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Why Retaining Walls Lean: It Is What Goes Behind the Block

Drainage rock, pipe and base compaction decide whether a wall lasts. Learn why one retaining wall quote is cheaper than another.

By Ramiro Perez · · 4 min read

Before and after of a retaining wall build in Northern Nevada

Water pressure is the enemy

Soil behind a wall that holds water gets heavy, and in our winters that water freezes and expands. An undrained wall gets pushed every cycle until it leans.

Why bids differ

Drainage rock, pipe and proper base compaction are invisible once the wall is done, and they are the easiest things to leave out of a low bid.

Repair or rebuild?

Sometimes a leaning wall can be fixed, depending on how far it has moved and whether the base is sound. Ramiro will tell you honestly which is the better spend.

Questions About This Topic

How do I maintain a retaining wall?

Keep the drain outlet clear and avoid redirecting runoff from new landscaping into the back of the wall.

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Why Homeowners Keep Calling Ramiro Back

One contractor for the whole year. Landscape installation and maintenance through the warm months, irrigation that gets fixed the week you report it, and snow removal that keeps your lot open when the storms come. Licensed, insured, and used to working around tenants and business hours.