we also install concrete block walls, privacy walls, garden walls, and other masonry structures. These walls define spaces, create privacy, and add structure to your landscape. We can build walls to match existing architecture or create new design elements.

All our masonry work uses quality materials and proven techniques. Walls are plumb, level, and properly reinforced. We pay attention to mortar joints, cap installation, and finishing details that separate professional work from amateur jobs.