Retaining Wall Contractor for the Greater Sacramento Area

Retaining Walls to Keep Your Propert in Sacramento, El Dorado, and Placer County Protected

Why Retaining Walls Fail (and How We Prevent It)

Is your property facing erosion problems or unstable slopes? South Canyon Construction builds retaining walls engineered for safety and longevity. We serve homeowners throughout Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado Counties with retaining wall solutions built to code, with proper drainage, and designed to last decades, not years. Our focus is on structural integrity, not just appearance.

Many retaining walls in the Sacramento area fail within just a few years of installation. The reason isn’t bad luck, it’s poor construction practices. Understanding why walls fail is the first step to building one that lasts.

Poor Drainage

A retaining wall is only as strong as its foundation. Walls built on poorly compacted soil or without a proper base will shift, crack, and eventually fail. This is especially common in Sacramento’s varied soil conditions.

Our solution: We excavate to proper depth and install a compacted gravel base that provides stable support for the entire wall structure.

Incorrect Materials

Using the wrong materials for your specific site conditions leads to premature failure. Not all retaining wall blocks are created equal, and material selection should be based on engineering requirements, not just looks.

Our solution: We select materials based on structural needs, soil conditions, and load requirements—not just aesthetics.

The difference between a wall that lasts 5 years and one that lasts 50 years isn’t the visible parts, it’s what you can’t see behind and beneath the wall.

– South Canyon Construction Engineering Team

Suburban home with beautiful landscaping and stone steps.

Our Process for Building Safe, Long-Lasting Retaining Walls

At South Canyon Construction, we follow a systematic, engineering-based approach to every retaining wall project. We don’t take shortcuts because we understand that proper construction is essential for wall safety and longevity.

Site Assessment and Engineering: We start with a thorough evaluation of your property’s soil conditions, drainage patterns, and slope characteristics. For walls over 4 feet tall, we provide professional engineering plans that meet local building codes.

  1. Permit Acquisition: We handle all necessary permits with Sacramento, Placer, or El Dorado County building departments. We understand local codes and ensure your wall will pass inspection.
  2. Proper Excavation: We dig to the right depth based on wall height and soil conditions, creating a solid foundation for your wall.
  3. Base Installation: We install a compacted gravel base that provides stable support and helps with drainage.
  4. Drainage Systems: Every wall we build includes proper drainage with gravel backfill and perforated drain pipes to prevent water pressure buildup.
  5. Quality Materials: We use only code-approved, durable materials suited to your specific project requirements.
  6. Geogrid Reinforcement: For taller walls, we install geogrid reinforcement layers that tie the wall into the soil behind it, creating a stable, unified structure.
  7. Professional Installation: Our experienced crews follow engineered plans precisely, ensuring every block is level and properly positioned.
  8. Final Inspection: We conduct a thorough quality check and prepare for county inspections to make sure code compliance.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

Concrete Block Retaining Walls: Durable, engineered systems with interlocking blocks designed specifically for retaining walls.

Poured Concrete Walls: Custom-formed concrete walls with steel reinforcement for maximum strength.

Stone Gravity Walls: Traditional stone walls that use weight and setback to retain soil.

Timber Walls: Pressure-treated wood systems for specific applications where appropriate.

Gabion Walls: Wire baskets filled with stone for natural-looking erosion control.

Serving Sacramento Homeowners with Expert Retaining Wall Solutions

South Canyon Construction provides professional retaining wall services throughout the Greater Sacramento Area. We understand the unique soil conditions, drainage challenges, and building code requirements in each community we serve.

Why Choose South Canyon Construction for Your Retaining Wall

We hold all required California contractor licenses for structural work. Our comprehensive insurance coverage protects you and your property throughout the project.

Licensed & Insured

We hold all required California contractor licenses for structural work. Our comprehensive insurance coverage protects you and your property throughout the project.

Backyard pool with landscaped hill and retaining wall.

Licensed & Insured

We hold all required California contractor licenses for structural work. Our comprehensive insurance coverage protects you and your property throughout the project.

Code Compliant

We build every retaining wall to meet or exceed local building codes. We handle all permits and inspections, making sure your wall is legally constructed and will pass inspection.

Structural Expertise

Elegant courtyard with topiary and stone wall landscaping.

Our team includes experienced structural specialists who understand the engineering principles behind safe, effective retaining walls. We don’t just build walls, we build solutions.

We assess soil conditions, drainage patterns, and slope dynamics to design retaining walls that do more than hold back earth, they protect foundations, manage runoff, and create usable space. From tiered gardens to boundary support, every wall we build is tailored to the landscape it serves.

FAQs

In most Sacramento area jurisdictions, retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) require a building permit. Some locations have additional requirements based on proximity to property lines or slopes. We handle all permit applications and ensure your wall meets all local code requirements.

Retaining walls prevent soil erosion, stabilize slopes, improve drainage, and create level areas for better usability, while also enhancing the visual appeal and value of your landscape. Customizable materials and designs allow you to match your style and complement your home.

You should consider the purpose of the wall, site conditions like soil and drainage, material choices for durability and style, local regulations for permits, and professional consultation to ensure proper planning and execution. These steps guarantee a functional and long-lasting retaining wall.

Retaining wall costs vary based on height, length, material choice, site access, and soil conditions. Simple walls may start around $40-50 per square face foot, while complex engineered walls can cost $75-100+ per square face foot. We provide detailed, transparent estimates based on your specific project requirements.

With over 15 years of experience and a dedication to focused service, we bring professionalism, attention to detail, and clear communication to every project. Our clients value our ability to combine function and beauty, creating retaining walls that exceed expectations.