01 — Material Study
Retaining walls built for Omaha grades, drainage, and long-term performance.
Shape the Slope
Turn a difficult grade into a purposeful landscape with engineered wall systems, steps, and planting pockets.
The Problem We Solve
A slope doesn't have to be a liability.
Erosion, unusable grade, and unstable soil are common challenges in the Omaha metro. A properly engineered retaining wall system addresses all three—while creating usable outdoor space and improving the overall appearance of the property.
We design and build wall systems that work with the natural drainage and soil conditions of your specific site. Every project starts with an honest assessment of what the ground is doing and what it needs.
Wall Systems We Build
- —Segmental block retaining walls
- —Timber and railroad tie walls
- —Boulder and natural stone walls
- —Poured concrete walls
- —Commercial and large-scale applications
- —Integrated steps and planting pockets
Material — Segmental Block
Interlocking block systems built for Nebraska soil.
Segmental retaining wall block is the workhorse of residential hardscape. Units interlock without mortar, allowing the wall to flex slightly with freeze-thaw cycles without cracking. We use Allan Block, Versa-Lok, and Belgard systems depending on the height, load, and aesthetic of the project. Proper base compaction, drainage aggregate, and geogrid reinforcement at specified intervals are what separate a wall that lasts from one that leans.
Material — Timber
Timber walls for lower grades and natural settings.
Pressure-treated timber walls bring a natural, informal look to the property. Earth anchors driven perpendicular into the slope every few courses provide the lateral resistance that keeps the wall from rotating forward over time. We use treated lumber rated for ground contact and engineer the anchor spacing and wall section to the specific height and soil conditions of each project.
Project Type — Commercial Scale
Large-scale wall systems for commercial properties.
Commercial retaining wall projects involve higher loads, stricter drainage requirements, and often engineered drawings. We work on parking lot grade changes, commercial site development, and large residential properties where the wall height or length exceeds what standard residential systems are designed for. These projects require geogrid reinforcement schedules, engineered base specifications, and drainage systems sized to handle the catchment area behind the wall.
Material — Natural Stone & Boulder
Boulders and fieldstone set to hold for generations.
Natural boulder walls bring a character that manufactured block cannot replicate. We source limestone, granite, and sandstone boulders sized to the wall height and load requirements. Each stone is set with deliberate contact points and a slight backward batter so the wall leans into the slope. No mortar. No pins. Just mass, friction, and proper placement. These walls age well—they look better at 20 years than they do at installation.
Project Type — Sea Walls
Sea walls and shoreline retention built to last.
Shoreline and waterfront properties present unique challenges—constant water pressure, wave action, and saturated soils demand a wall system engineered specifically for those conditions. We design and build sea walls using materials rated for prolonged water exposure, with drainage and anchoring systems sized to the specific site. Whether it's a pond edge, lake property, or drainage channel, the goal is the same: stop the erosion and protect the grade for the long term.
Field Guide — Retaining Wall Systems
01
Segmental Block
Interlocking concrete block systems offer engineering flexibility, long-term durability, and a clean finished appearance. Ideal for residential grades and tiered landscapes.
02
Timber & Natural Stone
Timber and boulder walls bring a natural character to the landscape. Best suited for lower walls and properties where a softer aesthetic is the goal.
03
Commercial Scale
Large-scale wall systems for commercial properties, parking lots, and significant grade changes. Engineered to meet load and drainage requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about retaining walls.
When does a retaining wall need engineering or permitting?
Requirements vary by wall height, site conditions, and local jurisdiction. In general, walls over four feet tall or walls supporting a surcharge load (like a driveway or structure) are more likely to require engineered drawings and a permit. We will discuss the right next step for your specific project during the assessment.
What is the best retaining wall material for my property?
It depends on the height, load, soil conditions, and the look you want. Segmental block is the most versatile and durable option for most residential applications. Timber works well for lower walls and natural settings. Boulder and natural stone are ideal when character and longevity matter more than a uniform appearance. We will recommend the right system after seeing the site.
How does drainage affect a retaining wall?
Drainage is the most critical factor in retaining wall performance. Water pressure behind a wall is the primary cause of wall failure. Every wall we build includes a drainage aggregate backfill and outlet system sized to the catchment area. Without proper drainage, even a well-built wall will eventually move.
Can a retaining wall create more usable yard space?
Yes—this is one of the most common reasons homeowners invest in a retaining wall. By cutting into a slope and holding the grade back, a wall can create a flat, usable terrace where there was previously an unusable hillside. We design the wall and the resulting space together so the finished project works for how you want to use the yard.
Does Schmidt Construction serve Council Bluffs and the Omaha metro?
Yes. We serve the Omaha metro within approximately 30 miles, including Council Bluffs, Iowa, and surrounding communities. See our Service Areas page for a full list of communities we cover.
Start the Conversation
Bring us the slope.
Tell us about the grade, the erosion, or the unusable space. We'll help figure out what makes sense.