05/08/2026
Let’s talk retaining walls, different styles pros and cons.
Natural Stone retaining walls can be built in different ways. Smaller stones commonly require a concrete footing for a base and are held together with mortar. While larger stones are commonly built using a crushed recycled concrete or crushed limestone base with the first course or row half way in the ground to prevent them from being pushed forward and often depend on the massive size and weight alone to stay in place and not be toppled over. Both large and small would need proper water drainage to ensure integrity and longevity. These have been used for centuries and could be a great accent to any stone house.
Cinder block or split face cinder block retaining walls are a common practice and when built properly with correct drainage can last a lifetime. They are built on a concrete footing with rebar. The block are held together with mortar and the cells should be filled with concrete and rebar including a horizontal bond beam course or two. Occasionally depending on back pressure, may have a “dead man” style anchor to help prevent the structure from toppling over. They are porous and soak up water like a sponge causing deterioration over time with our beautiful Midwest freeze that winters. But these have been used and proven to be dependable designs for years and years, especially with proper water drainage. Great accent any style home and nice curb appeal.
More modern landscaping type of split face block come in many different sizes, styles of block and colors. They are often built on a crushed recycled concrete or crushed limestone base. They are
Often held together with a backside lip and some glue/adhesive. These styles have not been around as long as stone or cinder block walls but are proven to be durable when properly built and using proper drainage. They are porous and soak up water like a sponge and the Midwest freeze thaw effect we get with our winter can deteriorate the block. However with the assortment of colors sizes and styles this style may be more fitting for you and offer great curb appeal.
A few things they all have in common is they are not necessarily cheap or easy. They all require proper drainage to ensure integrity and durability. Last but not least when built correctly they do their job and can add value to your home.
We have built retaining walls of all three styles back them with a 10 year craftsmanship warranty and guarantee. We always use proper drainage and seal our porous block walls with a penetrating invisible sealer to prevent them from soaking in the water the causes deterioration. Give us a call or send us a message to see what we can do to help you and add value to your home. 402-618-4218
