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Plan a wall around the change in level, the drainage behind it and how you will use the space above and below.
Retaining Walls
A retaining wall holds back soil where the ground changes level. It can create a flat area for a patio or lawn, support a driveway or path cut into a slope, or turn one steep bank into terraced beds. A wall has to resist the soil and water pressure behind it, so the base, the drainage and the height matter as much as the stone. Urban Living Landscaping builds retaining walls in Ottawa and surrounding areas.
Wall height, nearby paths or structures and how the space will be used all affect the layout.
Soil conditions, water movement and access for construction also matter. Material choices need to suit the site, alongside any approvals or professional design the project may require.
Step By Step
Plan Your Space
Stacked units designed to lock together with a set-back. Many sizes, textures and colours, with matching caps and steps.
Large natural stone and cut stone give a heavier, natural look. Large pieces need equipment access to the site.
A formed, reinforced wall, usually where a design calls for it. It can be faced with stone.
Changes in ground level, nearby structures and access to the area affect the layout. Steps and paths also need to fit the available space.
Soil conditions, base support and water movement matter to wall design. Base and drainage details depend on the site and the wall system.
Describe your property, the grade changes and what you would like to change.
Retaining Wall Questions
For general planning questions, such as what to send and which photos help, see our planning guide.
A retaining wall holds soil where ground levels change. It can help create level areas or separate spaces at different heights. Its design needs to account for the soil, water and loads around it.
Options include segmental concrete blocks, natural stone and poured concrete. Suitability depends on the wall height, site conditions, drainage needs and the design requirements of the chosen wall system.
The starting point is the difference between existing and proposed ground levels. Slopes, nearby buildings, driveways and other loads also affect the design. These factors help determine whether professional engineering is needed.
Water that builds up behind a wall can increase pressure on it and contribute to movement. Drainage needs to be considered alongside the soil, backfill and a suitable discharge location. The details depend on the site and wall system.
Requirements depend on the wall and its location. Check current permit and approval requirements with the City of Ottawa before work begins. Ask whether engineering, zoning rules or conservation authority requirements apply to your property.
Steps can connect spaces at different levels, and some walls can be designed to include seating. These features affect the layout and loads on the wall. Step dimensions, safe access and any required guards need to be considered as part of the design.
Gather photos of the area and note the grade change, approximate dimensions, access points and any visible water issues. Describe how you want to use the space and whether the work involves a new wall or an existing one. Property surveys or plans can also be useful if available.
It depends on why it is failing. Leaning, bulging or loose blocks often point to drainage or base problems, which need to be addressed rather than only resetting the face. Tell us the wall’s height, material and what you have noticed.
Timing depends on the length, height, access and the time of year, so it is discussed once the scope is clear.
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Tell Us About Your Project
Include the area, its rough size, what you would like to change and how the yard is reached. Photos help: email them to [email protected]. See our planning guide.
Landscape design, patios, interlock, retaining walls, water features, outdoor lighting, and fencing and decks in Ottawa and surrounding areas.
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