Retaining Walls

Professional Retaining Wall Construction in Pomona, CA

Protect your property and create stunning landscape features with expertly constructed retaining walls from Pomona Concrete. As experienced concrete contractors serving the San Gabriel Valley, we specialize in designing and building retaining walls that combine structural integrity with aesthetic appeal. Whether you need erosion control, level yard space, or decorative landscape features, our retaining walls provide long-lasting solutions that enhance your property's value and functionality.

Why Retaining Walls Are Essential in Pomona

Pomona's hilly terrain and clay soil conditions often require retaining walls for:

• Erosion Control: Preventing soil loss during heavy rains
• Slope Stabilization: Securing unstable hillsides and embankments
• Usable Space Creation: Converting slopes into level, functional areas
• Property Protection: Protecting structures from soil movement
• Drainage Management: Controlling water flow and preventing flooding
• Landscape Enhancement: Creating terraced gardens and outdoor living areas
• Property Value: Increasing usable space and aesthetic appeal

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

We construct various types of retaining walls to meet different needs:

• Concrete Block Walls:
• Standard CMU: Cost-effective solution for most applications
• Decorative Block: Textured and colored blocks for enhanced appearance
• Interlocking Systems: Engineered blocks for superior strength
• Split-Face Block: Natural stone appearance with concrete durability
• Custom Patterns: Unique layouts and designs

• Poured Concrete Walls:
• Reinforced Concrete: Maximum strength for high walls and heavy loads
• Decorative Finishes: Stamped, stained, or textured surfaces
• Architectural Concrete: Custom forms for unique shapes and features
• Precast Panels: Efficient installation with consistent quality
• Tilt-Up Construction: Large wall sections for commercial applications

• Specialty Walls:
• Segmental Retaining Walls: Modular systems for complex applications
• Gravity Walls: Relying on mass for stability
• Cantilever Walls: Engineered walls for maximum efficiency
• Counterfort Walls: Reinforced walls for extreme heights
• Gabion Walls: Wire basket systems filled with stone

Engineering and Design Process

Every retaining wall project begins with thorough engineering:

• Site Analysis:
• Soil Testing: Determining soil bearing capacity and composition
• Slope Evaluation: Assessing existing conditions and stability
• Drainage Assessment: Understanding water flow patterns
• Load Calculations: Determining lateral earth pressures
• Seismic Considerations: Earthquake resistance requirements
• Utility Location: Identifying and protecting existing utilities

• Design Development:
• Height Determination: Optimizing wall height for effectiveness
• Foundation Design: Proper footing size and depth
• Reinforcement Planning: Steel placement for structural integrity
• Drainage Integration: Comprehensive water management systems
• Aesthetic Considerations: Appearance and landscape integration
• Code Compliance: Meeting all local building requirements

• Permit and Approval:
• Structural Calculations: Engineer-stamped plans when required
• Permit Application: Complete submission to building department
• Plan Review: Coordination with city reviewers
• Inspection Scheduling: Arranging required inspections
• Final Approval: Ensuring compliance with approved plans

Professional Construction Process

Our systematic approach ensures structural integrity and longevity:

• Phase 1: Site Preparation
• Excavation: Precise digging to engineered depths and dimensions
• Utility Protection: Safeguarding existing infrastructure
• Soil Stabilization: Treating problematic soils as needed
• Base Preparation: Installing and compacting aggregate base
• Grade Verification: Confirming proper elevations and slopes

• Phase 2: Foundation Construction
• Footing Excavation: Digging foundations below frost line
• Reinforcement Placement: Installing steel according to engineering plans
• Concrete Placement: High-strength concrete for foundation stability
• Curing: Proper curing for maximum strength development
• Inspection: Verification of foundation quality

• Phase 3: Wall Construction
• First Course: Critical placement of first row of blocks or forms
• Reinforcement Integration: Continuous steel placement through wall
• Drainage Installation: Weep holes and drainage systems
• Quality Control: Continuous monitoring of alignment and level
• Backfill Coordination: Proper backfilling as construction progresses

• Phase 4: Finishing Work
• Cap Installation: Decorative or functional wall caps
• Surface Treatment: Cleaning, sealing, or decorative finishes
• Drainage Completion: Final drainage system installation
• Landscape Integration: Coordination with landscaping plans
• Final Inspection: Quality verification and client approval

Drainage Systems and Water Management

Proper drainage is critical for retaining wall performance:

• Behind-Wall Drainage:
• French Drains: Perforated pipes in gravel beds
• Drainage Fabric: Geotextiles to prevent soil migration
• Gravel Backfill: Free-draining material behind wall
• Weep Holes: Openings to relieve water pressure
• Outlet Systems: Proper discharge of collected water

• Surface Drainage:
• Swales: Channels to direct surface water away from wall
• Gutters: Collection systems for roof runoff
• Grading: Proper slopes to prevent water accumulation
• Inlet Protection: Preventing debris from clogging drains

• Subsurface Drainage:
• Underdrain Systems: Deep drainage below wall foundation
• Sump Systems: Active water removal where needed
• Waterproofing: Moisture barriers on wall back
• Soil Modification: Improving drainage characteristics of backfill

Height and Load Considerations

We build retaining walls for various applications:

• Low Walls (Under 4 feet):
• Garden Terraces: Creating level planting areas
• Landscape Features: Decorative elements in yard design
• Driveway Retention: Supporting driveway edges
• Patio Walls: Defining outdoor living spaces
• Simple Drainage: Basic erosion control

• Medium Walls (4-8 feet):
• Slope Stabilization: Securing moderate hillsides
• Yard Leveling: Creating usable flat areas
• Pool Retention: Supporting pool area grading
• Commercial Landscaping: Business property features
• Parking Areas: Supporting parking lot grades

• High Walls (Over 8 feet):
• Major Slope Retention: Securing steep hillsides
• Commercial Applications: Large-scale retention projects
• Infrastructure Support: Supporting roads and utilities
• Engineered Systems: Complex multi-tiered walls
• Seismic Resistance: Earthquake-resistant designs

Decorative Options and Finishes

Retaining walls can be both functional and beautiful:

• Block Finishes:
• Natural Stone Texture: Realistic stone appearance
• Split-Face Finish: Rough, natural texture
• Smooth Face: Clean, modern appearance
• Colored Blocks: Integral colors for custom appearance
• Pattern Variations: Creative laying patterns

• Concrete Finishes:
• Stamped Patterns: Stone, brick, or custom textures
• Stained Surfaces: Acid or water-based color treatments
• Exposed Aggregate: Natural stone textures
• Architectural Forms: Custom shapes and features
• Combination Finishes: Multiple techniques for unique results

• Cap and Coping Options:
• Concrete Caps: Matching or contrasting concrete tops
• Natural Stone: Limestone, sandstone, or granite caps
• Precast Elements: Manufactured caps with consistent quality
• Custom Profiles: Unique edge treatments
• Integrated Features: Built-in planters or seating

Maintenance and Longevity

Properly constructed retaining walls require minimal maintenance:

• Regular Inspection:
• Drainage Function: Ensuring water systems work properly
• Structural Integrity: Checking for cracks or movement
• Joint Condition: Monitoring mortar joints and connections
• Vegetation Control: Managing plant growth on or near wall
• Backfill Condition: Ensuring proper support behind wall

• Preventive Maintenance:
• Drainage Cleaning: Keeping weep holes and drains clear
• Joint Sealing: Maintaining weatherproof seals
• Surface Cleaning: Removing stains and organic growth
• Vegetation Management: Controlling root systems near wall
• Load Management: Preventing overloading of wall

• Long-term Performance:
• 50+ Year Lifespan: Quality walls last for decades
• Minimal Repairs: Well-built walls need few repairs
• Stable Performance: Consistent function over time
• Weather Resistance: Withstanding all climate conditions
• Seismic Resilience: Earthquake resistance when properly designed

Cost Factors and Investment Value

Retaining wall costs depend on several factors:

• Project Variables:
• Height and Length: Primary cost determinants
• Wall Type: Block vs. poured concrete vs. specialty systems
• Site Conditions: Access, soil conditions, and existing features
• Drainage Complexity: Extent of water management systems
• Decorative Elements: Finishes and aesthetic features
• Engineering Requirements: Structural design and calculations

• Typical Investment Ranges:
• Basic Block Walls: $25-40 per square foot
• Decorative Block Walls: $35-55 per square foot
• Poured Concrete Walls: $40-70 per square foot
• Engineered Systems: $50-100+ per square foot

• Value Benefits:
• Property Protection: Preventing costly erosion damage
• Usable Space: Creating valuable level areas
• Property Value: Increasing overall property worth
• Insurance Benefits: Reducing liability and damage risks
• Long-term Savings: Minimal maintenance over decades

Environmental Considerations

Our retaining walls support environmental sustainability:

• Erosion Prevention: Protecting local water quality
• Habitat Creation: Terraced areas for native plantings
• Stormwater Management: Controlling runoff and flooding
• Local Materials: Reducing transportation impacts
• Longevity: Durable construction reduces replacement needs
• Recyclable Materials: Concrete and steel can be recycled

Warranty and Service

We stand behind every retaining wall project:

• Structural Warranty: 10-year coverage against major defects
• Workmanship Warranty: 5-year coverage on construction quality
• Drainage Warranty: 3-year coverage on water management systems
• Material Warranty: Full manufacturer warranties on all materials
• Emergency Service: Priority response for structural concerns
• Maintenance Support: Ongoing consultation and inspection services

Our commitment extends beyond project completion. We provide detailed maintenance guidelines, periodic inspections, and remain available for questions throughout your retaining wall's lifetime. Protect your property and enhance your landscape with professional retaining wall construction from Pomona Concrete – where structural engineering meets landscape beauty.