Retaining Walls

Expert Retaining Wall Installation in Rockland, MA

A sloped yard that erodes after every rainstorm, unusable terrain that limits your outdoor space, or a grade change that's causing damage to your foundation — these are the problems a properly built retaining wall solves. But not all retaining walls are built equally. Walls without proper drainage behind them fail. Walls without adequate footing shift and lean. Done right, a retaining wall is a lasting structural solution that also improves the look and usability of your property.

DGL Contracting has been installing retaining walls across Rockland and the South Shore for over 30 years. We approach wall construction the way we approach all our sitework — with proper excavation, drainage, and structural detail that produces results built to last.

Retaining Wall Services We Provide in Rockland, MA

Block Retaining Walls

Segmental block retaining walls are one of the most common and cost-effective solutions for grade changes and erosion control. DGL installs block walls with proper batter, base preparation, and drainage — the three elements that determine whether a block wall holds up over time or begins to lean and shift.

Natural Stone Retaining Walls

Natural stone walls — fieldstone, granite, or bluestone — offer a classic New England aesthetic. Stone walls require skilled placement and proper base work to remain stable. DGL builds natural stone retaining walls that are as structurally sound as they are visually appealing.

Landscape Retaining Walls & Terracing

For sloped properties that need to be converted into usable, terraced space, DGL designs and builds tiered retaining wall systems that create level planting beds, lawn areas, or outdoor living spaces from terrain that was previously unusable.

Erosion Control Walls

DGL installs retaining structures specifically designed to stabilize slopes and protect soil from washing away during heavy rain — a common need on South Shore properties with significant grade changes.

Things to Consider Before Installing a Retaining Wall

• Drainage behind the wall is critical. Water pressure buildup behind a retaining wall is the leading cause of wall failure. Proper gravel backfill and drainage pipe are required for any wall over 2 feet tall.
  
  
• Wall height affects structural requirements. Walls over 4 feet typically require engineered design and permits in Massachusetts municipalities.
  
  
• Base depth matters. The base course must be buried below grade — at least 1 inch per foot of wall height.
  
  
• Material choice affects aesthetics and cost. Block is typically more affordable and consistent; natural stone is more expensive but aesthetically distinct.
  
  
• Address root causes alongside the wall. If erosion or grade problems are driving the project, drainage corrections may be needed in combination.
  
  
• South Shore freeze-thaw cycles are demanding. Wall construction must account for frost movement — base depth and drainage are non-negotiable.

Cost of Retaining Wall Installation in Rockland, MA

• Small landscape walls (under 3 feet) — Lower investment, appropriate for garden edging, small grade changes, and decorative terracing.
  
  
• Mid-height structural walls (3–4 feet) — Mid-range investment. Proper drainage and base requirements increase scope at this height.
  
  
• Taller walls requiring permits or engineering — Higher investment reflecting design requirements, permitting, and structural complexity.

Call DGL at (781) 985-4535 for a free on-site estimate.

Our Retaining Wall Process

1. Free On-Site Estimate — We assess the grade, soil conditions, and drainage situation and discuss material options.
   
   
2. Permitting & Planning — Permits obtained where required. Drainage plan finalized before construction begins.
   
   
3. Excavation & Base Preparation — Footing trench excavated, base course set below grade, gravel installed behind the wall line.
   
   
4. Wall Construction — Wall built with correct batter, drainage pipe, and gravel backfill. Each course checked for level and alignment.
   
   
5. Backfill, Grade & Cleanup — Final grading completed, site cleaned up, drainage outlets confirmed functioning.

Why South Shore Homeowners Choose DGL for Retaining Walls

• Drainage built into every wall — We never install a retaining wall without proper drainage. Full stop.
  
  
• In-house excavation — Proper base work handled by our own crew with our own equipment, not subcontracted.
  
  
• 30+ years of South Shore experience — We know what Massachusetts weather does to outdoor structures and we build accordingly.
  
  
• Licensed & insured — Full coverage on every project.
  
  
• Based in Rockland — Your local, accountable retaining wall contractor.
  

Serving Rockland, MA and the South Shore

DGL serves Rockland, Hanover, Abington, Whitman, Holbrook, Norwell, Scituate, Marshfield, and surrounding South Shore communities. Also serves parts of northern Rhode Island. Does not operate in Boston.

Retaining Wall FAQs

Contact DGL Contracting — Rockland's Retaining Wall Experts

Whether you're controlling erosion, creating usable space, or protecting your foundation, DGL Contracting builds retaining walls that hold up on the South Shore for decades.

Call us today at (781) 985-4535 to request your free estimate.



Licensed & Insured  |  Retaining Wall Specialists  |  Serving Rockland, MA & the South Shore

Trusted by Homeowners Across the South Shore

Don't just take our word for it. DGL Contracting has built a reputation across Rockland and the South Shore through consistent, quality workmanship and dependable service. Here is what our customers have to say.