5 Signs Your Calgary Property Needs a Retaining Wall (And Which Type to Choose)
Calgary, Canada - October 17, 2025 / Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes /
Calgary, AB – Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes, a trusted landscaping company with over two decades of experience, is helping homeowners recognize the key signs that their properties may need retaining walls. By offering tailored solutions such as brick walls, wood retaining walls, and boulder walls, the company provides both stability and style for outdoor spaces.
Sign 1 – Soil Erosion on Sloped Areas
One of the first signs that a yard needs support is visible soil erosion. Slopes without reinforcement often wash away during rainfall or snowmelt, leading to bare patches and unstable garden beds. This not only alters the yard’s appearance but can also weaken surrounding hardscape features like paths or driveways.
Best Retaining Wall Options for Erosion Control
Boulder Walls: These large, natural stones provide durable protection for steep slopes. Their rugged look adds character while preventing soil from sliding downhill.
Wood Retaining Walls: For smaller slopes, wood provides an affordable and natural-looking solution. These walls work well for garden beds and complement patios or walkways.
Sign 2 – Poor Drainage or Water Pooling
Excess water is another warning sign. Pooling in gardens or low areas can damage soil, harm plants, and create unusable muddy spaces. Over time, poor drainage also weakens the foundations of nearby hardscape.
Retaining Wall Solutions for Drainage Issues
Brick Walls: Designed with drainage systems like weep holes and gravel backfill, brick walls allow water to pass through instead of building pressure behind them. They offer both strength and a neat, timeless appearance.
Concrete Block Walls: Effective for large problem areas, these walls manage runoff while providing flexibility in design. They are ideal for Calgary yards with heavy rainfall or clay soil.
Sign 3 – Limited Usable Yard Space
Uneven terrain often limits how much of a property can be enjoyed. Sloped land makes it difficult to install patios, gardens, or play areas. Retaining walls turn these unusable spaces into flat terraces that expand outdoor living options.
Retaining Wall Choices for Terracing
Wood Retaining Walls: A cost-effective option, it follows the natural contours of the land, creating inviting terraces for plants, seating, or small gardens.
Manufactured Stone Walls: These offer strength and design flexibility. With a variety of textures and colours available, they create polished, level spaces that blend seamlessly with existing landscaping.
Sign 4 – Cracking or Shifting Hardscapes
If patios, driveways, or walkways begin to crack or shift, the cause is often unstable soil beneath. Without support, soil movement from water or freeze-thaw cycles can damage these structures and create safety hazards.
Structural Retaining Wall Options
Allan Block or Roman Pisa Walls: These modular, stackable blocks provide strong support and can be built in straight or curved designs to fit the yard.
Boulder Walls: Natural stone boulders handle heavy soil loads, making them ideal for stabilizing large areas. They add a rugged, natural charm while keeping hardscape levels.
Sign 5 – Desire to Enhance Property Appearance
Retaining walls are not only functional. They are also design elements that enhance curb appeal. A well-placed wall can highlight garden beds, frame entryways, or add depth to a flat yard.
Design Options for Aesthetic Appeal
Brick Walls: Their clean lines and classic style bring elegance and order to landscapes. They pair beautifully with lighting, stairs, or flower beds.
Boulder Walls: With their organic shapes and textures, boulder walls create a natural connection between the property and its surroundings.
Why Choose Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes
With over 20 years of hands-on experience, Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes specializes in designing and building retaining walls, including brick walls, wood retaining walls, and boulder walls. Each wall is tailored to the property’s slope, soil type, and design preferences, ensuring both functionality and style.
The company is licensed, insured, and bonded, offering homeowners peace of mind with every project. All retaining walls are backed by a 2-year warranty, reinforcing the company’s commitment to durability and customer satisfaction.
Contact for a Retaining Wall Estimate Today
Homeowners in Calgary who notice soil erosion, drainage issues, or shifting hardscapes can benefit from a professional retaining wall solution. Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes provides free estimates and expert recommendations to transform challenging terrain into stable, attractive outdoor spaces. Contact Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes today at (403) 301-3300 or email service@assiniboine.com.

Contact Information:
Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes
402 Garrison Square SW, Calgary, AB T2T 6B4
Calgary, AB T2T 6B4
Canada
Brandon Peterson
+1 403-301-3300
https://assiniboine.com/
Original Source: https://assiniboine.com/5-signs-your-calgary-property-needs-a-retaining-wall-and-which-type-to-choose/