Add structure without cutting corners below ground
Concrete footings first
A good wall starts on a stable base sized for the weight and role of the build.
Retaining planned carefully
Changing levels and soil pressure are considered before bricks or blocks start going up.
Useful features built in
Planters, steps, piers and seating can be tied into the wall as part of the job.
Walls that do more than mark the edge
A garden wall can hold back ground, frame a patio, define a boundary or simply give the garden more structure than a run of fencing ever could. We build garden walls in Romford for practical and decorative purposes, using brick, block or natural stone depending on the job. Low walls, piers, raised planters, built-in seating and steps can all form part of the scheme. The wall still has to do its work day after day, though, so we start with accurate setting out, stable ground and concrete footings sized to suit the build rather than relying on luck and a straight line.
Retaining work needs strength and drainage behind it
Retaining walls bring extra demands because they are dealing with soil pressure and changing levels, not just appearances. We plan those jobs with the ground conditions, drainage and surrounding hard landscaping in mind so the wall and the space around it work together. Where appropriate, damp protection and weep holes form part of the design to help manage moisture. By sorting the hidden structure properly, we can then make the visible details count too, from capping choices to how the wall links into paths, patios or planted areas.
Frequently asked questions
Does a retaining wall need special planning?
Yes, because it has to resist soil pressure as well as look right. Ground conditions, drainage, height and the surrounding levels all matter. We inspect the site and plan the build accordingly rather than treating a retaining wall like a simple boundary feature.
What materials can be used for a garden wall?
Brick, block and natural stone can all work, depending on the purpose of the wall and the finish you want. Some jobs suit a solid structural block wall with facing materials, while others work well in brick or stone. We talk through the practical fit during the site visit.
Why are footings so important for a wall?
Because the footing spreads the load and gives the wall a stable start. If that base is too small or the ground below is poor, movement and cracking are far more likely. Getting the foundation right is what helps the wall stay straight and serviceable.