Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

We build strong, functional retaining walls and masonry structures that control erosion, create level spaces, and add visual appeal to your property.

Concrete masonry and smoothing work

Hold Back the Ground, Protect Your Property

Retaining walls do more than just look good. They hold back soil, prevent erosion, and create usable space on sloped properties. If you have a hillside, uneven yard, or drainage problem, a well-built retaining wall can solve it. Without proper support, slopes can wash out during heavy rain, causing damage to your home, driveway, or landscape.

We build retaining walls and masonry structures throughout Quincy and Adams County. Whether you need a small garden wall or a large terraced system, we design and install walls that are strong, stable, and built to last. We also handle concrete block work, brick masonry, and stone veneer for projects that require a specific look or structural requirement.

A retaining wall is an investment in your property. It protects your foundation, prevents soil erosion, and creates level areas for patios, gardens, or outdoor living spaces. If you are dealing with slope or drainage issues, we can help you find the right solution.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

Not all retaining walls are the same. The type of wall you need depends on the height, slope, soil type, and intended use. Here are the most common types we install.

Poured Concrete Retaining Walls

Poured concrete walls are the strongest and most durable option. We build forms, add reinforcement, and pour concrete to create a solid, monolithic structure. These walls work well for larger heights and heavy loads. They can also be finished with stamped patterns, stucco, or stone veneer to match your home or landscape.

Concrete Block Walls

Concrete block walls are built with interlocking masonry units that stack together. They are versatile, cost-effective, and can be reinforced with rebar and filled with concrete for extra strength. Block walls work well for medium-height applications and can be finished with stucco, paint, or stone facing.

Segmental Retaining Walls

Segmental walls use modular blocks that fit together without mortar. These systems are designed for retaining walls and come in a variety of colors and textures. They are easier to install than poured walls and offer a clean, finished look. Segmental walls are a popular choice for residential landscaping projects.

Brick and Stone Masonry

For a more traditional or decorative look, we build brick and stone masonry walls. These walls require skilled craftsmanship and take more time to construct, but they add timeless beauty to your property. Brick and stone walls work well for shorter heights and garden features.

We can also combine different materials to create a custom look. For example, we might build a poured concrete wall and face it with natural stone or brick veneer. If you need help deciding which type of wall is best for your property, we can assess your site and recommend the right solution.

What Makes a Retaining Wall Last

A retaining wall is only as good as its foundation and drainage. If these elements are not done right, the wall will fail. Here is what we do to ensure your wall stands strong for decades.

  • Proper Foundation: We excavate below the frost line and pour a solid concrete footing. This prevents the wall from shifting or settling as the ground freezes and thaws.
  • Drainage System: Water buildup behind a retaining wall creates pressure that can cause the wall to lean or collapse. We install drainage pipes, gravel backfill, and weep holes to manage water and prevent damage.
  • Reinforcement: For taller walls or heavy loads, we add steel rebar or geogrid reinforcement. This ties the wall to the soil behind it and increases stability.
  • Proper Slope and Batter: Many retaining walls need to lean slightly back into the slope. This helps resist pressure and keeps the wall stable over time.
  • Code Compliance: Depending on the height and location, your retaining wall may require a permit and engineering approval. We handle the paperwork and work with local building departments to ensure everything is done by the book.

We have built retaining walls on all types of soil and slopes. We know what works in Quincy and the surrounding area. If you are also considering patio work or driveway installation, we can coordinate everything to create a cohesive outdoor space.

A well-built retaining wall is an investment that pays off. It protects your property, increases usable space, and adds value to your home. We make sure your wall is built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions

In most areas, retaining walls under 4 feet tall do not require engineering or a permit. However, regulations vary by location, and some municipalities have stricter requirements. Walls taller than 4 feet almost always need an engineer to design the wall and verify that it can handle the load. We can help you determine what is required for your project and coordinate with engineers if needed.

The timeline depends on the size and type of wall. A small residential wall might take a few days to a week. Larger or more complex walls can take several weeks, especially if excavation, drainage, and reinforcement are involved. We give you a clear timeline during the estimate process so you know what to expect.

It depends on the condition of the wall and the cause of the problem. If the wall is leaning due to poor drainage or foundation issues, it may need to be rebuilt. If the damage is minor, we might be able to stabilize it with reinforcement or anchors. We will inspect your wall, identify the problem, and recommend the best solution. Sometimes repair is possible. Other times, replacement is the safer and more cost-effective option.