Concrete Contractors of Grapevine
Concrete & Foundations

Retaining Walls & Site Walls

Structural retaining walls for industrial site grade changes and separation.

Retaining walls manage grade changes across industrial sites, enabling development of sloping terrain and creating usable space on challenging topography. In the rolling hills of the Mid-Cities and Grapevine area, retaining walls often make the difference between a buildable site and an impractical one.

Wall height determines design complexity. Walls under 4 feet are relatively straightforward gravity walls. Taller walls require engineered designs with reinforcement, proper drainage, and sometimes tie-backs or geogrid reinforcement. We build walls from 2 feet to 30 feet or more depending on site requirements.

Material selection balances structural requirements, aesthetics, and budget. Cast-in-place concrete provides maximum strength and design flexibility. Segmental retaining walls offer speed and attractive finishes. Gabion walls work well in certain applications. We recommend materials appropriate for each specific situation.

Drainage behind retaining walls is absolutely critical. Hydrostatic pressure from saturated soil is the primary cause of wall failures. We install drainage aggregate, weep holes, and drain pipes to prevent water buildup behind walls. This hidden infrastructure is essential to long-term wall performance.

What's Included

Site survey and wall design coordination
Excavation for wall foundation
Foundation installation with proper depth
Wall construction: formed concrete or segmental
Drainage system installation
Backfill with drainage aggregate
Compaction in proper lifts
Surface drainage and erosion protection

Common Project Scenarios

01

Site grading requiring grade separation between areas

02

Building pad construction on sloped terrain

03

Parking lot construction with grade change from building

04

Loading dock approach where site slopes away from building

Ideal For

Property developers working with topographyIndustrial site owners needing level building padsCommercial projects requiring parking at different elevationsSite work contractors managing grade changes

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall can retaining walls be built?

There's no absolute limit, though taller walls require more substantial engineering and construction. We've built walls over 30 feet. Walls over 4 feet typically require engineered designs. Very tall walls may use terraced designs or specialized systems like soldier pile and lagging.

What causes retaining walls to fail?

Most failures result from inadequate drainage, allowing water pressure to build behind the wall. Other causes include insufficient foundation depth, poor compaction of backfill, and walls not designed for actual soil pressures. Proper engineering and construction prevent failures.

Do retaining walls require permits?

Yes, most jurisdictions require permits for retaining walls over 2 or 4 feet depending on location. Engineered drawings are typically required showing structural design and drainage details. We handle permit applications as part of our scope.

How long do retaining walls last?

Properly built concrete retaining walls should last 50 years or more. Segmental walls typically have design lives of 75 years. Key to longevity is proper drainage and foundation: walls built right last essentially forever.

Can you build walls on property lines?

Property line walls require consideration of easements, setbacks, and coordination with adjacent properties. We review these requirements during planning and ensure walls comply with all jurisdictional rules about boundary structures.

Request a Bid

Contact us about your retaining walls & site walls project. We respond to qualified inquiries within one business day.

Get StartedCall (682) 841-5785

We Work With

  • Industrial Developers
  • Property Owners
  • End Users / Occupants
  • Investment Groups

We do not provide subcontracting services. We are the general contractor.

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