retaining wall

A retaining wall is a wall built to prevent soil from falling or sliding down from a higher elevation to a lower elevation.  In a residential context, you probably think of a retaining wall as a garden wall.  In houses built on hills, it can go around the outside of the garden to prevent the soil from the garden from falling onto the street below.  Walls that surround elevated, large planters are actually retaining walls, as well. 

The types of retaining walls are determined not by how they look from the outside but by how they are engineered.  A gravity wall is a retaining wall that keeps the soil in place by its own weight.  It is vertical on the soil side and angled on the street, so that it is narrower at the top and wider at the bottom.  It also extends slightly below the ground at street level.  These types of walls were the most common type in the early 20th century, but now there are even more stable types of retaining walls available.  Piling walls are much narrower than gravity walls, and they are vertical on both sides.  They extend deep into the ground, and they are held in place by long piles which, in turn, are held in place by soil.  A cantilever wall is shaped like a bookend and functions similarly; its lever arms at the bottom fits into the soil the way that a bookend holds the books in place by a lever arm that slides under the books.  Some cantilevered walls are shaped like an upside down “T”, with horizontal pieces extending in both directions.  An anchored wall is narrow and vertical on both sides like a piling wall, but instead of piles below ground level, it is held in place by anchors that extend into the soil that it is trying to stop from falling. 

Many retaining walls in the yards of houses are built from interlocking concrete blocks.  Retaining walls made of more elegant materials are also available.  We at Elkhart Landscape can build one or more retaining walls in your front yard to give it a terraced look.  We can even install lighting into your retaining wall to give your garden or yard an elegant look.  You cannot, however, install a fire pit in or near a concrete wall, since high temperatures can cause the concrete wall to collapse. '

It is possible to build small retaining walls as a do it yourself project.  Retaining walls that are suitable as summer DIY projects are small retaining walls, not more than four feet tall, especially those made of blocks.  Anything taller than that requires the expertise of a professional engineer. 


All of our products have been thoroughly tested for safety and are made of durable materials.  We offer full service installation of retaining walls.  In the rare event that they require maintenance, we also offer that.  Call us or email us today to discuss your options for building a retaining wall on your property. 

​Retaining Wall Services in Elkhart, Indiana – Frequently Asked Questions

A well-designed retaining wall can transform your outdoor space while providing important structural support for your property. At Elkhart Landscape, we provide professional retaining wall solutions for homeowners and businesses throughout Elkhart, Indiana.

Whether you need to control soil erosion, create usable outdoor areas, or improve the appearance of your landscape, our team can help design and install a retaining wall that fits your needs.
Retaining walls are more than just decorative features. They help manage changes in elevation, prevent soil from shifting, and protect landscaping from drainage problems. With proper planning, materials, and installation, a retaining wall can add long-lasting value and beauty to your property.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Walls

What is the purpose of a retaining wall?
A retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion on sloped areas. Many properties in Elkhart, Indiana have uneven terrain where water runoff and soil movement can create landscaping challenges. A retaining wall helps stabilize the ground while creating a more functional and attractive outdoor space.

Why should I install a retaining wall on my property?
Retaining walls provide several benefits for residential and commercial landscapes. They can help prevent soil erosion, improve drainage, create garden beds, add usable yard space, and enhance the overall appearance of your property. A professionally installed retaining wall can also increase curb appeal and property value.

What materials are commonly used for retaining walls?
Retaining walls can be built using a variety of materials depending on your style preferences, budget, and landscape needs. Common options include concrete blocks, natural stone, brick, and timber. Each material offers unique benefits, and Elkhart Landscape can help you choose the best option for your property.

How do I know if I need a retaining wall?
Signs that you may need a retaining wall include soil erosion, water pooling, a steep slope, exposed tree roots, or areas of your yard that are difficult to maintain. If your landscape has elevation changes or drainage concerns, a retaining wall may provide the stability and protection your property needs.

How long does a retaining wall last?
The lifespan of a retaining wall depends on the materials used, installation quality, drainage system, and maintenance. A properly constructed retaining wall can last for many years while continuing to provide structural support and visual appeal. Professional installation helps ensure your wall is built to withstand local weather conditions.

Do retaining walls help with drainage?
Yes. Proper drainage is one of the most important parts of retaining wall installation. Without adequate drainage, water pressure can build up behind the wall and cause damage. Elkhart Landscape designs retaining walls with proper drainage solutions to help protect the structure and surrounding landscape.

Can a retaining wall improve my landscaping design?
Absolutely. Retaining walls are excellent landscaping features that can add dimension and organization to your yard. They can be used to create raised flower beds, define outdoor living areas, build terraced gardens, and make sloped spaces more attractive and functional.

How much maintenance does a retaining wall require?
Retaining walls typically require minimal maintenance when properly installed. Regular inspections, removing weeds, checking drainage areas, and addressing small issues early can help extend the life of your wall. Keeping your landscape well-maintained also helps protect the surrounding area.

Can Elkhart Landscape design a custom retaining wall?
Yes. Every property is different, and our team can create a retaining wall design that matches your landscape goals. We consider factors such as property layout, soil conditions, drainage needs, and your preferred style to develop a solution that works for your outdoor space.

Why choose Elkhart Landscape for retaining wall installation?Elkhart Landscape provides dependable landscaping services for homeowners and businesses in Elkhart, Indiana. Our team focuses on quality workmanship, thoughtful design, and durable results. From small residential projects to larger landscape improvements, we are committed to creating outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional.

Contact Elkhart Landscape today to learn more about professional retaining wall installation and discover how we can improve your Elkhart, Indiana property with a custom landscape solution.