A well-built retaining wall not only supports soil and prevents erosion — it can also add beautiful structure to your landscape. In Los Angeles, where hills and sloped yards are common, a durable retaining wall is often a must.
If you’re planning to tackle this project yourself, Ace Building Materials is here to guide you every step of the way!
Why Build a Retaining Wall?
Your wall is only as good as what you build it with. That’s why we recommend starting with:
At Ace, we carry trusted brands like Angelus Block and Soil Retention to make sure your project is built to last.
Measure your space carefully and map out your wall. Retaining walls taller than 4 feet often need permits and engineering, so always check Los Angeles city guidelines first.
Dig down deep enough to create a sturdy foundation. A good rule: about 1 inch of buried block height for every 8 inches of wall height.
Lay a 4–6 inch layer of compacted gravel at the bottom to support drainage and prevent shifting.
This first row is critical — it must be perfectly level from side to side and front to back.
Stack your blocks carefully, staggering the joints like bricks. Use construction adhesive or clips if your block system requires it.
Every couple of courses, backfill behind the wall with gravel and soil to keep pressure even.
Cap your wall with special cap blocks and adhesive for a polished look.
Popular Retaining Wall Ideas for Los Angeles Yards
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Come visit Ace Building Materials — we’ll help you find the perfect retaining wall blocks, drainage materials, and everything else you need.
Let’s build something that lasts!
