Retaining Walls
A retaining wall fights gravity and water every day. We build segmental block, mortared stone and reinforced masonry walls with footings, geogrid and drainage designed for the height and the soil.
- TypesSegmental block, mortared stone and reinforced masonry
- SupportFootings, base and geogrid for taller walls
- DrainageGravel backfill and perforated pipe
- FinishCaps, steps and plantings
What is included
- 1Drainage firstMost retaining wall failures are water failures, so every wall gets gravel backfill and a drain.
- 2A base that holdsA compacted base and a buried first course keep the wall from sliding or tipping.
- 3Reinforcement for heightTaller walls get geogrid or engineering to match the load.
- 4Details that finishCaps, steps, lights and plantings turn a wall into a feature.
From your first call to the final cleanup
We lay, repair and restore brick, stone and block in cities across the country. Find yours below and set up a walk-through.
- 1We walk the siteWe look at the wall, yard or roofline together, talk through the look you want and note what is already there.
- 2We set the layoutLines, levels and measurements are marked first, so every course starts straight and the finished work sits true.
- 3We build course by courseUnits are set on a full bed of mortar, checked with level and line, and the joints are struck as we go.
- 4We finish and clean upJoints are tooled, surfaces are cleaned and the site is left tidy, with a walk-through at the end.
Is this the right choice for your project?
- Slopes that erode or slide
- Terraces for yards and gardens
- Walls that lean, bulge or crack
- Driveways cut into a hillside
What makes structural masonry hold
- The footingEvery wall sits on a footing sized for its weight and the soil beneath.
- The steelReinforcement and grout give block and tall walls their strength.
- The drainageWater pressure is the usual enemy of retaining and foundation walls, so drainage is part of every plan.
Common questions
How tall can a retaining wall be?
Taller walls need engineering and often a permit. We explain the limits and plan the wall for your site.
Why do retaining walls fail?
Usually water pressure behind the wall, a shallow base or poor backfill. We build against all three.
Can a leaning wall be saved?
Sometimes it can be rebuilt using the same stone or block. We look at it and tell you what is possible.
Services that pair with this one
Stone WallsFreestanding and landscape walls of stacked or mortared stone, built to last and to look like they belong.See the service Stone
Fieldstone and Boulder WallsRounded fieldstone and big boulders set into walls and edges that look as if the landscape grew them.See the service Outdoor
Garden Walls and PlantersLow brick and stone walls, raised beds and planters that give a garden structure.See the service Find your city
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Ready to build something that lasts?
Call or text Brick Illusions, or send the form, and we will set up a walk-through. Tell us about your wall, chimney or yard and what you would like it to become.