Moss Rock & Retaining Walls
Turn steep, unusable slopes into level, usable yard space with walls built to hold up and look natural.
Walls That Hold the Hill and Look Like They Belong
Hillside and sloped lots are common across the East Bay, from the Castro Valley hills to San Ramon. About 90% of the walls we build are moss rock, a natural stone that blends into the landscape and looks better with age. We also build block and stacked-stone walls when the design calls for a cleaner, modern look.
Moss Rock Walls
Natural moss rock walls and terraces that hold back slopes and look like a natural outcropping.
Tiered Terraces
Step a steep slope into level planting beds, seating areas, or usable yard.
Block & Stacked Stone
Clean, modern block and stacked-stone walls for patios, planters, and grade changes.
Seat Walls
Low walls that double as seating around patios and fire pits.
Steps & Pathways
Stone steps and paths that make hillside yards safe to get around.
Drainage Behind Walls
Drain rock, perforated pipe, and outlets planned where the wall needs them.
How We Build Walls
Most wall problems come from what is behind and below the wall, not the stone you see. We plan the footing, base, and drainage for each wall based on its height, the soil, and how much water reaches it.
- Block and masonry walls on reinforced concrete footings sized for the wall
- Building block filled with concrete and reinforced as appropriate
- French drains, perforated pipe, and drain rock behind walls where needed
- 2-year warranty on hardscape and construction
See all of our construction standards on our How We Build page.
Walls We Have Built
Read more in Why Moss Rock Retaining Walls Work So Well in East Bay Yards, or see our drainage services.
What Affects the Cost
Every yard is different, so we price each project after a site visit. Your proposal lays out options so you can choose what matters most.
Retaining Wall FAQs
Why moss rock?
Moss rock is a natural stone that fits East Bay hillsides, softens with age, and works for both retaining walls and terraced planters. It is the stone we use for most of the walls we build.
Does every wall need drainage?
Most do. Water building up behind a wall is a main reason walls lean or fail. Some low garden terrace walls may not need a drain line depending on how they are built, and we will tell you which approach fits your wall.
Do taller walls need a permit?
Taller walls, or walls holding up a driveway, structure, or steep slope, may need a permit or engineering depending on your city. We can help you figure out what is required.
Can you turn a slope into usable yard?
Yes. Tiered walls can turn a steep hillside into level terraces for planting, seating, or a lawn area.