When a retaining wall starts cracking, leaning, or separating, it’s a sign that the wall is failing from the inside. Paramount Concrete & Hardscapes helps homeowners throughout Knoxville and surrounding areas rebuild retaining walls the right way — with proper drainage, compaction, and reinforcement that ensure long-term stability.

Why Retaining Walls Fail

Most retaining wall failures aren’t caused by age — they’re caused by improper installation.
Common issues include:

• Lack of drainage: Hydrostatic pressure builds behind the wall, pushing it forward or causing collapse.

• Poor compaction: Soft or unprepared soil allows shifting and settling.

• Missing reinforcement: No geogrid or rebar to tie the wall back into the slope.

• Improper materials: Walls built with timber or low-quality block systems degrade over time.

Unfortunately, once these problems develop, repairs usually aren’t a long-term solution — especially when the base or drainage system is compromised.

When a Wall Can’t Be Repaired

In most cases, true “repair” isn’t possible because the failure goes deeper than surface cracks. Rebuilding the wall ensures proper footing, drainage, and reinforcement from the start.
Replacement is usually necessary when:

• The wall has leaned or bulged outward.

• Cracks run through multiple blocks or sections.

• Water seeps through or pools behind the wall.

• The original materials are no longer available for matching.

• The soil has shifted or eroded behind the wall.

Our team evaluates the damage and provides a replacement plan that meets current standards for safety and drainage.

Our Retaining Wall Replacement Process

1. Assessment & Planning – We evaluate your property’s slope, soil, and drainage conditions.

2. Demolition & Excavation – The failing wall is safely removed, and the area is regraded for stability.

3. Base Preparation – A compacted gravel base is installed for proper load support.

4. Drainage System Installation – Washed-stone backfill and perforated drain pipes are added behind the wall.

5. Wall Construction – New wall systems are built with quality materials like Keystone or Belgard, using proper geogrid reinforcement.

6. Finish & Cleanup – We ensure alignment, drainage outlets, and caps are perfect before final sealing and cleanup.

Signs You May Need a Replacement Wall

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to consider replacement:

• Gaps forming between blocks or layers

• Tilting or leaning sections

• Bowing or bulging in the middle

• Cracking or separation at corners

• Erosion or washout at the base after rain

Addressing these signs early can prevent soil movement or property damage.

Materials & Systems We Use

Paramount builds with top-tier wall systems designed for Knoxville’s soil and rainfall conditions, including:

• Keystone retaining wall systems

• Belgard block and caps

• Poured concrete and reinforced hybrid walls

• Natural stone and veneer-faced options

All materials are chosen for strength, appearance, and long-term reliability.

Why Replacement is the Smart Choice

While small cosmetic fixes may seem easier, rebuilding your retaining wall properly ensures:

• Correct drainage that prevents future failure

• Reinforced structure that lasts 30+ years

• Visual improvement and added property value

• Peace of mind during heavy rains or soil movement

Investing in a proper replacement saves time and money over repeated patch repairs.