Stone Wall Construction

Stone Wall Construction

From Chestnut Hill’s Wissahickon schist to Main Line bluestone, we build walls that define spaces without dominating them. Dry-laid or mortared, our walls incorporate proper drainage and frost footings—critical in a city where improperly built walls heave after just two winters.

For sloped lots in Roxborough, we design gravity walls with battered faces for stability. In suburban areas like Gladwyne, we match estate-style ashlar patterns using locally quarried stone. Every project begins with soil testing—Philadelphia’s mix of clay and shale requires different base prep than sandy shore soils.

Our Process

  1. 01 Step 1: Excavate to stable subsoil (minimum 36" in Philly)
  2. 02 Step 2: Compact gravel base with perforated drain pipe
  3. 03 Step 3: Lay stone with staggered joints and proper batter
  4. 04 Step 4: Backfill with drainage stone to prevent hydrostatic pressure

Benefits

  • Increases usable yard space on slopes
  • Reduces erosion during heavy rains
  • Adds timeless curb appeal
  • Outlasts timber retaining systems 3:1

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you match my existing stone wall?

We maintain relationships with local quarries—if the stone is still available, we’ll source it.

How do you prevent ice damage?

Do walls require maintenance?

Dry-stack walls need occasional weed removal; mortared walls should be inspected for cracks every 3-5 years.