We originally called a landscaper because water kept pooling near the back of the house. I assumed it was a drainage issue. Technically, it was but the real culprit was the slope. Rain had nowhere to go except toward the foundation.
The landscaper explained that a properly built retaining wall with drainage behind it would redirect water away and stabilize the soil. It wasn’t the flashy kind of project homeowners brag about, but it made sense.
Watching the process was eye-opening. First came excavation, then gravel, then perforated pipe to carry water away. Only after that did the wall go up. I learned that the strength of a retaining wall doesn’t come from the visible blocks it comes from everything hidden behind them.
Once completed, the wall looked clean and sturdy. We added mulch and plants along the top edge, and you’d never guess it had a serious job working behind the scenes.
The next heavy rain was the real test. Instead of rushing toward the house, water drained smoothly down and out. No more pooling. No more soggy foundation line.
What started as a fix turned into peace of mind. Our home feels better protected, and the backyard looks more finished than ever.
Conclusion:
Sometimes retaining walls aren’t about aesthetics first they’re about preventing damage. Done correctly, they solve drainage problems, protect foundations, and still manage to make a yard look better in the process.
