Wall purpose and height
The retained elevation, slopes above and below, nearby structures and intended use establish the wall’s demands.
Structure, drainage and a clean finish
Retaining Walls
Landscape and structural retaining solutions with proper excavation, drainage, base and backfill.
The scope
Built as a complete system.
A retaining wall manages both soil and water. We build from a prepared foundation, include drainage and backfill details, and coordinate engineering when the site or wall requires it.
- Excavation and site preparation
- Compacted aggregate footing
- Segmental block and landscape walls
- Drain rock and filter fabric
- Backfill and grading
- Engineering coordination where required
Planning the work
What we account for before construction.
A retaining wall must respond to height, soil, surcharge, drainage and the space available for excavation and reinforcement. Appearance is selected only after the structural conditions are understood.
Foundation and soil
Subgrade strength, embedment, base preparation and reinforcement requirements are reviewed before block or other facing is selected.
Drainage behind the wall
Free-draining aggregate, filter separation and a practical outlet help prevent water pressure from building behind the structure.
Design requirements
Tall, loaded or complex walls may require engineering, permits or specialist details before construction pricing can be finalized.
The RiverCity difference
Built from the base up.
The visible block is only part of the system. We focus on the base, drainage, reinforcement and backfill that determine how the wall performs.
Our process
Clear from first walk to final review.
Evaluate
We review wall height, loads, drainage, access and permit or engineering needs.
Prepare
The footing is excavated and built to the system requirements.
Construct
Wall units, drainage and backfill are installed in coordinated stages.
Preparing an accurate quote
Information that helps us understand the real scope.
Good early information reduces assumptions and helps identify the right site visit, measurements and construction approach for your retaining walls project.
Start your project request- Approximate wall length and height
- Photos showing the slope and access
- What is above and below the wall
- Preferred wall material
- Known drainage or groundwater
- Available drawings, survey or engineering
Common questions
Good to know.
Do retaining walls need drainage?
Yes. Managing water behind the wall is a core part of a dependable retaining system.
Will my wall need engineering or a permit?
That depends on height, location, loads and local requirements. We identify those factors during planning and can coordinate the required professionals.
Vancouver Island service areas
Local work from Campbell River to Central and North Island.
Start a project
Planning a retaining walls project?
Tell us what you want to build and where the project is located. We’ll help define the right next step.