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Testimonials
Retaining Wall Installation in Hartford County, CT
Searching for a reliable retaining wall contractor in Hartford County? Excellence Masonry and Contracting serves towns like Avon, Simsbury, and Farmington, building high-quality, engineered retaining walls to solve any slope issue.
A retaining wall is often an engineered system (walls over 3-4ft tall engineering is required by code) designed to hold back immense soil pressure, and its failure can be catastrophic- requiring full replacement. The most critical, yet invisible, components are drainage and reinforcement. Behind every wall we build, we install a clean, crushed stone backfill and a perforated drainage pipe system at the base to channel hydrostatic pressure away from the structure. For taller walls built with segmental retaining wall (SRW) blocks, we engineer a geogrid reinforcement system—a strong, flexible mesh that extends from the wall back into the soil, effectively anchoring the wall to the earth it's holding back. These engineering principles are non-negotiable for building a safe and permanent retaining wall.
Why Choose Us?
There are many construction, landscaping, outdoor living, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.
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Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated- no stone is left unturned, and as a design-build company, we have an unmatched ability to assess, plan, and execute projects efficiently.
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The Team We Have is Experienced and Robust- our construction team is comprised of experts who are our family, friends, as well as long-time employees and subcontractors. Our company sprouted from a family business started 25+ years ago, and some members of our crew have more than 50 years of experience.
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Industry-Leading Warranties and a Client for Life Guarantee- on new installations and applicable repairs, we provide warranties well beyond State minimums, and well beyond what most construction, landscaping, masonry, or other companies offer. Our client for life guarantee means that we intend to stand by you and our work, for the life of our business. Our goal is to provide many services and complete many projects for you and the people you know over time. With this intention, we will always be available to address issues, make repairs, or provide maintenance for completed projects- regardless of warranty terms.
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Transparency and Consistent Communication- with us, all cards are on the table from our first conversation, through the end of the project. We want to provide you with all pertinent details, considerations, and options so you are educated and completely in control of your project and your money. Throughout the project, we uphold this commitment to transparency and communication by providing daily updates and informing you of any changes or new information immediately.
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Commitment to Professional Responsibility and Top-Quality- in our view, it is our responsibility to ensure your project is done to the highest possible standard within your budget and within the parameters of feasibility. You will not feel like it is "on you" to know what's best or to manage the project when you work with us, which is a common complaint we hear from clients' past experiences. We also have a commitment to top quality, which we display in our work, our team, our industry partners, and our process.
Our Approach to Projects
Of course, every project and every situation is different, and so is our approach.. Below is a general and simplified outline of our process. We can also bid and build to your preexisting plan or design.
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Discovery/Consultation
We start with a conversation to understand your intent for the project, assess your property, and determine the best next step- usually a rough estimate, quote or design agreement. Rough pricing, options, and preliminary considerations are discussed. Email, call or fill the form below to get in touch!
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Design / Planning
The design and planning phase is where we value engineer your project- and establish the scope of work, project pricing, and our installation/construction plan. This phase will look a bit different for each project and each scenario, with some requiring more design and pre-construction work than others.
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Construction
This is when the proposed plan comes to life! Expect a stress-free, transparent, and efficient construction experience due to our thorough design and planning process and consistent communication. Our team respects you, your project, and your property.
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Walk-Thru & Clean-Up
After the project is completed, we will walk through the project to go over any pertinent information and maintenance information, as well as to confirm that the project is completed as expected.
FAQ's
What is the primary purpose of a retaining wall?
A retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back, or 'retain,' soil and earth. Its primary purpose is to prevent erosion and create flat, usable areas on sloped properties, such as for patios, lawns, or driveways.
What materials can be used for retaining walls?
Common materials include manufactured segmental retaining wall (SRW) blocks, which interlock for strength, and natural stone, such as fieldstone or granite, which can be dry-stacked or mortared. Both offer excellent durability and different aesthetics.
Do I need a permit to build a retaining wall in CT?
Most towns in Connecticut require a building permit and sometimes an engineered plan for retaining walls over a specific height, typically between 3 and 4 feet. It's crucial to check with your local building department before construction.
How do you ensure a retaining wall is strong enough?
The strength comes from proper construction techniques. This includes a compacted gravel footing below the frost line, integrated drainage systems to relieve water pressure, using geogrid reinforcement on taller walls, and proper batter (setback).
Can a retaining wall also be a design feature?
Absolutely. A well-designed retaining wall is both functional and beautiful. It can serve as a garden planter, a seating wall, or an architectural feature that adds depth, texture, and value to your landscape.
What materials can be used for retaining walls?
Common materials include manufactured segmental retaining wall (SRW) blocks, which interlock for strength, and natural stone, such as fieldstone or granite, which can be dry-stacked or mortared. Both offer excellent durability and different aesthetics.
Can a retaining wall also be a design feature?
Absolutely. A well-designed retaining wall is both functional and beautiful. It can serve as a garden planter, a seating wall, or an architectural feature that adds depth, texture, and value to your landscape.
Do I need a permit to build a retaining wall in CT?
Most towns in Connecticut require a building permit and sometimes an engineered plan for retaining walls over a specific height, typically between 3 and 4 feet. It's crucial to check with your local building department before construction.
How do you ensure a retaining wall is strong enough?
The strength comes from proper construction techniques. This includes a compacted gravel footing below the frost line, integrated drainage systems to relieve water pressure, using geogrid reinforcement on taller walls, and proper batter (setback).
What is the primary purpose of a retaining wall?
A retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back, or 'retain,' soil and earth. Its primary purpose is to prevent erosion and create flat, usable areas on sloped properties, such as for patios, lawns, or driveways.