100% Natural Stone Landscape

This retaining wall replacement project took place in Huntsville, AL for a homeowner who wanted their landscape secure while keeping a natural stone look. The existing retaining walls were failing, so the client asked us to remove the old walls and build new, structurally sound walls that matched the natural aesthetic of the property.

We began by demoing the old retaining walls and preparing the site. Each new wall was built using cinder block units set on a continuous concrete footer, providing a stable base and proper bearing for the height and loads involved. The concrete footer ensured the walls had a level, durable foundation to prevent future settling.

For internal reinforcement we installed vertical rebar inside the block cells and then core filled those cells with concrete. This rebar and core-fill combination increases the structural strength of the retaining walls and ties the blocks into the footer below. Those steps were important because the client wanted the landscape to be secure for the long term.

We also completed a structural upgrade for drainage. Behind each new retaining wall we installed drains and placed clean gravel backfill. The drains and gravel are designed to allow water to exit as needed, reducing hydrostatic pressure on the wall. After installing the drainage components, we covered the gravel with top soil so the landscape above could be planted and look natural again.

To achieve the natural stone appearance the client wanted, we built a stacked stone face over the cinder block structure. The stacked stone was set with mortar on the backside so the block wall and structural work would be as hidden as possible. Larger natural stones were used as caps on top of the walls to complete the look and provide a finished edge.

We also incorporated natural stone treads into the project to create a path up the slope adjacent to the walls. Each tread measured three feet wide and eighteen inches deep. Because of the size and weight of these treads, they were installed using a machine to ensure precise placement and safe handling.

Throughout the job our focus stayed on combining structural reliability with the client's desired natural aesthetic. The new retaining walls in Huntsville, AL provide the engineered support the landscape needed, while the stacked stone facing, stone caps, and integrated stone treads preserve the natural look the homeowner requested.

Service provided: Hardscaping Services

Location: Huntsville, AL