Retaining Walls That Hold Grade and Control Erosion

Retaining wall installation in Washington County using durable materials suited to soil conditions and elevation changes.

Your yard in Washington County might drop three feet from the house to the property line, or your commercial lot might have a slope that washes soil onto the parking area every time it rains. Retaining walls address these elevation changes by creating level planting beds, usable patios, and stable borders that prevent erosion. Kartchco Construction installs walls designed to hold grade and integrate with surrounding hardscape without visible gaps or mismatched materials.

This service involves excavating the wall footprint, compacting base material, setting wall blocks or stone, and backfilling with drainage aggregate to prevent water buildup behind the wall. In Washington County, materials are selected for compatibility with soil composition and the freeze-thaw cycles that can shift poorly anchored walls. Walls are installed for residential yards and commercial properties where grade management is required.

Kartchco Construction can schedule a site assessment to measure elevation changes and discuss wall placement with you.

What goes into building a stable retaining wall

The process begins with excavation to establish a level base below the frost line, followed by compaction of crushed gravel or road base to create a stable foundation. In Washington County, this step often involves adjusting for rocky soil or clay that shifts with moisture. Block or stone is set in staggered courses, with each row checked for level and alignment before backfill is added.

After the wall is completed, you will see a clean vertical or stepped face that holds the soil behind it, level ground above the wall where planting beds or patios can be installed, and no visible settling or shifting in the courses. Drainage weep holes or aggregate prevent water from pooling behind the wall and causing pressure that could push it forward over time.

This service does not include landscaping or irrigation above the wall, though Kartchco Construction coordinates timing with those installations. Walls taller than four feet may require engineering and permitting depending on local codes and proximity to property lines. The final structure is designed to last without ongoing maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.

What property owners ask before building a wall

Most people want to know how tall the wall can be, what materials will hold up, and whether the wall will need maintenance after installation.

What materials are used for retaining walls?
Concrete block, natural stone, and engineered wall systems are selected based on wall height, soil type, and aesthetic preference. Kartchco Construction uses materials that perform well in Southern Utah soil and weather conditions.
How tall can a retaining wall be without engineering?
Walls under four feet typically do not require engineered drawings, but taller walls or those near property lines may need permits and structural plans. Kartchco Construction handles coordination with local code requirements.
What prevents the wall from shifting over time?
A compacted base, proper backfill, and drainage aggregate keep the wall stable by preventing water buildup and soil movement. Each course is leveled and set to distribute weight evenly.
Can retaining walls be curved or stepped?
Yes, walls can follow curves or step down slopes to match the terrain and integrate with hardscape or planting areas. Kartchco Construction plans the layout during the site visit based on your property's grade.
When should a retaining wall be installed in a landscape project?
Walls should be completed before final grading, turf installation, or planting so soil levels are set and drainage is established. Kartchco Construction schedules wall work early in the project sequence.

Kartchco Construction installs retaining walls for residential and commercial properties throughout Washington County, using materials and techniques suited to local soil and climate. Get in touch to schedule a site assessment and discuss your project.