Retaining Wall Services

Retaining walls serve both structural and aesthetic functions in landscaping and construction. At Aldana Bolton Concrete, we design and build retaining walls throughout Tonica, IL that are engineered to resist soil pressure, prevent erosion, and enhance the layout of outdoor spaces. Whether the goal is to manage elevation on a sloped lot or to create level areas for patios, driveways, or gardens, our retaining wall installations provide long-term performance backed by precision engineering and quality materials.

As a trusted concrete and excavation contractor in LaSalle County, our team has the local experience needed to adapt wall systems to Tonica’s soil types, water flow patterns, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles.

Retaining walls are vertical or near-vertical structures designed to hold back soil and prevent it from sliding or eroding. These walls are commonly used to:

Each wall must be designed based on height, backfill weight, and soil characteristics to ensure long-term durability and safety.

Aldana Bolton Concrete offers several types of retaining wall systems, each selected based on project requirements, aesthetics, and soil conditions in the Tonica area.

Segmental Block Walls

These walls use interlocking concrete blocks and do not require mortar. Designed for structural performance, they are engineered with setback systems that distribute earth pressure. Drainage rock and geogrid reinforcement are often added for taller walls.

Natural Stone Walls

Built with locally sourced limestone or fieldstone, these walls provide a rustic, natural look that blends well with gardens and traditional homes. They are ideal for lower-height retaining systems.

Poured Concrete Walls

For structural applications requiring higher strength, poured concrete walls are formed and reinforced with rebar. These walls are often used for supporting driveways, basements, or commercial structures.

Timber or Landscape Tie Walls

Although less common for long-term structural use, treated timber walls may be used for garden beds or temporary soil retention. These are most often seen in small residential projects.

Each wall type is built to account for lateral load, soil pressure, drainage, and aesthetic goals.

Retaining walls in Tonica must be built with internal drainage systems to reduce hydrostatic pressure behind the wall. We integrate the following elements into every wall:

Perforated Drain Pipe

A French drain system is placed behind the wall to carry water away from the structure.

Drainage Gravel

A layer of clean, angular gravel is installed behind the wall to improve water flow and reduce soil saturation.

Filter Fabric

Landscape fabric is added between soil and gravel to prevent clogging and maintain drainage integrity.

Without adequate drainage, even a well-built wall can fail due to pressure buildup from waterlogged backfill.

Retaining walls over four feet in height or those supporting structures may require engineering approval and building permits in Tonica, IL. Aldana Bolton Concrete works with local engineers and code officials to ensure every wall meets structural standards, especially when it involves:

• Supporting driveways or parking lots
• Proximity to property lines
• Multi-tiered retaining systems
• Walls adjacent to public sidewalks or utilities

We handle the design documentation, inspections, and construction practices needed to stay in compliance with LaSalle County and Tonica municipal guidelines.

Once the structural work is complete, we add finishing touches to integrate the wall with your overall landscape design. This can include:

• Capstones or concrete coping for finished appearance
• Integrated lighting systems or electrical conduit
• Matching steps or pathways to tie into patios and entryways
• Landscape planting around or above the wall for visual softness

We ensure that every retaining wall not only serves a structural purpose but also contributes to the property's curb appeal.