Retaining Walls FAQs

Have questions? This is a short list of our most frequently asked questions about retaining walls and pillars. For more information, please call 877-728-3778.

• Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?

  A permit is typically required for all retaining walls and for any stone wall over 3 feet, though regulations vary depending on your location. It’s important to understand outdoor remodeling permits before starting your project to ensure compliance with local building codes. Fortunately, as your full-service outdoor renovation experts, we’ll handle all of those types of details from start to finish!

• What do retaining walls do?

  Retaining walls hold back (retain) soil on sloped properties, preventing erosion and creating stable, level areas in your yard. They're essential for managing hillsides and uneven terrain, allowing you to maximize usable outdoor space that would otherwise be too steep or unstable.

  
  
  

• What types of walls do you build?

  We can build stone walls in nearly any shape or size. If you need a wall for structural purposes to hold back soil, that's a retaining wall. We build lots of beautiful retaining walls. 

  However, other homeowners are looking for ways to define space in their yard using a freestanding wall. Sometimes referred to as sitting walls, freestanding walls usually do not require a permit if they are under three feet tall. We commonly build freestanding walls to create a border around a patio, build a raised garden bed, create seating around a fire pit, or add visual interest within an outdoor space.

  
  
  

• Can you incorporate lighting on a retaining wall or freestanding wall?

  Definitely! We can add permanent outdoor lighting into any type of wall we create. Nothing beats the look of a beautifully lit wall. Our experts can design and professionally install an LED lighting system that conserves energy, enhances safety, and illuminates your space beautifully.

• How long do retaining walls last?

  When professionally installed with quality materials, retaining walls can last for decades with proper maintenance. We stand behind our work with workmanship guarantees for retaining walls, ensuring your installation meets our quality specifications. This gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy outdoor activities in your enhanced landscape for years to come.

• Can retaining walls be built on sloped or uneven terrain?

  Yes. Retaining walls are specifically designed to address sloped and uneven terrain. They're an ideal solution for managing elevation changes in your landscape, creating usable flat areas where slopes once limited your outdoor space. Many homeowners build retaining walls to create level areas for pools with pool deck pavers for outdoor entertaining spaces. 

• How tall can a retaining wall be?

  The height of a retaining or stone patio wall depends on soil conditions, local building codes, and engineering requirements. While walls under 3 feet may not require permits in some areas, taller walls need proper engineering and permitting to ensure structural integrity. 

• Are retaining walls low-maintenance?

  Properly installed retaining walls require minimal maintenance. Periodic inspection for any settling or drainage issues and occasional cleaning are typically all that's needed to keep your wall looking great and functioning properly for decades. They're just as easy to maintain as other hardscape features like walkway pavers or driveway pavers.

  
  
  

• Can lighting or water features be added to my retaining wall?

  Absolutely! Retaining walls offer excellent opportunities for incorporating outdoor lighting or a built-in water features such as a fountain or waterfall. These additions can turn your wall into a stunning focal point while improving functionality and ambiance in your outdoor space.
  
  

• How much does a retaining wall cost?

  The cost of a yard or patio retaining wall varies based on height, length, materials, site conditions, and design complexity. We provide detailed estimates during your free consultation, taking into account all aspects of your specific project.
  
  

• Do you offer curved or custom-shaped retaining walls?

  Yes, we specialize in creating custom stone patio walls in virtually any shape or configuration. Curved walls can soften landscapes and create flowing designs, while custom shapes allow us to maximize your usable outdoor space. We can work around existing landscape elements or help you plan new features, from selecting the best trees to plant in your backyard areas to integrating patios, decking, and outdoor kitchens.