Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Why You Need a Retaining Wall

If your property has slopes or elevation changes, you probably need retaining walls. They serve several important functions. They prevent soil erosion by holding back earth and preventing washouts during heavy rain. They create level areas for lawns, gardens, patios, or driveways on sloped properties. They protect structures by directing water away from foundations and preventing soil movement. And they add value by improving usability and appearance of your outdoor spaces.

In Opelika, we get heavy rains that can wash away unprotected slopes in a single storm. Alabama clay soil is particularly prone to erosion and movement when wet. A properly engineered and built retaining wall solves these problems and gives you peace of mind that your property is protected.

Types of Retaining Walls

We build several types of retaining walls, each suited to different situations and budgets:

At DoneWell Opelika Concrete, we help you choose the right wall type for your property. We consider the height and length of wall needed, soil conditions and drainage requirements, intended use of the space, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Sometimes a combination of wall types works best.

• Poured concrete walls: Solid, reinforced concrete walls that handle heavy loads and high walls.
• Concrete block walls: Interlocking concrete blocks that create strong, attractive walls quickly.
• Stone veneer walls: Concrete walls faced with natural stone for high-end appearance.
• Segmental retaining walls: Engineered block systems designed specifically for retaining applications.
• Gravity walls: Thick walls that rely on mass to resist soil pressure behind them.
• Cantilever walls: Engineered walls with reinforced concrete footings and vertical stems.

Engineering and Drainage

Retaining walls fail when they are not engineered properly or when drainage is inadequate. The soil behind a retaining wall is constantly pushing against it. Add water weight from saturated soil, and the pressure multiplies. Without proper design and drainage, even a well-built wall will eventually fail.

That is why we start every retaining wall project with engineering. For walls over 4 feet tall, engineering is required by code. But even shorter walls benefit from proper design. We calculate the loads, determine required footing size and depth, specify reinforcement, and plan drainage systems.

The Building Process

Building a retaining wall is a complex process that requires careful execution. We excavate for the footing below frost depth and into stable soil. We pour a reinforced concrete footing sized for the wall height and loads. We build the wall structure using concrete, block, or stone according to plans. We install drainage systems behind the wall, typically perforated pipe in gravel. We backfill with free-draining material, not clay soil that holds water. And we compact carefully to avoid disturbing the wall while providing stable support. We also coordinate with foundation work when needed for structures near retaining walls.

Drainage is critical. We use weep holes in the wall face to allow water to escape, perforated drain pipe behind the wall to collect and redirect water, and gravel backfill that allows water to drain quickly. Proper drainage keeps water pressure off the wall and prevents failure.

Local Experience Makes the Difference

We have built retaining walls throughout Opelika, Auburn, Phenix City, and surrounding communities. We understand local soil conditions and know what building departments require. We have relationships with engineers when projects need professional design. And we use proven construction techniques that result in walls that last.

Retaining walls are an investment in your property. They prevent expensive erosion damage, create usable space, and improve curb appeal. Whether you need a small garden wall or a major engineered structure, we bring the expertise to do it right. And if you are planning a patio or other hardscaping, we can coordinate the retaining wall work for a cohesive outdoor design.

Common Questions About Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry