Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
Strong, durable retaining walls and masonry structures that solve grade problems and add function to your property.
Turn Slopes Into Usable Space
Sloped yards limit what you can do with your property. A retaining wall changes that. It holds back soil, creates level areas, and prevents erosion. You gain usable space for patios, gardens, or parking. Done right, a retaining wall also adds visual interest and improves drainage.
We build retaining walls and concrete masonry structures throughout Weymouth and surrounding towns. Whether you need a simple garden wall or a major grade retention system, we have the experience to design and build it properly. Our retaining wall contractors understand soil mechanics, drainage requirements, and building codes so your wall lasts for decades.
Types of Retaining Walls We Build
Different situations call for different wall types. Here are the most common options.
- Concrete block retaining walls with modular block systems
- Poured concrete retaining walls for heavy-duty applications
- Stone veneer walls combining concrete strength with natural stone appearance
- Segmental retaining walls for residential landscaping
- Tiered wall systems for steep slopes
- Concrete masonry planters and raised beds
- Commercial retaining walls for parking lots and building sites
The choice depends on wall height, soil conditions, appearance preferences, and budget. We evaluate your site and recommend the best solution. For walls over 4 feet tall, engineering may be required to meet building codes.
Why Proper Construction Matters
Retaining walls fail when they are built wrong. You have probably seen walls that lean, crack, or fall over. This happens when contractors skip important steps or do not understand the forces at work. A retaining wall is not just stacked blocks. It is an engineered structure fighting constant pressure from soil, water, and gravity.
Proper Base and Footing
Every retaining wall needs a solid base below the frost line. We excavate deep enough, create a level compacted base, and install proper footing material. Taller walls may require poured concrete footings. Skipping this step leads to settling and failure within a few years.
Drainage Systems
Water is the biggest threat to any retaining wall. Saturated soil weighs more and pushes harder. We install drainage systems behind every wall including perforated drain pipe, gravel backfill, and weep holes. This removes water before it builds up pressure. Walls without drainage fail much faster, especially in Massachusetts where we get freeze-thaw cycles.
Proper Backfill and Compaction
The material behind a retaining wall matters as much as the wall itself. We use proper drainage backfill, not clay soil. Each layer gets compacted as we build up the wall. This provides support and prevents voids that could cause settling. Proper backfill technique is what separates professional installations from amateur work.
Retaining Walls That Look Good Too
Functionality comes first, but appearance matters too. Modern retaining wall systems come in many colors and textures. Natural stone looks, smooth faces, and textured finishes all work with concrete block walls. You can match your home exterior or create contrast.
Curves, corners, and terraced designs add visual interest. Wall caps provide a finished top edge and additional seating surfaces. Integrated lighting can highlight the wall at night. We work with you to design a wall that solves your grade problem while enhancing your property appearance.
Planning to add a patio or driveway extension along with your retaining wall? We coordinate the design so everything works together visually and functionally. Matching materials and consistent design create a cohesive look.
Our Retaining Wall Installation Process
Retaining wall construction follows a specific sequence. We start by evaluating your site and determining the wall location and height. For walls over 4 feet, engineering drawings may be required. We handle permit applications if needed.
Excavation goes deep enough to get below the frost line. We create a level, compacted base using crushed stone. The first course gets set carefully because it determines everything above. As we build each course, we check level and alignment constantly. Drainage pipe and backfill go in as the wall goes up, not after.
The final steps include capping the wall, finishing any exposed cuts, and final grading. Clean up is thorough. You get a retaining wall that will hold your grade for 30 years or more without movement or failure.