Engineered Structural Walls

Why Engineered Structural Walls Are Vital in St. Louis: Local Challenges

St. Louis’ unique geography, climate, and urban growth create specific demands for engineered structural walls. These walls are essential for managing significant loads, preventing erosion, and ensuring long-term property stability.

• Challenging Terrain: St. Louis’ hilly landscapes, especially in West County and along the Mississippi River bluffs, feature steep slopes and unstable clay soils. Engineered walls provide the strength needed to stabilize these areas, preventing landslides and soil displacement.
• Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: With 41 inches of annual rainfall and 20% of St. Louis in FEMA flood zones (per 2025 data), areas like Valley Park and Maryland Heights face significant runoff risks. Engineered walls with advanced drainage systems mitigate water pressure and protect foundations.
• Urban Development Pressures: St. Louis’ growth, with new developments in areas like Ballwin, increases soil disturbance and erosion. Engineered walls support infrastructure for homes, commercial properties, and public spaces.
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Missouri’s winter freezes and spring thaws weaken soil stability, causing shifts that standard walls can’t handle. Engineered designs account for these cycles, ensuring durability.

Without properly engineered walls, properties risk foundation cracks, flooding, or costly landscape damage. RWPS LLC builds walls that comply with St. Louis County codes and IBC (International Building Code) standards, tailored to our region’s conditions.

Our Engineered Structural Wall Services: Designed for St. Louis

RWPS LLC offers end-to-end services for engineered structural walls, from site analysis to construction, using materials and techniques optimized for St. Louis’ environment. Our licensed contractors and engineers ensure every project is safe, compliant, and visually appealing.

Site Analysis & Engineering Design

Precision starts with understanding your property’s unique needs.

• Services:
  • Geotechnical assessments to evaluate soil composition, slope stability, and load requirements.
  • Custom engineering plans by licensed structural engineers, meeting IBC and local codes.
  • 3D modeling for visualization and precise planning.
• St. Louis Perk: Accounts for local loess and clay soils, prone to shifting in areas like Kirkwood.

Engineered Wall Construction

We build walls designed to withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions.

• Services:
  • Construction of reinforced concrete, segmental block, or gabion walls for maximum strength.
  • Installation of deep foundations (e.g., helical piles) for high-load applications.
  • Integration of advanced drainage systems (e.g., geogrids, perforated pipes) to manage water pressure.
• St. Louis Perk: Built to endure Missouri’s freeze-thaw cycles and heavy spring rains, common in Florissant.

Wall Repair & Reinforcement

Damaged or outdated walls? We restore and upgrade them to modern standards.

• Services:
  • Repairing cracks, bowing, or settlement issues due to soil movement or poor initial design.
  • Retrofitting with anchors or tiebacks for added stability.
  • Upgrading drainage to prevent future water damage.
• St. Louis Perk: Addresses issues from clay soil expansion, prevalent in Webster Groves.

Drainage & Erosion Control Integration

Effective drainage is critical for structural wall performance.

• Services:
  • Installing French drains, weep holes, and gravel backfill to divert water.
  • Grading and terracing to manage runoff and enhance stability.
  • Regular maintenance to ensure drainage systems remain clear.
• St. Louis Perk: Tailored for St. Louis’ high rainfall and flood-prone areas like Maryland Heights.

Aesthetic & Functional Enhancements

Our walls are both strong and beautiful, enhancing your property’s value.

• Services:
  • Incorporating decorative finishes like natural stone or textured concrete.
  • Adding integrated seating, planters, or lighting for multi-functional spaces.
  • Coordinating with landscaping for seamless outdoor designs.
• St. Louis Perk: Perfect for creating usable spaces in hilly areas like Wildwood or historic Soulard.

Every project includes:

• Free site evaluation and engineering consultation.
• Full compliance with St. Louis County and municipal regulations.
• 10-year labor warranty and material-specific durability guarantees.
• Eco-friendly practices, using sustainable materials when possible.

Benefits of Professional Retaining Wall Construction

Choosing RWPS LLC for your retaining wall project delivers measurable value for your St. Louis property:

• Erosion and Flood Protection: Properly built walls reduce soil loss by 90% and protect against water damage, critical in St. Louis’ rainy seasons.
• Increased Property Value: Well-designed walls boost curb appeal and usable yard space, adding 10-15% to home value, per local MLS data.
• Structural Safety: Engineered walls prevent foundation issues, saving thousands in potential repairs.
• Low Maintenance: Our drainage systems and durable materials minimize upkeep, ideal for busy families in Clayton or St. Charles.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Transform sloped yards into terraced patios or gardens, enhancing outdoor living in neighborhoods like Tower Grove.

Our Engineered Wall Construction Process

Our approach to engineered wall construction involves:​

Comprehensive Evaluation: Assessing terrain, soil composition, drainage patterns, and client preferences.

​Client Collaboration: Listening to preferences, concerns, and project objectives to incorporate into planning.

​Expert Analysis: Assessing feasibility considering load-bearing requirements, wall height, and optimal placement.

​Tailored Solutions: Crafting recommendations for optimal design, material selection, and construction techniques.

​Precision Construction: Executing construction with high-quality materials and industry best practices.

Why Choose Retaining Wall & Paving Solutions

• Expertise: With years of experience in the industry, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle a wide range of retaining wall projects, from residential gardens to commercial landscapes.
• Quality Materials: We use premium quality materials for our retaining wall installations, ensuring longevity and durability for your landscape.
• Custom Solutions: Every landscape is unique, and we offer customized retaining wall solutions tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
• Professional Installation: Our team is trained in the latest installation techniques, ensuring accurate and efficient installation of your retaining wall.
• Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations with every project we undertake.​
• Licensed Engineer:  Our in-house engineer ensures that each structure meets local building codes, zoning regulations, and site-specific requirements. 
• 10-Year Warranty: Every retaining wall installed by RWPS comes backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty, giving you peace of mind long after the final stone is set.

NCMA-Certified Installers

Our installers are NCMA certified. Learn more about NCMA certification.