Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
We build strong, attractive walls that solve drainage issues and create usable space.
Why Retaining Walls Are Essential
If your property has slopes, hills, or uneven terrain, you probably need retaining walls. These structures hold back soil, prevent erosion, and create level areas where you can build, plant, or entertain. Without proper retaining walls, sloped yards wash away during heavy rains, driveways settle and crack, and landscaping becomes nearly impossible.
We see this all the time in Andover and the surrounding communities. Properties built on hillsides need multiple tiers of retaining walls to make the land usable. Older homes often have failing walls that need replacement before they cause foundation damage or worse. The key is building walls that are both structurally sound and visually appealing.
Our team designs and builds retaining walls that last for decades. We use proper engineering principles, quality materials, and proven construction techniques. Every wall we build includes a drainage system to prevent water buildup behind the wall, which is the main cause of retaining wall failure. This attention to detail ensures your wall performs as intended year after year.
Types of Retaining Walls We Build
Different situations call for different types of retaining walls. We help you choose the right system based on your needs, budget, and the look you want to achieve.
Popular Wall Systems
- Segmental block walls with interlocking concrete blocks
- Poured concrete walls with formed and reinforced construction
- Concrete masonry unit walls using standard or decorative CMU blocks
- Boulder and stone walls set in concrete for a natural look
- Timber walls with concrete footings for rustic applications
Choosing the Right System
For walls under 4 feet tall, segmental block systems work great and offer lots of design options. These interlocking blocks are engineered to be strong and look good without needing mortar. For taller walls or situations with heavy soil pressure, we typically recommend poured concrete with steel reinforcement.
The choice also depends on your aesthetic preferences. If you want a modern, clean look, poured concrete might be best. For a traditional New England appearance, we might suggest stone or brick facing. We can show you photos of different systems we've installed and help you decide what works for your property in Andover.
The Construction Process
Building a retaining wall requires careful planning and execution. Here's what goes into every wall we construct.
Site Preparation and Foundation
We start by excavating the hillside to create a level base. The foundation is critical, typically we dig below the frost line and pour a concrete footing. This prevents frost heaving that would crack and shift your wall. For taller walls, we also install drainage pipes and filter fabric behind the wall to channel water away.
Wall Construction
Once the foundation is ready, we build the wall itself. For segmental block walls, we stack and pin the blocks according to the manufacturer's specifications. For poured walls, we set forms, install rebar reinforcement, and pour the concrete. Each method has specific requirements that we follow precisely.
After the wall is built, we backfill behind it with gravel to promote drainage, compact the fill to prevent settling, and make sure water flows away from the wall. We also add a cap or coping to the top of the wall for a finished look. The result is a wall that's both functional and attractive, just like our patio installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Solve Your Slope Problems?
Contact us for a site evaluation and free estimate. We'll assess your property and recommend the best retaining wall solution for your needs.
Call (978) 684-0096