Our Retaining Wall Services and the Tools We Use
Segmental Block Retaining Walls
Segmental block walls use interlocking concrete units stacked in rows. Each row steps back slightly into the hillside. For walls taller than three feet, we lay polyethylene geogrid reinforcement mesh between the soil layers during backfill. We tension this mesh using a mechanical lever-action geogrid tensioning bar before we compact each layer. This holds the block face firmly in place. All block wall work follows California Building Code Section 1807.2 structural stability specifications.
Poured Concrete Retaining Walls
Poured concrete gives the most strength for tight spaces and steep grades. We set steel rebar cages inside wood forms. Next, we align the forms using an adjustable steel formwork bracing alignment turnbuckle jack to hold plumb during the pour. Then we fill the forms with 4000 PSI ready-mix structural portland concrete and vibrate out air pockets. Every wall meets the El Dorado County Grading Ordinance Chapter 110.14 height permit threshold.
Natural Stone and Boulder Retaining Walls
Boulder walls use gravity to hold the slope. Heavy granite rocks lock against each other without mortar or pins. We place irregularly shaped natural grey granite landscape boulders to match the foothill terrain. Also, we use a three-jaw mechanical boulder lifting grapple to set each stone precisely. The gaps between stones let water pass through and drain naturally. All boulder wall work follows California Residential Code Section R404.4 gravity retaining wall design guidelines.
Retaining Wall Drainage and Waterproofing
Water destroys walls. A good drain system stops that. We run a perforated corrugated high-density polyethylene drainage pipe along the full base of every wall. Next, we cover the back of the wall with a drainage sheet. We pin this sheet using a spring-loaded geocomposite drainage sheet fastening gun before we pour in clean drain rock. Water escapes through weep holes at the base. All drainage grading meets California Residential Code Section R401.3 site drainage and runoff disposal requirements.
What Makes Our Retaining Wall Crew Different
We have worked in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, and the surrounding foothill towns for over fifteen years. Our clients stay with us because we do things the right way from the start.
- Licensed and Insured (CSLB No. 970596): Our license covers every job and protects your property if anything goes wrong.
- Free On-Site Evaluation: We walk your yard, measure the slope grade, and check soil type before we give you a number.
- Clear Written Estimates: Every line item is on paper before a shovel touches the ground. No surprise costs added later.
- HOA Submittal Packages: We prepare stamped drawings and color approval sheets for Serrano, Blackstone, and The Promontory.
- Drainage Built Into Every Wall: Gravel backfill and perforated drain pipe are included in our standard build, not sold as add-ons.
- No Subcontractors: Our own crew handles every step from excavation to wall cap. The same faces start and finish your job.
- Daily Site Cleanup: We haul off debris and clear the work zone at the end of each day. Your yard stays orderly throughout the build.
Six Steps to a Finished Retaining Wall
Site Walk and Grade Check
We measure the slope angle, test the soil, and mark the wall line.
Trench and Footing Excavation
We dig into firm subgrade below the frost line to create a solid base.
Gravel Base and Leveling Course
We place crushed drain rock and compact it to form a flat, stable starting surface.
Drainage Pipe and Fabric Installation
We run the perforated pipe along the footing, wrap it in geotextile, and start the gravel backfill.
Wall Construction and Geogrid Placement
We set each course of block, stone, or concrete, adding geogrid layers at required intervals for taller walls.
Cap Installation and Final Backfill
We bond the top cap row, compact the final backfill, and grade the surface to match your yard.
Ready to Stop the Sliding? Call Us Today
Your slope problem will not fix itself. Call us to schedule a free walk of your yard. We bring our own measuring tools and soil probe. You get a clear plan and a firm price with no pressure to decide on the spot.
Call Don Today: 916-439-8096
Request a Visit Online: Book your free site consultation
Questions Homeowners Ask Before They Call
Do I need a building permit for my retaining wall?
Yes, if the wall is over four feet tall or holds back soil behind a structure. We pull the permits and handle the inspection process from start to finish.
What is the main reason retaining walls collapse?
Water pressure causes most wall failures. When rain has no way out from behind the wall, the saturated soil becomes extremely heavy. That weight pushes the wall forward. A good drain pipe and gravel system stops this from happening.
My wall is already leaning. Can you save it?
We start with a full evaluation. If the base is still solid and only drainage is the issue, a repair may work. If the foundation has shifted or the blocks are cracked throughout, a full rebuild is the right call and the safer long-term option.
Which material lasts longest on a steep slope?
Poured concrete and geogrid-reinforced segmental block walls handle steep grades and heavy loads best. Natural boulder walls are also very durable because they rely on mass and gravity rather than pins and adhesive.
Can you build tiered walls on a very steep yard?
Yes. A tiered system breaks a steep grade into multiple shorter walls with flat terraces between them. This spreads the load, creates usable flat space, and looks much cleaner than one tall wall.
How long will my project take from start to finish?
A simple residential wall takes two to four days on site. A larger structural wall with engineering and county permits typically takes one to two weeks total, including the review period.