Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Strong, attractive retaining walls and masonry work that holds back soil, manages grades, and adds structure to your landscape.

(440) 577-2315
Retaining wall and concrete masonry work in Lorain, OH

Structural Walls That Last

Retaining walls serve important functions on sloped properties. They hold back soil, prevent erosion, create level areas for buildings or landscaping, and manage water drainage. Whether you need a short decorative wall for a flower bed or a tall structural wall to terrace your yard, CountyWorks Lorain Concrete can build the retaining wall in Lorain, OH that meets your needs.

We have been building retaining walls and concrete masonry structures in Lorain, OH since 2024. We understand soil pressure, drainage requirements, and proper construction techniques that ensure your wall stays stable for decades. From segmental block walls to poured concrete walls, we have the skills and equipment to handle projects of all sizes.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

We build several types of retaining walls depending on your needs and site conditions:

Segmental Block Walls

These walls use interlocking concrete blocks that stack without mortar. They come in various colors and textures that look like natural stone. Segmental block walls work well for heights up to 4 feet without reinforcement, and higher with proper engineering. They are attractive, relatively affordable, and easier to install than poured walls.

Poured Concrete Walls

Poured concrete retaining walls offer maximum strength for tall walls or heavy soil pressure. We build forms, install reinforcement, and pour concrete to create a monolithic structure. These walls can be finished smooth or textured, and work well where strength is the priority over decorative appearance.

Concrete Block Walls

Traditional concrete masonry units (CMU blocks) mortared together create strong walls that can be left exposed or covered with stucco or stone veneer. These walls work well for tall applications and can include decorative caps and finishes.

Timber and Hybrid Walls

For shorter walls or budget-conscious projects, treated timber can work. We can also build hybrid walls combining concrete footings with timber or other materials above.

We help you choose the right wall type based on height, soil conditions, appearance preferences, and budget.

Why Proper Wall Construction Matters

Retaining walls face tremendous pressure from soil, water, and freeze-thaw cycles. A poorly built wall can:

  • Lean, bulge, or collapse under soil pressure.
  • Crack and separate when water cannot drain properly.
  • Settle and become uneven if the footing is inadequate.
  • Fail during heavy rain or spring thaw.
  • Require expensive repairs or complete rebuilding.

We build walls right the first time using proven engineering principles. Every wall gets proper base preparation, adequate footings, correct drainage, and appropriate reinforcement for the height and soil conditions.

How We Build Your Retaining Wall

Quality retaining walls require careful planning and precise construction. Here is our process:

Site Evaluation and Design

We evaluate your property to understand the grade change, soil type, drainage, and any obstacles. We discuss your goals and preferences. For walls over 4 feet tall or with difficult conditions, we may recommend engineering. We create a plan that solves your problem and fits your budget.

Excavation and Base Preparation

We excavate for the wall footing, going below the frost line for structural walls. We create a level base and compact it thoroughly. For segmental block walls, we install a gravel leveling pad. For poured walls, we pour concrete footings with proper reinforcement.

Drainage Installation

This is the most critical step. We install drainage pipe behind the wall and add gravel backfill that allows water to flow to drainage outlets. Without proper drainage, water pressure will destroy even the strongest wall. We never skip drainage regardless of wall type.

Wall Construction

We build the wall using the appropriate method for your wall type. Segmental blocks are stacked with proper setback and pinning. Poured walls are formed, reinforced, and poured. Block walls are laid with mortar and reinforced with rebar and grout. We ensure the wall is level, plumb, and properly aligned.

Backfilling and Finishing

We backfill behind the wall in lifts, compacting each layer. We install caps or finishing elements. We grade the area above the wall for proper drainage away from the top of the wall. We clean up thoroughly and restore landscaping where possible.

Where Retaining Walls Are Used

Retaining walls solve many landscape challenges:

  • Terraced yards: Create multiple level areas on sloped properties for lawns, gardens, or patios.
  • Driveway cuts: Hold back soil where driveways are cut into hills.
  • Erosion control: Prevent soil from washing down slopes during rain.
  • Raised beds: Create planting areas with proper drainage and soil depth.
  • Level building sites: Create flat areas for slabs, patios, or structures.
  • Pool surrounds: Manage grade changes around pools and create attractive landscaping tiers.
  • Property line definition: Mark boundaries and create separation between properties at different elevations.

Why Choose CountyWorks for Your Retaining Wall

Building retaining walls requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Here is what makes us the right choice:

  • We understand soil mechanics and proper engineering principles.
  • We always install proper drainage, never cutting corners on this critical element.
  • We use adequate footings sized for the wall height and soil conditions.
  • We have the heavy equipment needed for excavation and material handling.
  • We properly compact backfill to prevent settling.
  • We can work with engineers when required for tall or complex walls.
  • We provide detailed estimates with clear specifications.
  • We stand behind our work with solid warranties.

Call us at (440) 577-2315 to discuss your retaining wall project. We will evaluate your site and provide a free estimate.

Retaining Wall Questions

Ready to Build Your Retaining Wall?

Get a free estimate from CountyWorks Lorain Concrete. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Lorain, OH with professional retaining wall and masonry services.

(440) 577-2315

Start Your Retaining Wall Project

Contact CountyWorks Lorain Concrete for expert retaining wall and concrete masonry services in Lorain, OH.

(440) 577-2315