Nanaimo Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are what we do. We offer a complete line of options ranging from natural rock to concrete blocks to timber. Don't know what you need?  We've got the know-how to suggest the best retaining wall product for your particular installation.

Retaining walls should not be taken lightly; the security of your property and that of your neighbours is at stake when you install a land retention solution. There are many items to consider when installing a retaining wall, the most important being drainage. Hydrostatic pressure accumulating behind your wall is a major cause of wall failure.   

A retaining wall is required to elevate and plateau your property, while giving it shape and creating more usable space. Currently, R&M has been replacing a lot of rotten or degrading walls. Updating your old walls with new technology and good drainage will greatly extend stability and add value to your property.

Using a wide variety of products, and sticking to the engineered installation practices, means that you will receive the right retaining wall for your needs with long lasting durability.  Land retention is an expensive undertaking. We want to ensure that you get the most for your money.

RETAINING WALL OPTIONS

ROCK

Rock retaining walls

Blasted rock retaining walls are the most natural land retention solution that we offer. Blasted rock differs from boulder retaining walls in that the rock is quarried, giving it pronounced edges that lend stability and safety.

On top of these great features, dry stacked rock retaining walls inhibit passive drainage through the cracks of the wall rock, which alleviates pressure from behind the retaining wall. Last but not least, natural stone and its installation method often leads to a very competitive price point.

Pros & Cons

Perfect for job-sites with excellent access and owners looking for that natural, West Coast look.

+ Durability
+ Sustainability
+ Natural look
+ Low price point
+ Compatible with MSE

 - Requires large scale excavation
- Requires large dumping area
- Requires great access for equipment and materials
- Best used for straight lines with square corners

CONCRETE

Large concrete block walls

These concrete wall blocks are excellent for large scale retaining wall installations. We prefer using them because they are stable, bullet proof products, manufactured locally. The blocks come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and textures that help to create a unique, visually appealing installation.

Pros and Cons

Great for properties with excellent access and owners who are looking for very long term and stable installations.

+ Durability
+ Compatible with MSE
+ Variety of textures & finishes
+ Quick assembly

- Requires large scale excavation
- Requires crane or large equipment access
- Industrial look

Small Concrete Block walls

Although small modular blocks come in a wide variety of block shapes and textures, the most common varieties that you will see are the "Juniors" and "Jumbos". Production companies like Allan Block, Valley Stone, and Keystone are a popular product for smaller land retention solutions. However, make no mistake that these highly engineered blocks are capable of serious retention when they are augmented with geogrid stabilizers.

Another huge bonus to modular block products is their ability to create compact curves for a more organic shaped landscape.

Pros & Cons

A great long lasting choice usable in nearly all landscape scenarios.

+ Long lasting
+ Variety in face textures and colours
+ Great for curved walls
+ Limited access job sites
+ Compatible with MSE
+ Versatility - usable as steps, planters etc...
+ Competitive pricing

 - The smallest ground movement from tree roots or erosion will cause this product to look misaligned
- Limited height in gravity wall application
 

WOOD

Timber retaining walls

Timber has and always will be a viable product for land retention. Our timber walls are always constructed with appropriate horizontal supports (aka "dead men"), double dip galvanized spiral spikes and perimeter drainage, making them worry free and long lasting. The proper installation of a pressure treated timber wall should offer up to a 30 year lifespan.

Pros & Cons

+ Low cost
+ Good for difficult footing locations
+ Minimum access sites
+ Rustic appearance

- Does not last as long as other options

MSE (MECHANICALLY STABILIZED EARTH)

Geogrid is a widely used product in slope stability, land retention and soil erosion. It is the major component of an MSE application.

Most geogrids are virgin synthetic woven mats that are built into the the bank of a sloped surface. The idea here is to stabilize the earth far beyond the capabilities of a gravity wall alone. This concept is suitable for very large vertical retaining walls, applications where excess weight will be applied on top of walls, or when increased stability is desired.

Something to consider when using MSE is that it will require more excavation and labour due to its construction process.

Guidelines:

City of Nanaimo:

https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/retainingwallguideline.pdf