Retaining Walls
Retaining walls do real structural work — holding back grade, managing water, and creating usable level ground. We build walls that perform structurally and read as a deliberate part of the landscape, not an afterthought.
Structural walls that hold grade, manage drainage, and look intentional.
The Work
A retaining wall that fails usually fails because the base, drainage, or batter was wrong. We engineer walls with a proper compacted footing, geogrid reinforcement where the load demands it, and drainage that prevents hydrostatic pressure from building behind the wall.
From waterfront terraces to residential grade changes, our walls handle difficult elevations cleanly — the kind of work that's hard to execute well and where our experience shows.
What's Included
Engineered Footing
Compacted base and buried starter course sized to the wall height and retained load.
Drainage System
Gravel backfill and weep paths that prevent water pressure from building behind the wall.
Proper Batter & Setback
Walls are laid with the correct lean and setback so they resist overturning over time.
Clean Caps
Finished cap course secured with adhesive for a crisp, intentional top edge.
Our Process
Grade & Load Analysis
We assess the slope, soil, and retained load to size the footing and reinforcement.
Excavate & Base
We cut to depth and compact the base course, which is partially buried for stability.
Build & Backfill
Units are laid with proper batter while clean gravel backfill and drainage go in behind.
Cap & Finish
Caps are set and the area is graded and cleaned up.
Why North Lion
- Proper drainage prevents the most common wall failure
- Experience with difficult waterfront and elevation work
- Walls built to hold grade for the long term
- Clean execution and professional finish
Project Gallery
Waterfront retaining wall & terrace
Retaining wall with precision edging
Multi-level wall & pool surround
Frequently Asked
How tall can a retaining wall be before it needs engineering?
Walls over roughly 4 feet typically require engineered reinforcement. We'll advise on this during the estimate and bring in engineering where the load demands it.
Why do retaining walls fail?
Almost always from poor drainage or an inadequate base. We build both correctly so the wall holds for the long term.
Get a Free Quote
Tell us about your retaining walls project. A North Lion hardscape specialist will follow up within 24 hours to schedule your on-site consultation.
Get a Quote
$2M Insured