Tiered block retaining wall with a set of steps cut into it, above bare red clay ground and a fenced pool deck.

Retaining Walls

Jessamine Landscaping builds retaining walls across Anderson and the Upstate, in boulder or segmental retaining wall (SRW) blocks. A retaining wall holds best when it sits on a strong foundation and has proper drainage behind it, so that we can mitigate hydrostatic pressure. We build both into every wall. Call us and we'll look at your slope.

Call 864-633-4524 for a Free Estimate

How much does a retaining wall cost in Anderson and the Upstate?

The price follows the length and height of the wall, boulder or block, how much excavation is needed, whether it needs to be engineered, and access. A taller wall means more footing, structural elements such as geogrid, better drainage measures and engineering. Estimates are free, and you get the number after we see the yard.

Rather not call? Submit a form and tell us about the job.

Why Call Jessamine for Retaining Walls

Decades of experience. We bring decades of experience to every wall, boulder or block.
Strong foundations. Every wall starts with a strong foundation, because a wall is only as steady as what it sits on.
Proper drainage. Drainage is built behind the wall, so water has a way out.
Built to last. Every wall gets its foundation and drainage before the first block or boulder goes up.

Why do retaining walls lean and fail?

No drainage behind it. Water builds up behind the wall and pushes until it leans or bulges. This is called hydrostatic pressure, the number one leading cause of structural failures. We build drainage behind every wall, such as weep holes and foundation drains.
No real foundation. A wall is only as steady as what it sits on, and a thin footing moves. We start every wall with a strong foundation. As a rule of thumb, always bury the first course.
Built too tall for the method. Not every block or sized boulder can be rated for the job, it is important to check manufacturer guidelines and hire an engineer when needed. Jessamine Landscaping can bring in an engineer to help bring your wall to life.

Recent Retaining Walls Work

Two-tier block retaining wall with block steps up the middle, above bare red clay and below an iron pool fence.

Curved block retaining wall with a paver walkway along its base, large boulders on the mulched slope above and new sod in the middle.

Two tiers of stacked boulders holding up a driveway beside a green house, with sod rolled out below and a drain pipe at the base.

Stacked boulder wall at the foot of a mulched slope, with four gray chairs and a stone seat on gravel in front of a dark house.

Block retaining wall running along the side of a white house, holding up a planted bed above a grass slope.

Low block wall with a gravel strip edging a new concrete driveway, with a pine straw bed and young shrubs behind it.

Boulder retaining wall with wide stone steps cut through the middle, beside a green house and an air conditioner.

Long block retaining wall holding back a grass slope beside a new wooden privacy fence.

Stacked boulder wall along the edge of a freshly sodded yard, with a black pickup parked beyond it.

Retaining Walls Reviews

5.0 from over 130 Google reviews.

★★★★★

"Lex and his crew did an outstanding job building a retaining wall along one side of our house. We now have so much more usable yard space by making that all level. They were very professional, respectful, and hard working. We would HIGHLY recommend them for any of your landscaping needs!"

Janet M.

Retaining Walls, Google review

★★★★★

"Jessamine Landscaping did an amazing job with our boulder wall and fire pit. Can’t go wrong with this company. Thanks Lex."

Halie C.

Retaining Walls, Google review

How do I get started?

You call or send the form. Tell us about what you would like accomplished, approximate length and height of wall, type of wall. Don't sweat it if you don't know exactly what you want or the measurements, that's why we're here to help.
We come and look at the site, we assess the grade, access, and whether any engineering is needed. We also discuss types of walls and styles to help you visualize the final product! Shortly after you'll receive an estimate.
Sit back and relax. By now, we've ironed out the details and are ready to bring your vision to life. We understand the construction process can be a drag, so we handle all the logistics to make your life easier.

Submit a Form

Common Questions

What goes behind a retaining wall?

There is a multitude of material that goes behind a wall such as 57 stone (drainage stone), non-woven geotextile fabric, geogrid, perforated pipe, compacted backfill, wall drains, and more.

Why do retaining walls lean or fail?

Almost always water and the footing. Water pushing from behind, or a foundation too weak for the load, moves a wall over time. That is why we start with a strong foundation and proper drainage, and why we build walls to last.

Should I choose a boulder wall or a block wall?

A boulder wall is stacked natural stone with a rugged look that suits a slope. A segmental retaining wall (SRW) is interlocking block with a clean, even face. We build both. Which fits depends on the slope, the look you want and what the wall has to hold.

Who handles the drainage above and below the wall?

We do. Drainage is part of the wall and part of the yard, and yard drainage is one of our services, so it is one company and one call.

Is it normal for a retaining wall to lean back a little?

A segmental block wall is stepped back slightly as it rises, so it leans into the soil it holds. That is the design. A wall that leans outward, bulges or shows gaps has a problem, usually water behind it or a weak foundation.

Does a wall holding up a driveway or patio need extra work?

More weight sits on it, so the foundation and the drainage matter more. We look at what is above the wall before we build, and plan both into it.

Cities We Serve for Retaining Walls

Anderson Greenville Easley Seneca Salem Pendleton Clemson