Interlocking & Retaining Walls
Driveways, walkways, patios and engineered retaining walls built on a base that survives Ontario freeze-thaw cycles.
Interlock fails from underneath
If the base is thin or badly compacted, the surface will move with the first freeze-thaw cycle no matter how good the stone is. Most of the interlock we are called out to repair was laid on a base that was never going to hold.
Retaining walls are a different arena again. Anything above a certain height needs engineering, drainage behind it and proper backfill, or it leans. We can assist with or pull the permits, and coordinate the inspections each phase requires.
What the work includes- Excavation to depth with a granular base built and compacted in lifts
- Interlock driveways, walkways, patios and pool surrounds
- Segmental retaining walls with drainage and engineered backfill
- Repair and rebuilding of existing block walls
- Small masonry walls, pilasters, flat work and pads, with or without fencing
- Permits pulled and phase inspections coordinated
- Full removal and haul away of existing wood, vinyl or block walls
When a hardscape needs rebuilding rather than repairing
- Pavers that have settled, lifted or rocked underfoot
- A retaining wall that is leaning, bulging or has opened joints
- Water collecting on the patio or running towards the house
- Weeds and ants taking over the joints every summer
- An old block wall that is cracked after years, frost or ground movement
The same spot, photographed twice
Interlock driveway and garage ramp rebuilt
Engineered segmental retaining wall built on a slope
Interlocking & Retaining Walls, answered
Often, yes, and above a certain height structural engineering as well. Permits usually require inspections at each phase of the work. We can assist with the application or pull them for you.
Almost always the base. A proper base is excavated to depth and compacted in lifts before a single paver is laid. If that was skipped, the surface moves every winter no matter what is done on top.
Yes, raising an existing wall is usually a straightforward addition, provided what is already there is sound. We will tell you honestly if it is not.
Want a price on this?
On-site estimates are free, written and itemised, so you can see exactly what you are paying for before anything starts.