Austin Block Company
Retaining Walls
Central Texas retaining walls are our specialty, and we pride ourselves on being one of the most reputable companies for durable retaining wall solutions in the state.

Types of Retaining Walls
Limestone Block Wall
A block wall is our most popular and recommended retaining wall. Limestone blocks, available in various sizes and colors, offer elegance and lasting protection for walls two feet or higher. For a cost-effective option, concrete blocks can be used.

Chopped Stone Wall
Mortared high-quality limestone offers a unique aesthetic. We use chopped limestone with white or grey mortar to create a retaining wall that’s both timeless in appearance and durable in construction.

Field Stone Wall
Field stone walls are made up of natural limestone pieces. The gaps between the stone are then filled with white or grey mortar. This wall type can often be more cost effective, and creates a unique look that is sure to get your attention.

Pre-Cast Concrete
Pre-cast concrete block walls are the latest innovation in modular retaining wall design. These blocks feature a rough split-face and can be easily set in place. The set-back guide line allows for precise placement on site, while the hollow blocks are light and easy to handle.

Types of Retaining Walls
What Sets Our Retaining Walls Apart
Proper Drainage Design
Every retaining wall we build includes drainage considerations to relieve hydrostatic pressure and prevent premature failure.
Engineered Solutions When Required
For taller or load-bearing walls, we coordinate reinforced and engineered solutions based on site conditions and design requirements.
Correct Base & Footing Preparation
Wall performance starts below grade. We focus on excavation, compaction, and base preparation before construction begins.

Material Selection for the Application
Limestone, block, or concrete systems are selected based on height, soil conditions, and project requirements — not aesthetics alone.
Built for Central Texas Conditions
Our retaining wall systems are designed for the soils, grades, and drainage challenges common throughout Central Texas.
Residential & Commercial Experience
Experience building retaining walls for residential, commercial, and infrastructure applications.
Installation Options
Concrete Footing
Concrete footing would usually be used where soil conditions are poor or when exceeding the maximum unreinforced wall heights with an engineered design. First, we excavate a 6″- 8″ deep trench to lay the foundation in. Once the soil has been cleared out, we install the stakes and planks to pour the concrete, as well as the rebar to support our footing. Lastly, we pour the concrete, allow it to dry, and begin constructing the wall.

Earth-in Footing
All unusable spoils should be removed. Once all of the unsuitable materials have been removed, the bottom of the footing should be sufficiently compacted. Once the footing subgrade has been compacted, a select fill should be installed between 6″- 8″ lifts. The depth of your base layer is influenced by the soil type and application. The base layer should be leveled and compacted firmly. This should help safeguard against shifting and/or settling.

Block Pinning
Our Block Pinning option, gives your retaining wall extra durability and stability. Rebar pins are installed, linking the blocks together vertically. This helps to prevent shifting, sliding, and/or settling.

Mortar
Mortar can be used to secure stone to help prevent shifting, settling, or sliding over time. We use a white or grey masonry mortar to fill the gaps between the stones, because of this, it is important to add a drain pipe behind the wall to allow for water passage.

Dry Stack
A dry stack wall is a type of retaining wall that does not require mortar, geogrid, pinning or reinforcement. Instead, the stones are placed onto one another directly. Gravel and smaller rocks are used to fill in gaps between the stones, but excess space that is left allows for water to drain out the face of the wall naturally.

Geo-Grid Textile
Geo-Grid material is added between each layer to anchor the blocks laterally to the fill material. The geo-grid is typically secured using mortar or pinning in order to insure proper placement of the geogrid lasts and can withstand any shifting that would otherwise cause wall failure.

Drain Outlets
A dry stack wall is a type of retaining wall that does not require mortar, geogrid, pinning or reinforcement. Instead, the stones are placed onto one another directly. Gravel and smaller rocks are used to fill in gaps between the stones, but excess space that is left allows for water to drain out the face of the wall naturally.

Drainage Rock & Fabric
To help protect against drainage issues, we suggest using washed gravel behind our block walls. Once the gravel has been installed, we will install our heavy-duty Geo-fabric to help keep fill material separate from the gravel.

Installation Options
Service Area
We build retaining walls all over Central Texas.
Primary service area: Austin & Central Texas
Extended service area available for select commercial and material supply projects.

The Process
Speak with the Austin Block Co team to begin discussing the scope of the project.
We will use plans, photos, and measurements, as well as virtual survey data, to plan the project.
The execution phase. This is where all of the pre planning pays off and your vision is brought to life!
Experience Your Wall Before It’s Built
Our 3D renderings let you rotate, zoom, and explore your design from every angle. Adjust materials, heights, and layouts in real time—making approvals easier and construction more predictable.

Let’s Work Together To Bring Your Vision To Life
Enhance your landscape with a custom retaining wall that combines style and function. Book a free consultation—by phone or on-site—to explore how Austin Block Company’s quality craftsmanship and durable retaining wall solutions can bring your vision to life, creating a beautiful outdoor space.
A Collection of Some Frequently Asked Questions
A collection of a few of our most frequently asked questions.























