Retaining Walls

A retaining wall is a structure that is built to help mitigate grading (slope) issues. Retaining walls can be used to help manage drainage, soil erosion, and levelling of the grade. Retaining walls are sometimes a requirement of a project and other times can be an aesthetic choice. Retaining walls are usually made from cinder blocks, interlock pavers or armour stones.

Decks Ottawa can design and engineer retaining walls as part of your deck, garden, fence and overall landscaping design projects in the Ottawa area.

• Decorative borders
• Raised flower beds
• Terraced platforms
• Prevent erosion
• Help with drainage
• Load bearing utility

Once we determine the slope/grade of your property we can calculate the required height and strength your project needs.  Depending on these requirements you can choose what type of material to use based on your style.  

Building a retaining wall is similar to the process of installing interlock pavers.  The quality of the foundation is the most important aspect of building a quality retaining wall.  Ottawa’s winters mean lots of freezing and thawing which translates into expansion and contraction.  Using the proper aggregate for your base and making sure it is deep enough to support the load ensures you get a product that will last.  

Decks Ottawa always recommends concrete or stone material for your retaining wall.  Wooden ties are perhaps more affordable but while in contact with the ground it is only a matter of time before they rot and need to be replaced.  While holding back tons of soil this isn’t a small task.  A retaining built from stone is guaranteed to outlast any wall made from wood.

Retaining wall permits are required and inspection required on projects that are over 1.2 metres in height.  As a customer of Decks Ottawa you’ll never have to worry about these details.  We have been installing retaining walls since 2005.  The costs, inspection and scheduling will be itemized on your quote so you can be confident your landscape retaining wall is safe, secure and going to last.  

Retaining walls are serious projects.  Hiring the right contractor that has experience in construction and project management helps you avoid regrettable decisions.  Decks Ottawa has a team of licensed, certified and trained professionals who can design a retaining wall that is engineered to last. 

Decks Ottawa offer free in home consultations so you can ask the questions that matter to you.  Our designers offer their decades of knowledge, expertise and advice and they will happily sketch something up so can visualize the project better.