Retaining walls play a crucial role in supporting soil, preventing erosion, and protecting structures from damage. But when a retaining wall starts to crack, lean, or bow outward, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a serious structural concern that can lead to costly repairs, flooding, and even safety hazards.
At SKS Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable most retaining wall failures really are. Whether it’s improper construction, lack of drainage, or aging materials, understanding the root causes can help you maintain a safe and long-lasting wall.
Below are the most common causes of retaining wall failure—and what you can do to prevent them.
Why It Happens
Water is the #1 reason retaining walls fail. When drainage isn’t properly engineered, water builds up behind the wall and increases hydrostatic pressure. This pressure pushes against the wall until it cracks, leans, or collapses.
Signs to Watch For
How to Prevent It
✔ Install weep holes
✔ Add gravel backfill
✔ Use perforated drain pipes
✔ Conduct regular inspections after storms
At SKS Construction, every retaining wall we build includes a complete drainage system designed to protect your structure long-term.
Why It Happens
Retaining walls are not simple landscape features—they require engineering. When walls are built without understanding soil type, load, height restrictions, or lateral pressure, they often fail prematurely.
Common Issues
How to Prevent It
✔ Work with licensed engineers
✔ Use structural plans for high or load-bearing walls
✔ Ensure proper footing and reinforcement
SKS Construction ensures all retaining walls—especially taller ones—are built according to California building codes and engineered specifications.
Why It Happens
Many failures occur because contractors use native soil instead of proper drainage gravel or engineered backfill. Certain soils expand when saturated, leading to extreme pressure against the wall.
Signs Your Backfill Is Failing
How to Prevent It
✔ Use crushed rock or engineered backfill
✔ Avoid clay-heavy soil behind the wall
✔ Compact in layers to minimize settling
Our team uses only engineered backfill materials to maximize wall strength and longevity.
Why It Happens
Just like any structure, retaining walls need a strong foundation. Without a proper footing, the wall can settle unevenly, lean forward, or shear.
Common Foundation Errors
How to Prevent It
✔ Construct footings below the frost line (where applicable)
✔ Use rebar and proper footing dimensions
✔ Ensure soil is compacted before and after installation
SKS Construction builds every wall on a reinforced, well-compacted foundation to prevent future settlement.
Why It Happens
Large tree roots exert lateral pressure on retaining walls. As they grow, they can crack the structure or push individual blocks or panels out of alignment.
How to Prevent It
✔ Plant trees at least several feet away
✔ Choose low-root landscaping
✔ Schedule routine inspections for nearby vegetation
If trees are already affecting your wall, SKS Construction can help you assess the safest removal or structural reinforcement options.
Why It Happens
Even well-built retaining walls degrade over time. Exposure to water, soil movement, earthquakes, and weathering can weaken materials and joints.
Typical Signs of Aging
How to Prevent It
✔ Conduct annual inspections
✔ Repair small issues before they expand
✔ Seal or waterproof vulnerable surfaces
At SKS Construction, we also offer restoration and reinforcement services for aging retaining walls.
When you choose SKS Construction, you’re working with a team that prioritizes:
Our goal is to build retaining walls that are not just functional—but safe, long-lasting, and structurally sound for years to come.
Whether your retaining wall is leaning, cracking, or showing early signs of failure, our team can inspect, diagnose, and restore it quickly and safely.
📞 Call SKS Construction
📩 Book a Free Assessment
🌐 Visit our website for more information
Protect your property. Prevent costly failures. Build with confidence—build with SKS Construction.
