We specialize in new stone retaining wall installations and retaining wall repairs. Typically, we are removing existing wooden tie walls that have been in place for 20 – 25 years and have seen better days. New stone wall installations require a lot of time, materials, and effort to complete the project from start to finish. Some cities require engineered plans to assist with obtaining a building permit based upon the overall size of the structure.
We can assist with city permitting, engineering design, and have our own team to assist with any required inspections throughout the building process. Simply taking out, removing, and disposing of the existing wood ties is a separate job on its own. So we can start building the new wall now right?..nope! That’s right folks, it’s time to get your skid steer, shovel, and go to town! A gravity style retaining wall stays in place with an immense amount of rock and mortar holding it together. Most importantly, it’s the trench below grade that anchors the wall in position.
The overall dimensions of the footing or trench space will change in direct proportion to the overall height of the stone wall. For example, a 2’-3’ wall will have a bit smaller, more shallow trench compared to a wall over 5’-7’ in height. Several days are needed to dig out the trench prior to inspection. Next step is to “rock in the trench” This is a process of installing boulder rocks and mortar to create a solid foundation inside the trench space.
Once we have completely filled in our trench, we can begin setting our strings and setting tabs for wall alignment. Initial stages are to determine the overall layout of the wall in perspective to site conditions, surroundings, and/ or changes in grade. It’s critical to set your first row of exterior stone in the correct position to allow for continued progress throughout the build. We will continue to build up our rock and mortar along the back side of the wall and on top of the trench. Layer by layer will bring us up just shy of our preset space for the wall cap installation. Typically, we need to hand pick each stone to allow for the most consistency along the top of the stone wall. Again, each piece is hand cut and chiseled prior to being installed.
At this point, we are ready to perform the drainage work to allow any hard rain a chance to escape back behind the wall. 99% of retaining walls fail due to insufficient or lack of adequate drainage. Retaining walls are meant to retain or hold back the land mass around it – not hold back hydrostatic pressure from water accumulation like a dam. After all drainage work is complete, we can cover up and backfill the remaining space behind the wall to establish a final and proper grade. Stone retaining walls serve a serious purpose in protecting your property over the long term. You can always opt for a cheaper wooden panel wall design that will eventually rot, break down, and need replacement, or you can invest in a stone structure that will outlast any other potential option. Please fill out our contact form or give us a direct call to schedule an on site assessment and go over your retaining wall needs. We can also perform stone retaining wall repairs if you’re not needing a complete removal and replacement.