RC Concrete
Decorative residential concrete retaining wall with modern finish - RC Concrete retaining wall contractors
Serving Puyallup, Tacoma & Bellevue

Decorative Retaining Walls

We specialize in decorative concrete walls, seat walls, and planter boxes designed to enhance your yard's beauty and usability, all typically under 4 feet and without the need for complex permits.

  • Licensed & Insured
  • 36+ Years Experience
  • Award Winning
  • Career Contractors
Wall Styles

Retaining Wall Design Options

From functional to stunning architectural features, we build retaining walls that solve problems and enhance landscapes

Stamped Stone Pattern concrete retaining wall example

Stamped Stone Pattern

Create the authentic look of natural stacked stone with stamped concrete at a fraction of the cost.

  • Natural stone look
  • Lower cost
  • Custom colors
  • Durable finish
Modern Concrete Walls concrete retaining wall example

Modern Concrete Walls

Clean, architectural look with a smooth finish, perfect for contemporary landscapes and modern home styles.

  • Sleek design
  • Easy to clean
  • Versatile color
  • Minimalist aesthetic
Integrated Seat Walls concrete retaining wall example

Integrated Seat Walls

Combine function and style with retaining walls that double as comfortable built-in seating.

  • Dual purpose
  • Extra seating
  • Entertainment ready
  • Space efficient
Terraced Multi-Level concrete retaining wall example

Terraced Multi-Level

Transform steep slopes into usable, attractive terraced spaces with multiple wall tiers.

  • Maximize space
  • Reduces erosion
  • Visual interest
  • Multiple zones
Planter Box Walls concrete retaining wall example

Planter Box Walls

Integrate planters into your retaining wall design for softened edges and lush landscaping.

  • Built-in planters
  • Softened appearance
  • Color contrast
  • Garden integration
Integrated Water Features concrete retaining wall example

Integrated Water Features

Design a stunning backyard centerpiece with a concrete wall engineered to create a custom waterfall, fountain, or pond.

  • Custom water walls
  • Soothing ambiance
  • Modern focal point
  • Engineered for water flow

Looking for a Concrete Wall Contractor?

Our experienced retaining wall contractors provide free site evaluations, expert design, and honest recommendations for new construction or repair projects.

Schedule a Free Consultation
The Concrete Advantage

Why Choose Concrete Retaining Walls

Designed for strength, built for beauty, designed to last a lifetime

Create Usable Space

Our retaining wall contractors transform unusable sloped yards into level, functional areas for patios, gardens, play areas, or parking.

Prevent Erosion & Damage

Stop soil erosion, protect foundations, and prevent downslope damage. A properly built retaining wall safeguards your property.

Increase Property Value

Working with professional retaining wall builders boosts curb appeal and property values by creating attractive, usable outdoor spaces.

Superior Durability

Concrete retaining walls last 50-100 years, far outlasting timber, block, or stone alternatives.

Drainage Solutions

Integrated drainage systems prevent water buildup and foundation issues while directing water away from structures and preventing standing water.

Architectural Beauty

Modern finishing options like stamping and staining create stunning architectural features that complement your landscape design.

Concrete vs. Timber vs. Block Walls

While timber walls rot in 7-15 years and block walls can shift and separate, properly constructed decorative concrete retaining walls last 50-100 years with minimal maintenance - the clear choice for lasting value and peace of mind.

Planning & Design

Retaining Wall Design Essentials

Expert guidance to ensure your retaining wall is both beautiful and built to last

Smart Design (Under 4 ft)

We specialize in landscape walls designed typically under 4 feet. This approach offers several key benefits for homeowners.

  • No Permit Hassles
  • Beautiful Design Options
  • No Complex Engineering or Permits
  • Terraced Walls with Multiple Tiers
  • Faster Installation

Drainage Systems

Critical for wall longevity. Proper drainage prevents hydrostatic pressure that causes wall failure.

  • Perforated drain pipes behind all walls
  • Gravel backfill for water flow
  • Weep holes to release trapped water
  • French drains for problematic areas
  • Proper grading directs water away

Design & Aesthetics

Transform functional walls into stunning landscape features that enhance your property's beauty.

  • Stamped patterns mimic natural stone
  • Integral colors complement your home
  • Decorative caps add finishing touches
  • Integrated planters soften appearance
  • Curved designs create visual flow

Integrated Features

Maximize functionality by incorporating additional elements into your retaining wall design.

  • Built-in seating for entertaining
  • Integrated lighting for safety and ambiance
  • Steps connecting different levels
  • Water features and fountains
  • Fire pit or fireplace integration

Let's Discuss Your Project

Our team of experts can help you design the perfect retaining wall for your home and budget.

Get a Free Consultation

Our Proven
Concrete Installation Process

From consultation to completion, every project follows our meticulous 5-step process - refined over 36 years and thousands of successful installations.

1

Consultation & Design

Your Vision, Our Expertise

On-site evaluation to assess drainage, soil, and design requirements. We finalize patterns, colors, and provide transparent pricing.

2

Site Preparation & Excavation

Foundation for Success

Excavate to proper depth, remove old materials, and establish precise grading for optimal drainage and long-term stability.

3

Forming & Reinforcement

Built to Last

Install custom forms for exact dimensions. Add commercial-grade rebar or mesh for superior crack resistance and structural integrity.

4

Professional Pour

Precision Matters

High-performance concrete mix engineered for Pacific Northwest weather, poured to exact specifications and consistent thickness.

5

Artisan Finishing

Craftsmanship Shows

Apply your chosen finish while concrete sets - stamped patterns, exposed aggregate, broom texture, or smooth trowel. This is where expertise creates beauty.

6

Curing & Final Inspection

Protected & Perfected

Proper curing for maximum strength, professional sealing when needed, form removal, and site cleanup. Final walkthrough ensures perfection.

Project Timeline

Most residential projects complete in 1-2 weeks, weather permitting.

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Our Work

Featured
Retaining Wall Projects

See why homeowners choose our retaining wall contractor services - beautifully designed walls walls built by trusted builders across Pierce & King County

View all concrete projects

Retaining Wall Contractor FAQ

Common questions about retaining wall construction, retaining wall repair, and working with professional retaining wall builders

01

How high of a retaining wall can I build without a permit?

In most Washington jurisdictions, you can build a retaining wall up to 4 feet high without needing a permit or costly engineering. Our company specializes exclusively in these non-permitted landscape walls. This saves our clients time and money while still solving slope and landscape issues beautifully.
02

Do you build structural retaining walls over 4 feet?

No, we do not. Our specialty is decorative and landscape walls (under 4 feet). Taller, structural walls require different engineering, permits, and construction methods. We are experts in creating beautiful, functional seat walls, garden walls, and planters that don't require that level of engineering.

03

Is a poured concrete wall cheaper than a block wall?

While DIY paver blocks might seem cheaper upfront, our professionally installed, solid concrete walls are often more cost-effective and provide superior long-term value. Poured concrete is stronger, won't have weeds growing through it, and won't shift or heave like individual blocks can over time.
04

What's the difference between a retaining wall and a garden wall?

A 'retaining wall' typically refers to a tall, structural wall (over 4 ft) engineered to hold back a significant amount of soil. A 'garden wall' or 'landscape wall' (our specialty) is a shorter wall designed for aesthetics. Common uses include raised planter boxes, seat walls for patios, and decorative landscape borders.
05

How long does a concrete wall last compared to a wood wall?

A poured concrete wall is a lifetime solution that can last 50-100 years. A timber or wood wall, by contrast, will begin to rot and fail in as little as 10-15 years, especially in the damp Pacific Northwest climate. Concrete is a permanent, low-maintenance investment in your property.
Service Areas

Serving Puyallup & Surrounding Areas

RC Concrete is a licensed concrete business that brings 36+ years of residential concrete contracting expertise to homeowners throughout Pierce and King County.

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Cities We Serve

  • Mercer Island
  • Auburn
  • Redmond
  • Kent
  • Renton
  • Kirkland
  • Federal Way
  • Surrounding areas

Not sure if we serve your area?

Call or Text

(253) 677-4136

Transform Your Property.

Get your free, no-obligation estimate today. We'll discuss your vision and provide expert guidance on your concrete project.

36+ Years in Business
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Licensed, Bonded, & Insured