In the Fraser Valley, sloped terrain, heavy rainfall, and variable soil conditions make retaining walls more than just a landscaping feature—they’re a critical part of property protection. When designed and built correctly, retaining walls prevent erosion, manage drainage, and stabilize land around homes, commercial sites, and strata properties. When built poorly, they can fail, shift, or collapse causing costly damage and safety risks.
What Is a Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is a structural system designed to hold back soil and manage changes in elevation. Retaining walls are commonly used to:
- Stabilize slopes and prevent soil movement
- Protect foundations and driveways
- Create usable flat space on sloped properties
- Control surface water and drainage
- Improve site safety and accessibility
In regions like Chilliwack and across the Fraser Valley, retaining walls must withstand hydrostatic pressure, freeze–thaw cycles, and saturated soils. Especially during a year like this where we get above average rain fall that’s caused flooding across the lower mainland.
Common Types of Retaining Walls
Gravity Retaining Walls
These rely on their own weight to resist soil pressure. Typically built using concrete blocks or natural stone, gravity walls are suitable for shorter walls and landscaping applications.
Segmental Retaining Walls (SRW)
SRWs use interlocking concrete blocks and geogrid reinforcement. They’re popular for residential and commercial sites due to their durability, flexibility, and clean appearance.
Cantilevered Concrete Walls
These reinforced concrete walls use footing and steel reinforcement to handle higher loads. They’re often used for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects.
Timber Retaining Walls
While visually appealing, timber walls have a shorter lifespan and are less resistant to moisture, making them less ideal for long-term Fraser Valley conditions.
Why Drainage Is the Most Important Factor
Most retaining wall failures are caused by poor drainage, not structural materials. Without proper drainage, water builds up behind the wall, increasing pressure and leading to cracking, leaning, or collapse.
Effective retaining walls include:
- Drainage gravel backfill
- Perforated drain pipe (weep system)
- Proper slope and water discharge points
- Filter fabric to prevent soil migration
At FVC, drainage is never an afterthought; it’s built into every retaining wall design.
Retaining Walls and Local Conditions in the Fraser Valley
The Fraser Valley experiences:
- Heavy rainfall
- Clay and mixed soil types
- Freeze–thaw cycles
- Sloped residential and commercial lots
These conditions require site-specific engineering, not one-size-fits-all solutions. Wall height, soil type, surcharge loads (like driveways or buildings), and water flow all impact design decisions.
Signs Your Retaining Wall Needs Attention
Property owners should watch for:
- Cracks or bulging sections
- Leaning or shifting
- Poor drainage or pooling water
- Soil erosion near the wall
- Loose or displaced blocks
Early intervention can prevent full wall failure and reduce repair costs.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Improperly built retaining walls often fail within a few seasons. Professional installation ensures:
- Proper excavation and base preparation
- Correct material selection
- Compliance with local building codes
- Long-term structural integrity
- Improved safety and property value
Many retaining walls over a certain height also require engineering approval and permits, another reason to work with experienced contractors.
Retaining Wall Solutions by Fraser Valley Contracting
FVC provides end-to-end retaining wall services, including:
- Site evaluation and design consultation
- Engineered retaining wall systems
- Drainage and erosion control
- Repairs and wall replacements
- Residential, strata, and commercial projects
We build retaining walls designed for Fraser Valley terrain and weather, not just appearance.
Build It Right the First Time
A retaining wall is a long-term investment in your property’s safety and stability. Cutting corners during construction often leads to costly repairs later.
Partner with Fraser Valley Contracting for retaining walls that are engineered, durable, and built to perform in Fraser Valley conditions.
