Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry
Solve drainage problems and maximize usable space with professionally engineered retaining walls and concrete masonry.
When You Need a Retaining Wall
Retaining walls serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. They hold back soil on sloped properties, create level areas for patios or gardens, prevent erosion, and manage water drainage. At AVD Arlington Concrete, we design and build walls that solve problems while enhancing your property's appearance.
Arlington's hilly terrain means many properties need retaining walls to be fully usable. Slopes that are too steep for mowing, areas prone to erosion after heavy rain, or yards where you want to add a level patio all benefit from properly designed retaining walls. The right wall turns unusable hillside into functional outdoor living space.
Common Retaining Wall Applications
- Creating level yards on sloped lots
- Preventing soil erosion and washouts
- Supporting driveway grades and transitions
- Building terraced gardens and planting beds
- Protecting foundations from soil pressure
- Defining property boundaries and borders
- Managing stormwater runoff
Retaining Wall Options
Different situations call for different wall types. We'll recommend the best solution based on height requirements, soil conditions, and your aesthetic preferences.
Concrete Block Walls
Interlocking concrete blocks (like segmental retaining wall units) are the most common choice for residential walls up to 4 feet tall. These systems don't require mortar, rely on their weight and interlocking design for stability, and come in various colors and textures. They're relatively quick to install and cost-effective for most applications.
Poured Concrete Walls
For taller walls or heavy loads, poured concrete with steel reinforcement provides maximum strength. These walls require concrete footings below the frost line and may need engineering for heights over 4 feet. Poured walls can be left natural, stuccoed, or faced with stone or brick for a custom appearance.
Concrete Masonry Walls
Traditional concrete block (CMU) walls with mortar joints offer versatility and strength for both retaining and freestanding walls. These walls can be reinforced internally with rebar and concrete fill. They accept a variety of finishes, from simple paint to stone veneer to stucco.
Boulder and Stone Walls
Natural stone or large boulders create rustic, natural-looking walls that blend into landscapes. These walls work well for informal gardens and naturalized areas. We set stones on concrete footings for stability and use proper drainage behind the wall to prevent failure.
Proper Design Prevents Failures
Retaining walls fail when they're not properly designed for the soil conditions and loads they'll support. We assess your site carefully before recommending a wall system. Factors include soil type, slope angle, wall height, and whether the wall will support additional loads like driveways or structures.
Drainage is critical for retaining wall longevity. Water buildup behind walls creates hydrostatic pressure that can push walls over or cause them to crack and lean. We install proper drainage systems including gravel backfill, perforated drain pipes, and weep holes to relieve water pressure. This behind-the-wall work is just as important as the visible wall face.
Walls over 4 feet tall typically require engineering and permits in Arlington. We work with structural engineers when needed and handle all permitting. The wall will be built to code and inspected for your protection. Once your wall is complete, you might consider adding a concrete patio or walkway to make the most of your newly level space.
Concrete Masonry Services
Beyond retaining walls, we build all types of concrete masonry structures. Concrete block and poured concrete offer durability and versatility for many applications around your property.
Freestanding and Privacy Walls
Create privacy, block noise, or define outdoor rooms with concrete masonry walls. These walls don't retain soil but serve as fencing alternatives. We build them with proper footings and reinforcement to resist wind loads. They can be finished to match your home or left natural.
Outdoor Kitchens and Structures
Concrete block construction provides a stable, fireproof base for outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, and fireplaces. We build the structural framework that gets finished with stone, stucco, or tile. These structures need proper footings and often require coordination with other trades for utilities.
Planters and Garden Walls
Low walls for raised planters and garden beds combine function with landscape design. These walls create level planting areas, improve drainage, and add visual interest to your yard. We can match wall materials to other hardscaping for a coordinated look.
Retaining Wall FAQs
Need a retaining wall or masonry work? Get a free site evaluation and estimate.
(703) 952-9889