Retaining Wall & Hillside Stabilization Project in Mystic, CT

Our team was contacted by a client in Mystic, CT, who wanted to transform an unstable, eroding hillside into a fully functional and usable backyard space. They had been dealing with ongoing erosion issues and were unable to utilize their yard due to the steep grade and soil instability. So, we approached this project as a structural and stabilization solution rather than a basic landscaping project. The first step was to prepare the area, which involved excavation and rebuilding the base to ensure stability. Following that, a retaining wall was constructed to hold the hillside, along with riprap stone and drainage systems. We then finished the project with a final grading, topsoil application, and hydroseeding to grow new grass in the previously unusable space. With everything complete, our client now has a permanent erosion solution, more available land, and a structurally sound backyard they can enjoy for years to come.

The first step of this hillside stabilization project was to prep the area.

This hillside stabilization project was extensive and required thorough site preparation, so that was the first step. Our client's backyard had an unstable, eroding hillside, so our goal was to establish a solid, structurally sound base for the retaining wall. To do this, we began by excavating the area. However, we discovered a large sinkhole and unstable sandy soil during this, both of which would compromise the wall's structural integrity. Because of that, we excavated 3 feet deeper than planned, widened the trench from 1 foot to 5 feet, installed stabilization fabric and drive grid, and rebuilt the affected area to ensure full structural stability before continuing construction.

Another challenge we faced during site preparation was water flow from our client's gutters and runoff from the hillside, which posed a long-term risk to the structure. To address this, we installed drainage piping behind where the wall would go and buried gutter downspouts to redirect water away. Finally, we rebuilt the base for the retaining wall using angular stone and compacted lifts to create a completely new, stable foundation.

Next, the retaining wall and riprap stone were installed in our client's backyard.

After the site was prepared and foundational issues addressed, the next step was to install the retaining wall. We used Ideal Fat Face wall blocks, which are made of heavier, higher-density concrete for long-term durability. Additionally, geogrid reinforcement was incorporated to improve the retaining wall's structural integrity and prevent it from shifting and failing over time. It also features relief outlets through the wall face, which, when paired with the drainage piping behind it, eliminates hydrostatic pressure that can otherwise lead to blowouts or total collapse.

In addition to the retaining wall, we also installed riprap stone in our client's backyard to stabilize the slope and prevent washout. This comprehensive approach ensures the retaining wall's long-term performance and zero risk of failure, turning the previously unstable, eroding hillside into a structurally sound, level, and fully usable backyard.

The last step of this hillside stabilization project was to establish new grass via hydroseeding.

Once the main elements of this retaining wall and hillside stabilization project were complete, the last step was to beautify the area with new grass! Following a final grading to ensure a level space, we spread high-quality topsoil to create a nutrient-rich base before spraying our hydroseeding slurry across the newly flattened land atop the retaining wall. This mixture quickly adhered to the surface, keeping the seeds in place to establish fast, even grass growth. Within a few weeks, the grass began to grow, filling in the bare dirt with a new, beautiful lawn. Now, our client has increased usable outdoor space that boasts a clean, finished appearance, a permanent erosion solution, and improved drainage and water control.

Call us today to schedule any of our landscaping services!

Whether you're looking to create more flat, usable space on your property or address erosion issues, our team at American Ground & Snow Management is here to help! We offer a variety of landscaping services to meet all your needs, including land clearing, yard drainage, regrading, and hydroseeding, plus retaining wall installations. We have been in business since 2022, so we have the skills and experience to tackle even the most challenging projects, from hillside stabilization to everything in between.

We proudly serve residential and commercial property owners, as well as HOAs, in Mystic, CT, and throughout the surrounding areas, including Groton and Stonington. Give us a call at (860) 772-7808 to schedule any of our services today!