Concrete Footings & Retaining Walls

Essential Structural Support Systems

Concrete footings and retaining walls serve critical structural and functional roles in residential and commercial properties. At Skybridge Hudson Concrete, we design and install these systems to meet engineering requirements while addressing site-specific challenges. Footings distribute building loads to the soil, preventing settlement and structural damage. Retaining walls hold back soil on sloped properties, creating usable level areas and preventing erosion. Our team has the technical expertise to evaluate site conditions, determine appropriate solutions, and execute installations that provide lasting performance and stability.

Concrete Footing Installation

Footings form the foundation beneath foundation walls, columns, and other structural elements. Proper footing design and installation are essential for structural integrity. Our footing services include:

• Continuous wall footings for foundation support
• Isolated pad footings for columns and posts
• Grade beam footings for slab-on-grade construction
• Stepped footings for sloped sites
• Frost-protected footings designed for local climate
• Reinforced footings for heavy load applications
• Footings sized according to soil bearing capacity

Retaining Wall Design and Construction

Retaining walls must withstand significant lateral soil pressure while providing long-term stability. We install various retaining wall systems depending on height, soil conditions, and aesthetic preferences. Our retaining wall work includes engineering analysis to determine wall requirements, proper drainage systems to relieve hydrostatic pressure, reinforcement appropriate for wall height and loading, and durable construction methods for lasting performance. We build poured concrete walls, concrete block walls with reinforcement, and segmental retaining wall systems. Each approach offers specific advantages for different applications.

Site Evaluation and Engineering

Successful footing and retaining wall projects begin with thorough site evaluation. We assess soil type and bearing capacity, existing grade and drainage patterns, proximity to existing structures, and anticipated loads and pressures. For walls over certain heights or in challenging conditions, we work with structural engineers to develop appropriate designs. This professional approach ensures installations meet safety requirements and perform as intended. Our experience with Hudson area soil conditions helps us anticipate and address potential challenges.

Drainage and Waterproofing

Proper drainage is critical for retaining wall longevity and performance. Water buildup behind walls creates hydrostatic pressure that can cause failure. We install comprehensive drainage systems including perforated drain pipes at wall base, gravel backfill for water movement, weep holes for pressure relief, and waterproofing membranes on wall backs. These measures direct water away from walls and prevent pressure buildup. We also ensure surface water is directed away from wall tops to minimize water infiltration.

Applications and Benefits

Retaining walls solve numerous property challenges while adding functional space and visual interest. Common applications include creating level yards on sloped properties, preventing soil erosion on hillsides, supporting driveways and parking areas, defining landscape beds and terraces, and protecting structures from soil movement. Well-designed retaining walls enhance property usability and value while providing essential erosion control and structural support.