Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Why You Need a Retaining Wall

Retaining walls do more than just look good. They solve real problems with sloped or uneven yards. If your property has a slope, you know how hard it is to use that space. Grass does not grow well on steep slopes. Erosion washes away soil every time it rains. Walking or mowing on a slope can be dangerous.

A retaining wall holds back soil and creates level terraces. This gives you flat, usable space for a patio, garden, or lawn. It stops erosion and protects your foundation from water runoff. It can also turn a problem area into an attractive landscape feature.

We build retaining walls throughout Hammond for residential and commercial properties. Whether you need a short decorative wall or a tall structural wall, we design and build walls that hold up and look great.

Types of Retaining Walls

We build several types of retaining walls depending on your needs and budget:

• Segmental block walls: Interlocking concrete blocks that stack together without mortar, good for most residential applications
• Poured concrete walls: Custom formed walls for maximum strength and design flexibility
• Concrete masonry walls: Traditional block walls with mortar joints, very strong and durable
• Decorative stone walls: Natural or manufactured stone facing on concrete structure
• Tiered walls: Multiple shorter walls that create terraced levels

The right choice depends on the height of the wall, soil conditions, drainage needs, and your aesthetic preferences. Walls under 4 feet are usually straightforward. Taller walls require engineering and might need permits. We will assess your property and recommend the best solution.

What Makes a Good Retaining Wall

A retaining wall that lasts needs three things: a solid base, proper drainage, and correct construction. The base is critical. We excavate below the frost line and install a compacted gravel base that provides a stable platform. Without this, the wall will shift and fail over time.

Drainage is just as important. Water builds up behind retaining walls and creates pressure. If that water cannot escape, it will eventually push the wall over. We install drainage systems behind every wall we build. This includes gravel backfill and perforated drain pipes that carry water away from the wall.

The construction method matters too. Blocks must be level and properly aligned. Each course needs to be set back slightly to create a stable batter. Caps and finishing details protect the wall from weather. We have built hundreds of retaining walls in Hammond, and we know exactly how to do it right.

Tall walls or walls on difficult sites might need reinforcement. This could include tiebacks that anchor the wall into the hillside, or geogrid layers that add strength to the backfill. We will engineer the wall properly so it holds up for the long term.

Retaining Wall Design Options

Retaining walls can be functional or decorative, or both. For a clean modern look, segmental block walls come in different colors and textures. Some blocks have a natural stone appearance. Others are smooth and contemporary. You can mix colors or add cap stones for contrast.

If you want a more traditional look, we can build with natural stone or brick. These walls take more labor but create a classic appearance that fits older homes. We can also incorporate steps, planters, or lighting into the wall design. The goal is creating a wall that solves your slope problem while enhancing your landscape.