Retaining Wall Design & Installation

Why Your Des Moines Property Needs a Retaining Wall

A well-designed retaining wall does more than just look good. It solves real problems like soil erosion, drainage issues, and unusable sloped areas. If your yard slopes toward your house or has steep areas that are hard to mow and maintain, a retaining wall can completely change how you use your outdoor space.

Here in Des Moines, our heavy spring rains and freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on sloped properties. Without proper support, soil washes away, plants get exposed, and you end up with erosion problems that only get worse over time. A professionally installed retaining wall holds everything in place, protects your foundation from water runoff, and creates level areas where you can garden, entertain, or just enjoy your yard.

At DEM Des Moines Masonry, we design and build retaining walls that are both beautiful and structurally sound. We understand local soil conditions, drainage requirements, and building codes, so you get a wall that will stand strong for decades.

Types of Retaining Walls We Build

Every property is different, and the right retaining wall depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Here are the most popular options we install in Des Moines:

Natural Stone Walls

Natural stone gives you a timeless, high-end look that fits beautifully with traditional homes and landscaping. We hand-select each stone and carefully fit them together for a wall that looks like it has been there forever. These walls are incredibly durable and age gracefully. The irregular shapes and earth tones create a rustic charm that manufactured materials just cannot match.

Segmental Block Walls

Segmental concrete blocks are engineered specifically for retaining walls. They interlock without mortar, making them strong, flexible, and easy to install. These blocks come in a variety of colors, textures, and sizes, so you can get the look of natural stone at a more affordable price. They are perfect for curved walls and work great in tight spaces.

Brick Retaining Walls

If you have a brick home or want a more formal, classic appearance, a brick retaining wall might be the right choice. We can match your existing brick or choose a complementary color and style. Brick walls offer excellent durability and can be designed with decorative caps and stepped designs for added visual interest.

Poured Concrete Walls

For taller walls or areas with significant soil pressure, poured concrete provides maximum strength. We can texture, stamp, or stain concrete to mimic natural stone, brick, or other materials. These walls are built to handle the toughest conditions and can support multiple tiers for dramatic elevation changes.

What Goes Into Designing Your Retaining Wall

Building a retaining wall is not just about stacking stone or block. It is an engineered structure that needs proper planning to work correctly and last for years. Here is what we consider during the design phase.

• •Wall height and length: Taller walls need stronger foundations and reinforcement. In Des Moines, walls over 4 feet typically require permits and engineering.
• •Soil type and conditions: Clay-heavy Iowa soil behaves differently than sandy or rocky soil. We test your soil to design the right foundation and drainage system.
• •Drainage: Water buildup behind a retaining wall creates pressure that can cause failure. We install proper drainage with gravel backfill and weep holes or drainage pipes.
• •Load bearing needs: Will the wall support a driveway, patio, or other heavy features? That changes how we engineer and build it.
• •Aesthetic integration: We design walls that complement your home's architecture and your landscaping plans, whether you want modern, rustic, or traditional styling.

We handle all the technical details so you do not have to worry about whether your wall will hold up. We also coordinate with local building departments to ensure everything meets code requirements for Des Moines and surrounding areas.

Benefits of Professional Retaining Wall Installation

A professionally installed retaining wall transforms your property in ways that go beyond just aesthetics. Here is what you can expect when you work with us.

Stop Soil Erosion

Without retaining walls, heavy rains wash away topsoil, expose plant roots, and create gullies in your yard. A well-built wall holds soil in place and prevents erosion damage that takes years to recover from.

Increase Usable Space

Steep slopes are hard to use and maintain. Retaining walls create level terraces where you can add gardens, patios, play areas, or outdoor living spaces. You will be amazed at how much more functional your yard becomes. Speaking of patios, check out our custom stone and paver patios to complete your outdoor living area.

Protect Your Foundation

Water runoff from slopes can pool around your foundation, leading to basement leaks, cracks, and structural issues. Retaining walls redirect water away from your home and control drainage, protecting one of your biggest investments.

Boost Property Value

Well-designed hardscaping increases curb appeal and property value. Buyers appreciate functional outdoor spaces and professional landscaping features. A quality retaining wall is an investment that pays off when it is time to sell.

Frequently Asked Questions