How to Choose the Right Retaining Wall for Your Landscape

Retaining walls are more than just a landscaping feature—they're a structural solution that can transform the function and aesthetics of your yard.

Whether you’re dealing with a slope, erosion issues, or simply want to add dimension and style to your outdoor space, the right retaining wall can make all the difference.

At Salas Outdoors, we design and build durable, beautiful retaining walls that are made to last. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best retaining wall for your landscape.

1. Determine the Purpose of Your Retaining Wall

Before diving into materials and styles, it’s important to clarify why you need a retaining wall in the first place.

Common purposes:

• Erosion control: Stabilize soil on sloped terrain.
• Terracing: Create usable levels on a steep property.
• Structural support: Prevent soil from sliding downhill.
• Aesthetic enhancement: Add depth and visual appeal.
• Functional zones: Separate garden beds, patios, or pathways.

Once you define your goal, choosing the right type of wall becomes much easier.

2. Explore the Different Types of Retaining Walls

Not all retaining walls are the same. Depending on the terrain, load, and desired look, different styles are better suited.

Main types include:

• Gravity Walls
  These rely on their weight and bulk to hold back soil. Best for shorter walls (up to 3–4 feet).
• Cantilevered Walls
  Made with reinforced concrete and built to handle larger loads. Ideal for taller or more complex designs.
• Segmental Retaining Walls (SRW)
  Made of interlocking blocks that don’t require mortar. Flexible, attractive, and great for most residential uses.
• Anchored Walls
  Reinforced with cables or anchors for high-load applications or very steep slopes.

For most homeowners, segmental block walls offer the perfect balance of form and function.

3. Choose the Best Retaining Wall Material

The material you choose will impact both the appearance and performance of the wall.

Popular options:

• Concrete Blocks: Affordable, strong, and available in many textures/colors.
• Natural Stone: Premium, rustic, and visually timeless.
• Brick: Classic and durable, but usually used for shorter walls.
• Timber: Warm and natural, but may deteriorate faster in wet climates.
• Poured Concrete: Sleek and modern, with high structural integrity.

At Salas Outdoors, we’ll help you select the best material for your landscape, budget, and long-term vision.

4. Factor in Drainage and Stability

Even the best-looking retaining wall will fail without proper drainage and structural support.

Drainage essentials:

• Weep holes to relieve hydrostatic pressure
• Gravel backfill to aid water flow
• Drainage pipes for taller walls or poor soil conditions

Our team ensures your retaining wall doesn’t just look good—it holds up against the elements for years to come.

5. Match the Design to Your Landscape Style

Retaining walls don’t have to be strictly functional—they can also be a beautiful design element that complements your yard.

Design tips:

• Use curved walls to soften straight lines
• Match stone or block tones to other hardscape features
• Add built-in planters or lighting for extra character
• Tier multiple walls for a layered look on steep slopes

The key is to make the wall feel like a natural part of your yard, not just an afterthought.

6. Understand Local Codes and Permits

Depending on your wall's height and location, local building codes may require permits or engineering plans.

At Salas Outdoors, we take care of all compliance issues so you can focus on the fun part—watching your new wall come to life.

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