If you’re a homeowner in Vermont, you know that our landscape doesn’t always make things easy. Sloped yards, drainage issues, and shifting soil are part of the deal. I’ve been building retaining walls for years across towns like Shelburne, Charlotte, and all over Chittenden County. And let me tell you—retaining walls can be game-changers for a property when they’re done right.
A well-built retaining wall doesn’t just hold back dirt. It helps protect your foundation, prevents erosion, creates usable space, and gives your yard a clean, finished look. I approach every job with one goal: to build something that’s going to last and look good doing it.
Why Retaining Walls Matter
Retaining walls are about more than just structure—they’re about peace of mind. When I meet with homeowners, I often hear the same concerns:
- “The hill behind our house is eroding every spring.”
- “Our backyard is so sloped we can’t even put a lawn chair on it.”
- “Water keeps pooling near our basement after it rains.”
These aren’t just cosmetic issues—they’re signs that the landscape is working against your home. A retaining wall helps turn that around by controlling how water flows, holding the soil in place, and making your outdoor space more usable and enjoyable.
The Process: What You Can Expect
Every wall I build starts with a conversation. I want to understand what you’re dealing with, what your goals are, and what kind of style fits your home. Here’s how the process usually goes:
- Site Evaluation – I come out and assess the area: slope, soil type, drainage, and what’s causing the problem.
- Design + Materials – We’ll talk about materials (stone, block, concrete, etc.) and I’ll give you options based on what fits your home and budget.
- Solid Foundation – I dig deep to get below the frost line and create a solid base. A wall is only as strong as what’s underneath it.
- Proper Drainage – This is the most overlooked part of DIY or poorly done walls. I always install gravel backfill and drainage piping to make sure water doesn’t build up behind the wall and cause failure.
- Finishing Touches – Once the structure is in, I clean up the site, do any necessary landscaping around the wall, and make sure everything is looking sharp before I call the job done.
Materials That Match Your Home
Every home is different, which is why I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Some folks want a natural stone look that blends in with the landscape, while others prefer the clean lines and modern feel of concrete block. I’ll help you choose the right material not just for your yard, but for your style. After all, the wall should enhance your property—not stick out like a sore thumb.
Real Results, Real Relief
I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many great homeowners—especially in towns like Shelburne, Charlotte and Williston—who were initially stressed about their yards. But once the wall goes in? It’s a whole different story.
One family in Colchester couldn’t use half their backyard because of a steep slope. We installed a tiered wall that created two flat spaces: one for a patio, and one for a garden. Another homeowner in Burlington had water issues threatening their basement. After we built the wall with proper drainage, those worries disappeared.
Seeing those transformations—and hearing how much more people enjoy their space—is what keeps me doing this work.
Thinking About a Wall? Let’s Talk.
If you’re staring at a tricky slope, a crumbling old wall, or just want to make your outdoor space more functional, I’d love to take a look. I’ll give you an honest assessment of what’s possible and what it’ll take to do it right. No sales pitch—just straight talk and solid work.
You can learn more about our work in and around Shelburne, Charlotte and Williston or get in touch for a quote. Let’s make your yard work for you, not against you.
