Retaining walls might look simple, but I’ve learned the hard way they’re not. A couple of Vancouver, Canada yards I helped with really proved that.
The first mistake is skipping proper base preparation. Some homeowners just start stacking blocks or stones and hope for the best. That rarely works. Without a strong base, the wall can lean, shift, or even collapse over time.
Yard before retaining wall installation — uneven soil, old slope.
Another big issue is drainage. Water builds up behind a retaining wall and puts pressure on it. I’ve seen walls crack or bow because no one thought about water flow. Installing gravel and proper drainage pipes behind the wall makes a huge difference.
Mid-construction photo showing gravel, drainage, or blocks being stacked.
Some homeowners choose materials just because they look nice. But in Vancouver’s rainy climate, durability matters more than aesthetics. Thicker blocks, interlocking stones, or treated timber can prevent headaches later.
Finally, I’ve noticed people forget about slope. Even a small change in elevation can mess with the wall if it isn’t accounted for. Taking the time to measure, level, and adjust is worth it.
Finished retaining wall showing slope, stones, and landscaping.
The takeaway? Retaining walls are more than just decorative. Take your time with the base, drainage, and material choice, and you’ll save a lot of stress later. Vancouver yards can go from messy slopes to clean, functional spaces with the right wall.
If you’ve built or fixed a retaining wall recently, I’d love to hear what worked for you.