Is your sloped yard washing away with every storm, or do you need solid support for a landscaping project? Choosing the right wall is crucial for your property’s stability and safety. Gravity walls rely on their own weight to hold soil back, while retaining walls are designed to handle heavier loads on steep slopes. Selecting the wrong type could result in costly damage.
Protect your property with expert masonry work—contact the top masonry contractor in New Orleans, LA, and get the job done right.
Phone: (504) 285-6050
Email: contact@neworleansmasonryla.com
What Is a Gravity Wall?
It relies solely on its own weight to hold back soil. These walls are constructed from heavy materials, such as concrete, stone, or brick. The base is usually thick, tapering toward the top, and uses gravity to resist the lateral pressure of soil pushing against it.
Ideal Use:
They are the best for shorter height applications (usually under 4 feet) and areas where soil pressure isn’t extreme.
Benefits:
- No need for reinforcements or anchoring
- Aesthetic options like stone veneer or natural finishes
- Cost-effective for small-scale projects
What Is a Retaining Wall?
It is a broader term that includes gravity walls, cantilever walls, anchored walls, and more. These walls are constructed to hold soil to a slope that it wouldn’t maintain on its own. They frequently need to be reinforced, especially if they are constructed on unstable ground or rise above a certain height.
Ideal Use:
They are perfect for hillside properties, waterfront lots, and larger structural applications where soil movement is a major issue.
Benefits:
- Supports taller and more complex installations
- Can incorporate reinforcement like geogrid or anchors
- Suitable for challenging terrain or heavy loads
Key Differences
Feature | Gravity Wall | Retaining Wall |
Structural Design | Uses sheer weight and mass to resist soil pressure | May include reinforcements like steel, anchors, or footings |
Height Capability | Best for low-height applications | Suitable for taller structures and heavy loads |
Material Options | Built from heavy materials like stone, concrete, or large bricks | Offers more flexibility—uses similar materials plus reinforcements |
Installation | Easier and quicker to install | Requires planning, design, and labor |
Cost | Cost-effective for small projects | Higher cost due to engineering and reinforcement |
Which One Is Right for Your Property?
When to Choose a Gravity Wall
✔ Small garden terraces
✔ Decorative borders
✔ Low-budget projects
When to Choose a Retaining Wall
✔ Steep slopes
✔ Large commercial projects
✔ High-pressure areas
How New Orleans Masonry Contractors Can Help
Whether you need a simple solution for your garden or a strong structure to protect your property from erosion, New Orleans Masonry Contractors can help you plan, design, and build it to last. Their expert team uses premium materials to build structures that complement the aesthetics of your property while also being practical.
Get A Free Quote Today!
📞 Call: (504) 285-6050
📧 Email: contact@neworleansmasonryla.com
How tall can a gravity wall be without reinforcement?
Typically, it should not exceed 4 feet without reinforcement. Taller structures require engineering support to handle soil pressure safely.
Which is better for flood-prone areas in New Orleans?
A reinforced retaining wall is usually better for flood-prone zones, especially when paired with proper drainage systems.
What materials are best for building gravity walls?
Concrete blocks, natural stone, and interlocking brick systems are commonly used due to their weight and durability.
Can retaining walls be customized for landscaping?
Yes, they can be integrated into landscape designs with steps, planters, lighting, and decorative finishes.
How long do these walls last?
With proper installation and drainage, both can last 50 years or more. Regular inspections and maintenance extend their lifespan.
