Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

More Than Just a Wall

Retaining walls do important work. They hold back soil on sloped properties, prevent erosion, create level planting beds, and turn unusable hillsides into functional outdoor space. But a poorly built retaining wall can fail, causing costly damage and safety hazards.

At KindWay Novato Concrete, we design and build retaining walls that handle the specific soil and drainage conditions of your property. We serve Novato, CA homeowners who need walls that combine structural integrity with attractive appearance. From small garden walls to large engineered structures, we build walls that last.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

We install several types of retaining walls, each suited to different applications:

• •Segmental Block Walls: Interlocking concrete blocks that don't require mortar, ideal for most residential applications up to 3-4 feet tall
• •Poured Concrete Walls: Custom-formed concrete walls for larger projects or when specific dimensions are needed
• •Concrete Block (CMU) Walls: Traditional mortared concrete block walls, often with a finished veneer or stucco coating
• •Boulder and Stone Walls: Natural stone set in concrete for a rustic, natural appearance
• •Planter Walls: Lower decorative walls (1-3 feet) that create raised planting areas and define spaces

Why Engineering Matters

Retaining walls hold back thousands of pounds of soil and water pressure. That's serious structural work that requires proper design:

Foundation and Footing

Every retaining wall needs a solid foundation. We excavate below grade, install a compacted gravel base, and pour concrete footings sized for the wall's height and the soil conditions. Walls over 4 feet often require engineered footings and may need permits.

Drainage Systems

Water is the biggest threat to retaining walls. Pressure from water-saturated soil can push walls over or cause failure. We install proper drainage systems including perforated drain pipes, gravel backfill, and weep holes that channel water away from the wall. Good drainage is non-negotiable.

Reinforcement and Anchoring

Taller walls need additional reinforcement. This might include geogrid fabric embedded in the backfill, steel reinforcement in concrete walls, or tie-back systems that anchor the wall to stable soil behind it. We follow engineering specifications to ensure your wall handles the loads.

Our Installation Process

We take a systematic approach to every retaining wall project:

Site Assessment: We evaluate the slope, soil type, drainage patterns, and existing conditions. This information guides our design recommendations.

Design and Permits: We design a wall that meets your needs and local building codes. Walls over certain heights require permits and engineering stamps. We handle the paperwork.

Excavation and Base Prep: We dig the trench, grade for proper drainage, and install the compacted base. Getting this step right is critical for long-term performance.

Wall Construction: We build the wall using proper techniques for the wall type. This includes leveling each course, installing drainage systems, and backfilling with appropriate materials.

Finishing and Cleanup: We add caps, finish exposed surfaces, and grade the area for proper drainage. Your property is left clean and ready for landscaping.

When You Need a Retaining Wall

Retaining walls solve several common property challenges:

Erosion Control: Steep slopes lose soil during heavy rains. Retaining walls stabilize slopes and prevent erosion damage.

Creating Level Areas: Turn sloped yards into usable patios, lawns, or garden beds by terracing with retaining walls.

Driveway and Walkway Support: Retain soil alongside driveways or create terraced pathways on hillside properties.

Defining Spaces: Use low planter walls to separate areas, create raised beds, or add visual interest to flat landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions