Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

If you have a sloped yard, a retaining wall can transform unusable space into level areas for patios, gardens, or play areas. Retaining walls also prevent soil erosion, protect your foundation, and add structure to your landscape design. Whether you need a small decorative wall or a large structural retaining system, the key is proper engineering and construction that stands up to the forces of soil, water, and time.

At ReadyHands Lakewood Concrete, we build retaining walls and concrete masonry structures throughout Lakewood, WA. Since 2024, we have been helping homeowners and property managers solve drainage problems, create usable yard space, and enhance their properties with durable, attractive walls. We handle everything from design and engineering to excavation, drainage installation, and construction.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

We work with several different retaining wall systems, each with its own advantages:

• •Poured Concrete Walls: The strongest option for large retaining walls, especially when engineered and reinforced with steel. Ideal for walls over 4 feet tall or those supporting critical areas.
• •Concrete Block Walls: Built from interlocking concrete blocks that stack together. These walls are strong, versatile, and come in many styles and colors.
• •Segmental Retaining Walls (SRW): Modular block systems designed specifically for retaining applications. They are engineered for structural performance and visual appeal.
• •Decorative Masonry Walls: Shorter walls built primarily for aesthetics, using natural stone veneer, decorative block, or custom patterns.

We help you select the right wall system based on the height needed, soil conditions, budget, and the look you want to achieve.

Why Proper Design Matters

A retaining wall is not just stacked blocks or poured concrete. It is a structural system that must resist thousands of pounds of soil pressure. Poor design or construction leads to walls that lean, crack, or even collapse. That is why proper engineering is essential for any wall over 3 to 4 feet tall or any wall that supports a structure or driveway.

We evaluate your site conditions including soil type, slope angle, drainage patterns, and loads the wall must support. For larger walls, we work with structural engineers to create designs that meet building codes and ensure long-term stability. Key factors we address include foundation depth, wall reinforcement, drainage systems, and backfill specifications.

Our Retaining Wall Construction Process

Site Preparation and Excavation

We start by excavating for the wall foundation and preparing the area behind where the wall will sit. Proper excavation is critical because it allows us to install drainage systems and create the right base conditions for wall stability.

Foundation and Base Construction

We build a solid foundation using compacted gravel and, for larger walls, a concrete footing. The foundation must be level, solid, and below frost depth to prevent movement. This is where experience really matters, because a poor foundation will eventually cause the entire wall to fail.

Drainage Installation

Water is the enemy of retaining walls. We install drainage pipes and gravel backfill behind the wall to direct water away and prevent pressure buildup. This drainage system is essential for wall longevity and is often overlooked by inexperienced contractors.

Wall Construction

We build the wall according to engineering specifications, ensuring each course is level and properly aligned. For block walls, we use adhesive and pinning systems. For poured walls, we install forms and reinforcement before pouring. Throughout construction, we verify dimensions and alignment to ensure the wall meets design requirements. If you are planning additional concrete work like patios, check out our concrete patio installation services.

Backfill and Finishing

Once the wall is complete, we carefully backfill behind it using the proper materials. We also finish the top of the wall with capstones or coping for a polished look and added protection. Finally, we clean up the site and ensure proper grading for drainage.

Permits and Building Codes

Retaining walls over a certain height typically require building permits in Lakewood. The exact requirements depend on wall height, location, and what the wall supports. We handle permit applications and coordinate inspections to keep your project compliant and on schedule.

Working with permits actually protects you. It ensures the wall is properly engineered and built to code, which is important for safety and property value. When you eventually sell your home, you can show that the work was done legally and to professional standards.

Lakewood Retaining Wall Specialists

Lakewood's varied terrain means many properties need retaining walls to manage slopes and drainage. We understand local soil conditions, which can range from sandy loam to heavy clay. We know how to design and build walls that work with your specific site conditions.

We also understand that a retaining wall is often part of a larger landscape plan. We work with your landscaper, drainage contractor, and other trades to coordinate the project and ensure everything comes together smoothly. Our goal is to deliver a wall that solves your property challenges while enhancing its appearance and value. For complementary hardscaping, explore our concrete walkway services.