Halifax Retaining Wall Pros

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started & Process

How do I start a retaining wall project with your team?

Share photos, approximate height/length, and site access notes via our contact form. We’ll assess engineering triggers, drainage, and access, then schedule a site visit. After measuring and confirming constraints, we provide a scope, timeline, and a fixed or milestone-based quote. We coordinate engineering and permits where required and manage build start once approvals land.

What areas of HRM do you serve?

We build across Halifax Peninsula, Dartmouth, Bedford, Sackville, Cole Harbour, Hammonds Plains, Timberlea, Tantallon, and Fall River. If you’re just outside HRM, ask—we occasionally travel for complex projects. Coastal sites, sloped yards, and tight-access backyards are common for us.

Do you supply materials to the public or other contractors?

No. We’re a contractor and handle turnkey build: design coordination, engineering, permits, excavation, base/drainage, wall construction, backfill, and finish details. This ensures quality control and warranty coverage.

What’s your typical lead time?

After approvals, typical build windows are 2–6 weeks, depending on season, engineering complexity, and weather. We’ll identify any critical path items—permits, utility locates, and material procurement—to lock a realistic start date.

Design, Engineering & Permits (HRM context)

When is engineering required for a retaining wall in HRM?

Engineering is typically required when walls exceed certain heights, support driveways/structures (surcharge loads), are near property lines, or need guardrails. Local requirements vary—confirm with HRM/AHJ. We coordinate with a licensed engineer to produce stamped drawings and construction specs.

Who handles the permit process?

We can assist with drawings, engineer coordination, and submission packages. You can file, or we can support end-to-end as an add-on service. Permit scope depends on wall height, proximity to services, and site sensitivity.

How close can a wall be to a property line?

Clearances depend on height, excavation zone, and municipal rules. Setbacks, easements, and neighbour considerations apply. We’ll survey constraints, design reinforcement lengths (geogrid) within property lines, and propose alternatives if space is tight. Confirm with HRM/AHJ.

Do you provide stamped drawings?

Yes—via our partner engineers. They evaluate soil, loads, drainage, and reinforcement, then issue stamped plans for permitting and construction.

Materials & Systems —pros/cons

(SRW blocks, gabion, poured concrete, timber, natural stone, )

Which retaining wall system is best for Halifax’s coastal climate?

Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) concrete blocks are popular for durability, modularity, and drainage. Poured concrete offers monolithic strength but needs careful drainage/expansion joints. Natural stone excels aesthetically; gabions manage drainage well; timber is budget-friendly but shorter-lived. We’ll match system to height, loads, and look.

Are SRW block walls strong enough for driveways?

Yes—when engineered with proper base, drainage, and geogrid reinforcement for surcharge loads. Block choice, embedment, geogrid lengths, and compaction are critical.

When is poured concrete preferable?

Poured concrete suits tight footprints, thin profiles, or when integrated with stairs/railings. It requires robust drainage, waterproofing on the soil side, and control/expansion joints to manage cracking. Finish options include architectural form liners or coatings.

Do you build natural stone or gabion walls?

Yes. Natural stone offers a timeless look; gabions handle drainage and can be cost-effective on certain sites. Both still need engineered base, geotextile separation, and careful backfill.

Drainage, Base, and Geogrid Reinforcement

Why is drainage so important?

Water pressure is the top cause of wall movement. We install a free-draining base, perforated pipe to daylight or a sump, clean stone backfill, and filter fabric to prevent fines migration. Proper grading directs surface water away.

What base materials do you use?

Typically compacted, well-graded aggregate (e.g., 19mm crusher run) over undisturbed subgrade or engineered fill, with frost-depth embed where required. Base thickness depends on wall height, soil, and loads.

What is geogrid and when is it needed?

Geogrid is a high-strength synthetic mesh that anchors soil behind the wall, increasing stability. Engineers specify grid strength, spacing, and embed length based on height and surcharge loads.

Do you include weep holes?

For poured walls, yes where appropriate. SRW walls typically drain through the stone infill and drainage pipe. We ensure a path to daylight and protect with geotextile to avoid clogging.

Walls Near Driveways, Stairs, Fences & Property Lines

Can a wall support a driveway or parking pad?

Yes—when designed for surcharge loads. Expect thicker base, longer geogrid, stronger blocks or poured concrete, and careful drainage. Guardrails or barriers may be required near drop-offs.

How do you integrate stairs or railings?

We can integrate precast or cast-in-place steps, landings, and guardrails that meet code. Anchors and footings are coordinated so they don’t compromise wall drainage or geogrid.

What about fences on top of walls?

Fence posts typically require separate footings/anchors beyond the geogrid zone or engineered sleeves through the wall. Loads must be considered in design.

How close can I build to my neighbour?

Setbacks and excavation influence how close you can work. We design to stay within property lines and minimize impact; confirm with HRM/AHJ. Neighbour communication is part of our process.

Slopes, Terracing & Yard Redevelopment

Is terracing better than one tall wall?

Often yes. Multiple lower terraces can reduce engineering demands, improve drainage, and create usable garden spaces. Spacing, stair connections, and railing needs must be planned.

Can you reclaim a steep backyard?

Yes. We combine grading, retaining tiers, and steps/landings to create flat zones for play or patios, always addressing water flow.

Do terraced walls still need engineering?

Frequently—depending on heights, spacing, and loads. Each tier’s stability and global slope stability should be considered.

Will terracing increase maintenance?

Not necessarily. With proper drainage, planting, and access, terraces are low-maintenance and improve stormwater management.

Retaining Wall Costs & Budgeting

What drives the cost of a retaining wall in HRM?

Key drivers: height/length, system type (SRW vs poured vs stone), engineering and permits, site access/equipment, excavation volume/haul-out, drainage components, geogrid layers/lengths, finishes (caps/steps/railings), and restoration (sod, paving). Utilities and tight access add time.

How do you quote—fixed or time & materials?

We prefer fixed-scope pricing with clear inclusions/exclusions once design is settled. Unknowns (buried debris, utilities) are handled via allowances or unit rates.

Can you phase the project?

Yes—design for the full vision, then build in stages (e.g., primary wall this season, stairs and railings next). We plan for seamless future tie-ins.

Do you offer financing?

Not currently. We structure progress payments aligned with milestones (mobilization, base complete, wall to mid-height, practical completion).

Construction Timeline, Access & Site Prep (utilities, spoil removal)

How long does construction take?

Small residential walls often build in 1–3 weeks after approvals; larger or engineered walls can take longer. Weather, inspections, and access affect schedule. We issue a build plan before mobilization.

What if access is tight?

We use compact equipment, hand-carry options, and staged deliveries. Tight access may require additional labour/time and alternative spoil routes.

Who locates utilities?

We coordinate public utility locates and ask you to flag private lines (irrigation, lighting). Unexpected utilities may shift layout.

How do you handle excavated spoil?

We load out and dispose at approved facilities, or reuse suitable fill on site if engineered design permits. Driveway and lawn protection are included in our plan.

Winter, Weather & Coastal Considerations

(freeze–thaw, salt, snow load)

Can you build in winter?

Yes, with protection measures—frost control, heated blankets, and material handling adjustments. Some tasks (planting/paving) may be deferred. Timelines depend on conditions.

How do you handle freeze–thaw?

We design base depths, embedment, and drainage to reduce heave risk. Clean stone, proper compaction, and geotextiles prevent fines migration.

Is salt exposure a problem?

Coastal salt can accelerate deterioration. We specify durable systems, sealants/coatings where suitable, and details that shed water. Stainless/galvanized hardware used as needed.

What about snow loads and plowing?

Near driveways, we consider snow storage and impact from equipment. Guardrails, curbs, or bollards may be recommended.

Safety, Code, and Neighbour/Strata Considerations

Do I need a guardrail?

Guardrails are typically required when drops exceed threshold heights or near walkways/driveways—confirm with AHJ. We integrate rails without compromising drainage or geogrid.

How do you minimize impact on neighbours?

We set working hours, protect property, control dust/noise, and coordinate access. For shared boundaries, we recommend alignment meetings prior to work.

Are strata approvals needed?

Many townhomes/condos require strata sign-off. We can prepare drawings/scope and attend meetings if requested.

What inspections occur during construction?

Engineer or municipal inspections may verify base, reinforcement, and final. We document compaction and material specs for records.

Repairs, Rebuilds & Failures

(wall movement, bulging, leaning)

Can you repair a leaning or bulging wall?

Sometimes. Minor issues may be stabilized with drainage fixes; significant movement often requires partial or full rebuild with reinforcement. We’ll investigate causes first.

What causes most failures?

Poor drainage, inadequate base/compaction, lack of geogrid, and unaccounted surcharge loads. We design to address these root causes—not just symptoms.

Can you rebuild using existing blocks?

Often yes, if blocks are intact and meet spec. We replace compromised units and rebuild with proper base, drainage, and geogrid.

Do you handle emergency repairs?

We do not offer after-hours emergency service. We can prioritize unsafe conditions during business hours and provide temporary shoring where practical.

Aesthetics & Add-Ons

(caps, lighting, railings, steps, planting)

What finish options are available?

Choices include textured or smooth block faces, natural stone veneers, coloured caps, and integrated steps. Low-voltage lighting, railings, and planters add function. We’ll align finishes with your home and neighbourhood.

Can you add landscape lighting?

Yes—conduits and fixtures can be planned during build to protect wiring and maintain drainage. We coordinate with your electrician if required.

Do you build steps and landings into the wall?

We can integrate steps (precast or cast-in-place) with proper footings and drainage. Tread/riser proportions and handrails follow code—confirm with AHJ.

Will the wall support a fence or privacy screen?

Yes—when engineered for wind load and post foundations. We plan post locations to avoid weakening the wall structure.

Commercial & Multi-Unit Considerations

Do you work on commercial or multi-unit sites?

Yes—townhomes, apartments, and light commercial. Expect more documentation, safety requirements, and coordination with other trades.

Can you meet construction schedules with other trades?

We sequence excavation, base, wall lifts, and inspections to align with site milestones. Regular coordination meetings keep progress on track.

Do you provide maintenance plans for strata sites?

Yes—seasonal drainage checks, vegetation management guidance, and inspection reports.

How do you handle site safety?

We provide fencing, signage, and traffic/pedestrian control as needed, plus daily toolbox talks for crews.

Maintenance & Care

(inspections, cleaning, drainage checks)

What maintenance does a retaining wall need?

Seasonal checks: clear drains/weep holes, inspect for settlement or cracking, remove vegetation that roots into joints, and maintain grading to shed water. Avoid de-icing salts directly on faces.

How do I keep plants from damaging the wall?

Use planters or shallow-root species near faces; keep deep-rooted trees/shrubs set back. Install root barriers where appropriate.

Can pressure washing damage the wall?

Use low pressure, wide fan tips, and mild cleaners. High pressure can erode joints or surface. Rinse thoroughly and avoid directing water into backfill.

What signs mean I should call for inspection?

New cracks, bulges, blocked drains, ponding water, or movement at caps/steps. Early intervention is cheaper than rebuilds.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

(water behind wall, weep holes, icing)

My wall is weeping water—normal or a problem?

Some weeping is normal after rain/snowmelt. Continuous flow, staining, or freeze-thaw heaving suggests drainage issues. We can camera-inspect and retrofit drainage where feasible.

The wall face has white powder (efflorescence). What now?

Efflorescence is mineral salts moving to the surface; it’s mainly cosmetic. Gentle cleaning and time usually reduce it. Persistent issues may indicate water management problems.

Ice builds up at the base—how do we fix it?

Improve surface grading, ensure downspouts discharge away, and verify drain outlets are open. We can add swales or heat-trace critical outlets if warranted.

My wall leans slightly—do I need a rebuild?

Not always. We evaluate movement history, drainage, and loads. Stabilization or partial rebuild may be enough if caught early.

The Next Step

Ready to book your free, no obligation quote? Give us a call at 902-706-8145 or fill in our online contact form and we'll get back to you asap!