Retaining Wall Construction

New Retaining Walls & Failing Wall Replacement

Retaining Wall Construction in Burlington, Wisconsin

At Boulder Ridge Landscaping, we design, build, and replace retaining walls that are engineered to perform in Wisconsin conditions. Based in Burlington, we work with homeowners throughout the surrounding area to create stable, attractive walls that solve grading issues and make outdoor spaces more usable.

We build new retaining walls for sloped yards, uneven side areas, and properties with elevation changes, and we also replace old, failing, or collapsed walls that were improperly built or have reached the end of their lifespan. As a BBB-accredited business and Unilock Authorized Contractor, we follow proven construction standards, including proper excavation, base preparation, reinforcement, and drainage.

Our retaining wall options include Unilock segmental block systems, boulder walls, and custom solutions designed to match your home and landscape. Every wall is built for strength, stability, and long-term performance, so you don’t have to worry about leaning, shifting, or premature failure.

If your property needs support, structure, or a complete rebuild, we’re here to build it the right way from the ground up.

Trusted Retaining Wall Builder in the Celina Area

Boulder Ridge Landscaping has experience building retaining walls that perform well in the soil and grade conditions common throughout Burlington and the surrounding area. From functional walls that manage slope and erosion to raised garden beds and decorative landscape walls, our focus is always on strength, drainage, and long-term stability.

We build tiered retaining walls, corner walls, poolside walls, and raised planters using proven construction methods and quality materials. As a locally owned, family-run company with consistent 5-star Google reviews, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Racine and Walworth Counties, including Burlington, Elkhorn, Lake Geneva, Mukwonago, and Waterford.

Retaining Walls We've Built

We design and build retaining walls in Racine and Walworth Counties.

Built for beauty, strength, and lasting impact

Retaining Walls That Will Stand The Test Of Time

Each of these retaining wall projects reflects the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and creativity that Boulder Ridge Landscaping brings to every retaining wall we build. Our designs are built for beauty, strength, and functionality.

Building New Retaining Walls in Burlington, Wisconsin

At Boulder Ridge Landscaping, we build structurally sound, visually appealing retaining walls designed to solve elevation and drainage issues common across Burlington and the surrounding region. Whether you’re dealing with a sloped backyard, erosion concerns, or the need to carve out flat, usable space, we offer solutions built to last.

We follow manufacturer specifications for the products we install, ensuring proper base prep, compaction, and drainage. From tiered garden walls to poolside retaining walls and corner solutions, every project is customized to meet site conditions and local requirements.

Do You Need a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Burlington?

In most Burlington-area municipalities, retaining walls under 4 feet tall typically don’t require a permit. However, walls over 4 feet, or those supporting additional weight (known as a surcharge) such as driveways, fencing, or structures often require both a permit and engineering approval under Wisconsin building codes.

We assess all project details during your consultation and can coordinate with licensed engineers when required. We’ll also handle the permit process for you if needed.

Why Proper Drainage Matters

A large percentage of failed retaining walls we replace in the Burlington area were built without adequate drainage. Heavy clay soils common in this region hold water, which increases hydrostatic pressure behind the wall. Without drainage, this pressure leads to bowing, cracking, or full collapse.

That’s why every retaining wall we build includes appropriate drainage such as weeping tile, perforated pipe, gravel backfill, and filter fabric to protect the structure and extend its lifespan.

What Is a Retaining Wall Surcharge?

A surcharge refers to any added weight or load above or behind your wall—like a parked vehicle, hot tub, fence, or terraced landscaping. These loads significantly increase the pressure on the wall and require reinforcement.

We account for these loads by using methods like geo-grid reinforcement, which locks the wall into the surrounding soil to resist movement. If your wall has a surcharge, proper design and materials are critical.

Common Materials We Use To Build Retaining Walls

We offer a variety of retaining wall options to suit both structural needs and aesthetic preferences:

    • Segmental block retaining walls (ideal for most residential applications)
    • Natural stone retaining walls (great for rustic or high-end landscapes)
    • Boulder walls (excellent for larger slopes and a natural look)

Our Retaining Wall Construction Process

    1. Site Consultation – We assess slope, soil, and access.
    2. Design & Engineering – We determine wall height, permit needs, and surcharge loads.
    3. Material Selection – Choose between block, stone, or boulders.
    4. Estimate & Scheduling – We provide a detailed written quote.
    5. Construction – We follow best practices to ensure strength, drainage, and longevity.

If you're planning a retaining wall project in Burlington, Elkhorn, Franklin, Mukwonago, or surrounding areas, we’re ready to help. Contact Boulder Ridge Landscaping today to schedule your on-site consultation.

How Much Do Retaining Walls Cost?

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Smaller Garden Walls

$3,000 - $5,000

This would be for a small garden wall (under 2 feet high) to surround a small garden or to surround a small landscaping bed.

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Medium Sized Walls

$5,000 - $10,000

This would be for a medium sized wall up to 4 feet high.  Installed with drainage and geo-grid so it lasts.

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Large Retaining Walls

$10,000+

This would be a ballpark cost for a very large or tiered retaining wall or multiple wall with courses that are 4 feet or higher

Is Your Retaining Wall Failing, Leaning, Or Collapsing?

Retaining Wall Repair and Replacement in Burlington, Wisconsin

We regularly hear from homeowners in the Burlington area who are dealing with retaining walls that are leaning, cracking, or failing altogether. Older timber walls, improperly built block walls, and walls without proper drainage often fail under Wisconsin’s soil conditions and freeze thaw cycles.

At Boulder Ridge Landscaping, we focus on long term solutions, not temporary fixes. In many cases, a failing retaining wall points to problems below the surface, such as poor base preparation, lack of drainage, or missing reinforcement. Patching or straightening a wall rarely solves the issue. That’s why we typically recommend full replacement when structural integrity is compromised.

Rebuilding Failing Retaining Walls the Right Way

If your retaining wall has already failed or is showing clear signs of movement, we can help by rebuilding it correctly from the ground up. Our process includes:

    • Safe removal and disposal of the existing wall
    • Re excavation to establish a proper foundation
    • Installation of a compacted crushed stone base and drainage system
    • Reinforcement with geogrid where required
    • Rebuilding the wall using segmental block, natural stone, or boulders based on your property and design goals

We specialize in replacing failed retaining walls with professionally built, code compliant structures designed to perform under soil pressure, water buildup, and added loads.

If you’re in Burlington, Elkhorn, Mukwonago, or nearby communities and your retaining wall is showing signs of failure, contact Boulder Ridge Landscaping for a consultation and a long term solution you can rely on.

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