1) Poor Drainage Behind the Wall
Hydrostatic pressure is the most common cause of wall movement and collapse. Water trapped behind the wall adds load that most failed systems were never designed to handle.
Backfill design, drainage aggregate, and discharge planning should be part of every retaining wall scope.
2) Inadequate Base and Footing Preparation
Walls built on weak or poorly compacted base layers settle unevenly. That settlement creates cracks, tilt, and eventually loss of structural performance.
Proper excavation depth, base compaction, and leveling are non-negotiable for long-term stability.
3) Wrong Material for the Height and Load
Decorative wall blocks are not always suitable for higher loads, slopes, or adjacent driveway pressures. Material and reinforcement should match wall height and site conditions.
Structural walls often require engineering review when loading or grade changes are significant.
4) Ignoring Surface Water Management
Gutters, downspouts, and slope direction influence retaining wall stress. Even a well-built wall can fail if roof and surface runoff are directed toward it.
A full solution includes both wall reconstruction and water redirection strategy.
5) Delayed Maintenance and Small Repairs
Early warning signs include leaning, cracking, bulging, and displaced cap units. Addressing these signs quickly is often far cheaper than emergency rebuild.
Routine inspection after heavy storm seasons helps catch problems before structural damage accelerates.