South Fort Worth Retaining Wall Replacement: 300-Foot Engineered Keystone Wall
When an aging retaining wall begins to deteriorate, the problem can be much more serious than appearance. In South Fort Worth, Peterson’s Landscape recently completed a major retaining wall replacement project involving approximately 300 feet of retaining wall, with portions of the new wall reaching more than 7 feet in height.
The project included engineering, drainage improvements, geogrid reinforcement, new stairs, landscape lighting, electrical improvements and a complete transformation from deteriorating railroad ties to a long-term Keystone retaining wall system.
Project at a Glance
South Fort Worth Retaining Wall Project
| Location | South Fort Worth |
| Wall Length | Approximately 300 feet |
| Maximum Height | More than 7 feet |
| Wall System | Keystone Regal Stone Pro |
| Engineering | Project-specific engineered design |
| Additional Work | Drainage, stairs, lighting, electrical and irrigation |
Replacing a Failing Railroad Tie Retaining Wall
The original retaining wall was constructed from railroad ties. Railroad ties have been used for retaining walls for many years because they are relatively inexpensive and readily available. However, wood is still wood. Over time, exposure to moisture, soil and the elements can cause railroad ties to deteriorate, rot and lose their structural integrity.
In this case, the deterioration had progressed to the point that the wall needed to be completely replaced.
The location made the project especially important. The retaining wall was located close to the customer's home and garage, meaning a significant failure could potentially affect more than just the landscape.
Engineering the New Retaining Wall
Because of the size and height of the wall, this was not a simple landscape installation. The project involved engineering and a detailed plan for constructing the wall according to the requirements of the engineered design and the retaining wall system.
The goal was not simply to build a wall that looked good when completed. The goal was to build a complete retaining wall system designed to manage soil pressure, water, reinforcement and the loads affecting the wall.
Why Retaining Wall Drainage Matters
One of the biggest threats to a retaining wall is water.
When water becomes trapped behind a wall, it creates hydrostatic pressure. That additional pressure can place significant stress on the wall and contribute to movement, bowing or failure.
Proper drainage is therefore not an optional upgrade. It is a critical part of the retaining wall system.
Building the New Keystone Wall
The customer selected Keystone Regal Stone Pro for the new retaining wall. This is a large manufactured wall stone designed for substantial retaining wall applications, and the customer selected the desired color for the finished project.
The construction process began with preparation of a strong, properly compacted base. From there, the wall was constructed in accordance with the engineered plans and the requirements of the Keystone wall system.
Drainage Behind the Wall
Drainage was one of the most important components of the project.
Peterson’s installed buried downspouts and routed drainage around and away from the retaining wall. A French drain was also installed behind the wall near the bottom, using perforated drainage pipe to help collect and move water away from the structure.
The engineer recommended two separate drainage systems because the property needed to handle different volumes and sources of water.
Water Has to Have Somewhere to Go
A retaining wall can be structurally strong, but if water is allowed to build up behind it, the pressure can become a serious problem.
That is why drainage should be considered during the design and construction process rather than treated as an afterthought.
Learn more about drainage problems in North Texas in our North Texas drainage guide.
Geogrid Reinforcement: The Strength Behind the Wall
Another major component of the project was the installation of geogrid reinforcement.
Geogrid is installed within the soil behind the wall to reinforce the soil mass and help the wall system resist movement. For a large retaining wall such as this one, reinforcement is an important part of the overall engineered system.
“The geogrid is part of what holds the entire retaining wall system together. It is not something you see when the project is finished, but it is one of the most important components behind the finished wall.”
Peterson’s installed the reinforcement according to the engineered design and the requirements of the wall system.
What Can Make a Retaining Wall Fail?
There is not one single reason every retaining wall fails. Several factors need to be considered when designing and constructing a retaining wall.
- Poor or inadequate base preparation
- Insufficient compaction
- Inadequate drainage
- Water buildup behind the wall
- Improper backfill
- Insufficient reinforcement
- Improper geogrid installation
- Unaccounted-for slopes or loads
- Construction that does not follow the engineered design
That is why Peterson’s approaches retaining walls as complete systems rather than simply stacking blocks or stone.
New Stone Staircases
The retaining wall project also included two staircases.
One of the existing staircases was constructed from wood and was removed as part of the project. Peterson’s then constructed a new stone staircase to integrate with the new retaining wall and surrounding landscape.
A custom handrail was also added later to complete the staircase and improve access.
The new staircases were designed to become part of the overall retaining wall and landscape rather than simply being added as separate features.
Landscape Lighting Along the Wall
Once the major structural work was complete, the project also received landscape lighting improvements.
Kichler lighting was installed at the staircases and along the retaining wall. The lighting adds visibility around the stairs while also highlighting the new stonework after dark.
Peterson’s provides landscape lighting services throughout the North Texas area.
Electrical and Irrigation Improvements
Large landscape construction projects often uncover other issues that need to be addressed before the work can be completed properly.
During this project, deteriorated electrical lines were moved and replaced. New wiring and GFI plugs were installed, and the electrical system was reconnected.
The irrigation system was also addressed and reconnected as part of the project.
A Complete Landscape Construction Project
This project demonstrates why large retaining wall projects often involve much more than the wall itself.
Drainage, electrical, irrigation, stairs, lighting, access, soil conditions and surrounding landscape features all have to work together.
The finished result should function as one complete landscape system.
More Than a Month of Construction
This was a major construction project that took more than a month to complete.
At various points, two to three crews were working on the project at the same time. Large quantities of wall material, base material, drainage components and other construction materials had to be delivered, staged and installed.
The project also required significant cleanup and coordination throughout the construction process.
The Finished South Fort Worth Retaining Wall
The transformation was dramatic.
The original railroad tie wall had deteriorated and had become covered with mold, algae and years of weathering. In its place is a substantial new stone retaining wall designed as a complete engineered system.
The new wall provides a completely different appearance while also addressing the structural and drainage concerns that led to the original wall's replacement.
From Deteriorated Timber to Engineered Stone
- Approximately 300 feet of retaining wall
- Sections exceeding 7 feet in height
- Engineered reinforcement and drainage
- New stone stairs and landscape lighting
- Electrical and irrigation improvements
- A complete transformation of the surrounding landscape
Need a Retaining Wall in Fort Worth or North Texas?
Retaining walls can range from relatively simple landscape features to major structural projects involving engineering, drainage and reinforcement.
Peterson’s Landscape works with homeowners and property owners throughout North Texas to design and construct retaining walls, hardscapes, drainage systems, patios, walkways and other landscape improvements.
Visit our retaining wall services page to learn more about the types of retaining wall projects we build.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Walls
How long does a retaining wall last?
The lifespan depends on the wall material, engineering, construction, drainage, soil conditions and maintenance. Proper design and construction can significantly improve the long-term performance of a retaining wall.
Why is drainage important behind a retaining wall?
Drainage helps prevent water from accumulating behind the wall. Excess water can create hydrostatic pressure that places additional stress on the retaining wall.
Does a tall retaining wall need engineering?
The requirements depend on the location, height, soil conditions, loads and local requirements. Larger or more complex walls may require engineering and project-specific design.
What is geogrid used for?
Geogrid is used to reinforce the soil behind a retaining wall. It becomes part of the overall wall system and helps resist movement when installed according to the engineered design.
Planning a Retaining Wall or Hardscape Project?
Whether you need a retaining wall replacement, new drainage, stone stairs, landscape lighting or a complete landscape transformation, Peterson’s Landscape can help develop a plan for your property.
Peterson’s Landscape has served North Texas since 1989, providing landscape design, construction, maintenance, irrigation, drainage and outdoor living solutions.