Q. I want to build a retaining wall that’s going to look great for years. At my last house, I had a short retaining wall around a patio that started to lean out toward the lawn. The little wall was ...

Retaining walls built of stone or brick are the traditional style and usually blend nicely into their surrounding landscape. The question is, though: are these really the best materials for the job ...

Flat, even landscapes are often coveted in backyards. However, flat backyards are not always found. Fortunately, varied terrain does not mean certain landscaping plans are entirely off limits, ...

The desire to have a bit of land to call your own is not an uncommon one. However, in the Bay Area, finding our own personal outdoor space can be a challenge. Some of us live in newer housing ...

Q: Tim, I’ve seen quite a few failed retaining walls. Many have bulges or have tipped over. What needs to be done to ensure I only do mine one time? I’ve seen photos of walls hundreds of years old ...

When it comes to choosing a retaining wall to hold back runoff in a terraced area, there are a lot of choices. Concrete walls are particularly popular because they are easy to use and come in a nice ...

Homeowners have lots of reasons to build retaining walls. Have issues with erosion and runoff? Is flooding a threat? Need to hold back dirt? Want to build a patio? The answer to all these needs and ...

Dear James: I’m planning a veggie garden on my sloping lot so I need a retaining wall. I have used timbers before, but blocks might hold up better. Which method do you prefer? -- Steve W. Dear Steve: ...