Article Image

Retaining walls are a vital addition for Burlingame homeowners looking to manage sloped yards, prevent erosion, and create functional outdoor spaces. In a city known for its hilly terrain and upscale suburban charm, a well-constructed retaining wall can enhance your property’s usability and aesthetic. Whether you’re in Burlingame Hills or Easton Addition, this expert-level DIY guide provides a step-by-step blueprint for building a retaining wall tailored to Burlingame’s coastal climate and soil conditions. We’ll cover planning, structural integrity, installation, and design ideas to ensure your wall is both durable and stylish.

Why Build a Retaining Wall in Burlingame?

Burlingame’s hilly neighborhoods and proximity to the San Francisco Bay make retaining walls essential for many properties. These structures offer:

  • Erosion Control: Burlingame’s loamy soils are prone to erosion during winter rains, and retaining walls stabilize the landscape.
  • Usable Space: Transform sloped areas into terraced gardens, patios, or seating areas, perfect for Burlingame’s outdoor lifestyle.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: A well-designed wall complements Burlingame’s mix of modern and traditional homes.This guide will help you build a retaining wall that withstands Burlingame’s conditions while adding value to your property.

Section 1: Purpose and Design

Purpose

Retaining walls prevent soil erosion and create flat, usable spaces for landscaping or outdoor living. In Burlingame, where slopes are common in areas like Burlingame Terrace or Mills Estates, retaining walls are critical for protecting your yard from runoff during heavy rains. They also allow you to carve out space for gardens, entertainment areas, or play zones, maximizing your property’s potential.

Material Choices

Choose materials that balance durability, cost, and Burlingame’s aesthetic:

  • Concrete Blocks: Affordable and versatile, ideal for modern homes in Burlingame Village.
  • Natural Stone: Offers a rustic, timeless look that suits traditional homes in Easton Addition.
  • Brick: Provides a classic appearance but may require more maintenance in Burlingame’s moist coastal climate.Select materials that resist UV exposure and moisture for long-term performance in Burlingame’s foggy, rainy winters.
Drainage Solutions

Burlingame’s loamy soils drain well but can still build pressure behind a wall if not managed:

  • Gravel Backfill: Place a 12-inch layer of gravel behind the wall to promote drainage.
  • Weep Holes: Install 3/4-inch holes every 4–6 feet to release water pressure.
  • Drainage Pipes: Use perforated pipes at the base to redirect water, especially for taller walls in hilly areas.
Local Regulations

In Burlingame, retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from the bottom of the footing) require a permit from the City of Burlingame’s Building Division. Check setback requirements and consult a structural engineer for walls exceeding 4 feet to ensure compliance. Visit burlingame.org for permit details.

Section 2: Structural Integrity

A retaining wall’s strength depends on a solid foundation and proper reinforcement, especially in Burlingame’s loamy soils and moist climate.FoundationA stable base prevents settling and cracking:

  • Dig a trench 12–18 inches deep and 24 inches wide for walls up to 4 feet tall.
  • Fill with 6–12 inches of compacted gravel (3/4-inch minus) to create a firm foundation.
  • Use a plate compactor to ensure a level base, checking with a 4-foot level to account for Burlingame’s soil drainage and coastal moisture.
Reinforcement

For walls over 3 feet, reinforcement enhances stability:

  • Geogrid Fabric: Lay geogrid every 2–3 courses, extending 3–4 feet into the backfill to anchor the wall.
  • Steel Reinforcement: For concrete block walls, consider rebar or wall ties for added strength.
  • Incorporate a slight backward lean (batter) of 1 inch per foot of height to resist soil pressure.
Safety Tips
  • Call 811 at least 72 hours before digging to locate underground utilities.
  • Wear safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots.
  • Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury when handling heavy blocks or stones.

Section 3: Installation Steps

Follow these steps to build a retaining wall that lasts in Burlingame:

1. Site Preparation
  • Mark the Layout: Use stakes and string to outline the wall’s path, creating a straight or gently curved design to complement Burlingame’s hilly landscapes.
  • Excavate: Dig a trench 12–18 inches deep, accounting for loamy soil drainage and coastal moisture. Slope the trench slightly (1–2%) for water runoff.
  • Check Alignment: Use a laser level or string line to ensure the trench is level and straight.
2. Base Layer
  • Fill the trench with 6–12 inches of gravel, compacting in 2-inch lifts with a plate compactor.
  • Check for level using a 4-foot level, adjusting as needed for a flat base.
  • Add a 1-inch layer of coarse sand for fine leveling if using concrete blocks.
3. Block or Stone Installation
  • Lay the first course of blocks or stones on the compacted base, ensuring each piece is level front-to-back and side-to-side.
  • Stagger joints in subsequent courses for strength, using construction adhesive for concrete blocks or mortar for natural stone.
  • Install drainage pipes behind the first course, sloping them to direct water away from the wall.
4. Backfill and Finishing
  • Backfill with 12 inches of gravel behind the wall, compacting lightly to avoid shifting blocks.
  • Add geogrid fabric every 2–3 courses for walls over 3 feet, securing with soil.
  • Fill remaining space with native soil, compacting in 6-inch lifts.
  • Cap the wall with decorative capstones or flat stones, securing with adhesive for a polished finish.

Section 4: Design Ideas for Burlingame

Your retaining wall should enhance Burlingame’s upscale coastal aesthetic:

  • Modern Simplicity: Use sleek, gray concrete blocks for a clean look, perfect for contemporary homes in Burlingame Village. Pair with minimalist landscaping like succulents or agave.
  • Rustic Charm: Choose natural stone with irregular shapes for a timeless vibe, ideal for traditional homes in Easton Addition. Add native plants like lavender or ceanothus for a cohesive design.
  • Functional Terraces: Create multi-level terraces for gardens or seating, enhancing sloped yards in areas like Burlingame Hills.
  • Eco-Friendly Accents: Plant drought-tolerant natives like California poppies or manzanita along the wall’s base for a low-maintenance, water-wise design that aligns with Burlingame’s sustainable ethos.

Consider adding low-voltage LED lighting to highlight the wall’s texture and improve safety for evening use, perfect for Burlingame’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle.

Constructing a retaining wall in Burlingame is a rewarding DIY project that enhances your property’s functionality and beauty. By prioritizing a strong foundation, effective drainage, and thoughtful design, you can create a wall that withstands Burlingame’s loamy soils and coastal climate while complementing its upscale charm. Whether you’re aiming for a modern masterpiece or a rustic retreat, this guide equips you to succeed.

Start your project today and transform your Burlingame yard into a stable, stunning landscape!Planning a retaining wall in Burlingame? Comment with your questions, and our team at Bayside Pavers will help you get started!

Schedule Design Consultation
Schedule Design Consultation

Latest news and resources

Schedule Free Design Consultation

Fill out the form below to continue scheduling

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

<iframe id="form-Acuity" src="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=14814513&ref=embedded_csp" title="Schedule Appointment" width="100%" height="800" frameBorder="0"></iframe><script src="https://embed.acuityscheduling.com/js/embed.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

I cant saw enough about Bayside Pavers! The reason I ultimately chose Bayside was the passion & enthusiasm.
-
Shelley B
,
They were professional, friendly, and did excellent work. The patio looks great!
-
Arlene R
,
I COULD NOT HAVE ASKED FOR MORE!
-
Jason B
,
Bayside Pavers did an amazing job on my property. Their crew was punctual and worked diligently to complete the project ahead of schedule. The new parking lot looks great, and I've received numerous compliments from my clients.
-
Chris L
,
I was impressed by the professionalism of the Bayside Pavers team. They were knowledgeable and helped me choose the right materials for my project. The end result exceeded my expectations, and I would definitely hire them again.
-
Emily D
,
From start to finish, my experience with Bayside Pavers was excellent. They provided a clear estimate, worked within my budget, and delivered on time. The new walkway looks fantastic and has added so much value to my home.
-
Michael J
,
Bayside Pavers transformed my backyard into a beautiful outdoor space. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction is truly commendable. I love the new patio and can't wait to host my friends and family!
-
Jane M
,
I recently had my driveway paved by Bayside Pavers, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The team was professional, efficient, and the quality of work was outstanding. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for paving services.
-
John S
,

We are a small, dynamic team of the best designers, project managers & construction crews in the Bay Area. We pride ourselves on efficiency, beautiful design & streamlined construction and exceptional communication.

Areas of service
Walnut Creek
Danville
San Ramon
Blackhawk
Alamo
Concord
Atherton
Palo Alto
Portola Valley
Saratoga
Los Altos
Los Gatos
Lafayette
Orinda
Moraga
Cupertino
Mountain View
San Jose
Petaluma
Santa Rosa
Rohnert Park
Windsor
Healdsburg
Sonoma
Oakland
Fremont
San Mateo
Berkeley
Livermore
Pleasanton
Redwood City
San Carlos
Hillsborough
San Francisco
Daly City
Burlingame
5039 Commercial Circle, Concord, CA 94520
© 2025
All Rights Reserved. Sitemap, Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
Lic CA
933786
//