RETAINING WALL CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

Reasons of Why Constructing a New Retaining Wall

At Creative Landscape by Design, we build retaining walls that deliver both structural performance and visual appeal. Our retaining wall construction solutions are designed to manage elevation changes, prevent soil erosion, and improve drainage by stabilizing sloped or uneven terrain. By doing so, we help transform previously unused areas into functional, usable spaces for patios, walkways, planting beds, and lawn areas. From a design standpoint, our retaining walls add definition, depth, and lasting curb appeal, enhancing the overall landscape while increasing the long-term value and usability of your property.

Phases of Constructing a New Retaining Wall Project

Phase I – Schedule a Consultation

To begin your retaining wall project, contact Creative Landscape by Design by clicking one of the “Schedule a Consultation” buttons located throughout our website. Complete the required information, and a member of our team will reach out to schedule an on-site consultation.

Phase II – On-Site Consultation

One of our sales representatives, often the owner, bringing over 30 years of hands-on experience, will meet with you at your property. During this visit, we’ll evaluate grade changes, drainage conditions, and soil composition while discussing wall height, layout, material options, budget, and the overall goals of your retaining wall project.

Phase III – Project Pricing

Following the on-site consultation, Creative Landscape by Design will provide detailed pricing based on wall height, length, material selection, site conditions, drainage requirements, and any necessary reinforcement such as geogrid. For retaining walls over 4 feet in height, additional costs for engineered drawings and permits may apply, ensuring your wall meets all structural and safety requirements.

Phase IV – Scheduling & Obtaining Permits

Once the required deposit is received, your retaining wall project will be placed on our installation schedule. Creative Landscape by Design will handle coordinating the timeline and securing any necessary permits, as well as obtaining engineered drawings when required. This ensures your project meets all local regulations and structural standards before construction begins.

Phase V – Construction Process

Our skilled team will prepare the site and begin construction following industry best practices. This includes proper excavation, base preparation, drainage installation, and reinforcement when necessary. Each retaining wall is built to precise specifications to ensure long-term stability, prevent settling or movement, and withstand Northeast Ohio’s freeze-thaw conditions. Attention to detail during construction is critical for both safety and aesthetics, ensuring your retaining wall performs beautifully for years to come.

Phase VI – Project Completion & Final Walkthrough

Upon completion of your retaining wall installation, a representative from Creative Landscape by Design will walk the project with you to ensure all details meet your expectations. During the final walkthrough, we review wall alignment, drainage performance, and overall craftsmanship, and discuss future enhancements such as additional wall phases, steps, lighting, or landscape integration.

Picking the Right Wall Materials for Your Project

Versa-Lok & Pisa 2 Retaining Wall Systems

Creative Landscape by Design installs both Versa-Lok and Pisa 2 retaining wall systems to provide durable, long-lasting solutions for residential and commercial landscapes. Both systems offer engineered strength, design flexibility, and professional finishes, making them ideal for a wide range of wall heights, curves, and functional applications.

Versa-Lok Advantages

  •  Each block weighs 88 lbs. for superior stability

  • Interlocking design ensures long-term structural integrity

  •  Ideal for taller walls with geogrid reinforcement

  •  Consistent sizing delivers precise alignment and

    professional finish

  • Available in multiple colors, textures, and cap styles

Pisa 2 Advantages

  • Each block weighs 45 lbs. for easier handling and faster I

    installation

  • Allows tighter radius curves for flexible layouts

  • Compatible with geogrid for walls over 4 feet

  • Tapered design ensures smooth transitions and clean lines

  • Variety of colors textures, and cap options

Natural Boulders & Barn Stone Retaining Walls

Creative Landscape by Design provides Natural Boulders and Barn Stone retaining walls for homeowners and businesses throughout Northeast Ohio. These stone walls combine durability and timeless beauty, making them ideal for managing slopes, preventing erosion, and transforming underutilized outdoor spaces into functional, visually striking areas. Whether you want a rugged, natural look with boulders or a classic, hand-laid appearance with barn stone, our team ensures your wall is both strong and aesthetically appealing.

Barn Stone Advantages

  • Classic, rustic appearance for short to medium-height walls

  • Can be dry-stacked or mortared for custom looks

  • Labor costs often lower due to faster installation compared to small modular blocks

  • Tight joints create clean lines while maintaining natural stone character

  • Highly durable and weather-resistant for Northeast Ohio conditions

Natural Boulders Advantages

  • Massive, naturally shaped stones provide exceptional strength

  • Ideal for larger grade changes and erosion control

  • Labor costs often lower due to faster installation with heavy equipment

  • Blends seamlessly into natural landscapes

  • Extremely durable against freeze-thaw cycles and heavy weather

Country Stone or Brussels Block for Knee Walls

A knee wall is a low, non-structural landscape wall typically used to define spaces, create subtle elevation changes, and add visual structure to outdoor areas. Unlike taller retaining walls, knee walls are not designed to hold back significant soil pressure but instead serve a functional and decorative purpose. Commonly used as seating walls, landscape borders, or transitions along patios and walkways, knee walls enhance usability while providing a finished, cohesive look to the landscape design.

Advantages of Using Country Stone or Brussels Block for Knee Walls

  • Perfect for knee walls, seating walls, and landscape borders

  • Tight radius curves possible for custom designs

  • Lightweight blocks allow faster, lower-labor installation

  • Clean, decorative appearance with multiple colors and textures

  • Durable and engineered for freeze-thaw cycles in Northeast Ohio

  • Ideal for aesthetic definition and usability without major structural load

Pillars & Under-Cap Lighting

Pillars with under-cap lighting add both style and function to your outdoor spaces. At Creative Landscape by Design, we design and install decorative pillars that highlight walkways, driveways, and retaining walls, while integrated under-cap lighting provides subtle, elegant illumination. This combination enhances safety, extends usability into the evening, and adds a sophisticated visual touch to your landscape.

Benefits of Pillars & Under-Cap Lighting

  • Adds elegant visual appeal to retaining walls, walkways, and driveways

  • Provides subtle illumination for safety and nighttime usability

  • Highlights landscape features and architectural elements

  • Creates a welcoming ambiance for outdoor spaces

  • Enhances property value with functional, decorative lighting

Man-Made Hillside Steps

Creative Landscape by Design designs and installs man-made hillside steps to safely and efficiently navigate slopes while enhancing your landscape. These steps make previously unusable or steep areas functional, creating pathways that are both practical and visually appealing. Built to blend seamlessly with natural terrain, they provide a natural, integrated look that complements your yard or garden while helping prevent erosion.

Benefits of Man-Made Hillside Steps

  • Provides safe and stable access on sloped terrain

  • Makes steep or uneven areas functional and usable

  • Helps prevent soil erosion and protect landscaping

  • Customizable design with a natural, integrated appearance

  • Can be built with a variety of materials, including natural stone, modular blocks, or timber

  • Enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space

Why Choose Creative Landscape by Design for Your Retaining Wall Project?

When it comes to building retaining walls in Mahoning County, Trumbull County, Columbiana County, and surrounding areas, Creative Landscape by Design stands out for experience, quality, and reliability. With over 30 years of hands-on expertise, we combine precision engineering, top-quality materials, and industry best practices to deliver retaining walls that are both structurally sound and visually stunning. From design and permits to construction and final walkthrough, we manage every step of the process to ensure your project meets local regulations, withstands Northeast Ohio’s weather, and enhances the usability and beauty of your property. Trust us to transform your sloped or uneven spaces into functional, long-lasting outdoor areas that add value and curb appeal to your home or business.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
  • Berlin center

  • Howland

  • Niles

  • Mineral Ridge

  • Lordstown

  • McDonald

  • Liberty

  • Struthers

  • BOARDMAN

  • CANFIELD

  • AUSTINTOWN

  • POLAND

  • NORTH JACKSON

  • COLUMBIANA

  • SALEM

  • LAKE MILTON

  • WARREN

  • CORTLAND

  • GIRARD

  • HUBBARD

  • SPRINGFIELD

  • LOWELLVILLE

  • SURROUNDING AREAS OF YOUNGSTOWN

RETAINING WALL GALLARY