Building the Perfect Retaining Wall for Your Pool: Strength, Beauty, and Expert Craftsmanship by Deloya Masonry

Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
Oct 27, 2025
5 min read

When it comes to designing your dream backyard, few features bring as much beauty and relaxation as a swimming pool. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that behind every stunning pool area lies a structure that makes it all possible — the retaining wall for pool.

A retaining wall doesn’t just hold back soil; it shapes the foundation of your outdoor living space, ensures safety, prevents erosion, and adds visual appeal to your pool design. In regions like Riverside and Los Angeles, where sloped lots and varied terrain are common, a professionally built retaining wall isn’t optional — it’s essential.

That’s where Deloya Masonry comes in. With years of experience building custom retaining walls for pools across Southern California, our team combines structural precision and design artistry to create outdoor spaces that stand the test of time.

A retaining wall for a pool in the backyard.

Why Your Pool Needs a Retaining Wall

If your pool is built on uneven ground, you’ll need a retaining wall to stabilize the area. Here are the main reasons homeowners in Riverside and Los Angeles invest in a retaining wall for pool:

1. Prevents Erosion and Soil Movement

Rain, irrigation, and pool splash-out can cause soil to shift, creating pressure behind your pool shell. A retaining wall keeps everything in place, protecting both your landscape and pool structure.

2. Manages Drainage and Runoff

Southern California occasionally faces heavy rain. A retaining wall, when built with proper drainage systems, helps divert water away from your pool and patio — preventing flooding, cracks, or standing water issues.

3. Adds Visual Interest and Structure

Beyond functionality, retaining walls bring layers and definition to your backyard. They can create raised garden beds, seating areas, or multi-level patios that enhance your pool’s visual impact.

4. Improves Safety

A well-built retaining wall also acts as a safety barrier. It can separate elevated areas from the pool deck and reduce the risk of landslides or collapsing soil near children and pets.

Choosing the Right Material for a Pool Retaining Wall

At Deloya Masonry, we guide every homeowner through material selection to match their vision and budget. Here are some of the best materials for pool retaining walls in California:

1. Concrete Block Walls

Durable, cost-effective, and easy to customize with stucco or stone veneer finishes. Concrete blocks offer excellent structural integrity, especially for higher or curved walls.

2. Natural Stone Walls

For homeowners seeking a luxurious and timeless look, natural stone is unmatched. Each stone adds character and texture, blending beautifully with Mediterranean, modern, or rustic pool designs.

3. Poured Concrete Walls

These provide a sleek, modern aesthetic with seamless strength. They’re great for contemporary backyards and can be finished with colored stains or exposed aggregate for extra flair.

4. Brick Retaining Walls

Brick is perfect for classic homes or landscapes where a cohesive, traditional look is desired. When combined with custom masonry detailing, it becomes a durable design statement.

5. Segmental Retaining Wall Systems

These interlocking block systems offer flexibility, quick installation, and reliable performance. They’re popular in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Design Considerations for Retaining Walls Around Pools

Building a retaining wall near a pool involves more than stacking materials. It’s about blending engineering precision with landscape harmony.

Drainage and Waterproofing

Proper drainage is critical. Without it, hydrostatic pressure can build up behind the wall, causing cracking or collapse. Deloya Masonry integrates drainage pipes, gravel backfill, and waterproof membranes to ensure long-term performance.

Wall Height and Structural Design

Depending on your yard’s slope, retaining walls can range from one foot to over six feet tall. Higher walls require deeper footings, reinforced steel bars, and sometimes permits. Our team handles every detail — from engineering plans to final inspection.

Aesthetic Integration

A retaining wall should complement your pool’s design, not distract from it. We align textures, colors, and materials to create a seamless look — whether you prefer modern concrete edges or natural stone terraces.

Lighting and Landscaping Features

Integrated lighting, planters, or waterfalls can transform a simple retaining wall into a backyard centerpiece. Many of our Riverside and Los Angeles clients choose to include built-in LED lights or cascading water features for added ambiance.

While pricing may vary, investing in a professionally built retaining wall for pool ensures long-term stability and safety — saving thousands in potential repairs down the line.

Local Factors: Building Retaining Walls in Riverside and Los Angeles

Southern California presents unique challenges — and opportunities — for pool construction. The area’s hilly terrain, clay soils, and seismic activity all influence how retaining walls must be built.

Soil and Slope Conditions

In Riverside, sloped lots are common, requiring reinforced masonry and proper grading. In Los Angeles, tight lot lines and existing structures often demand creative wall design and drainage solutions.

Permits and Local Regulations

Many cities require permits for retaining walls over 3–4 feet tall. At Deloya Masonry, we’re familiar with the building codes and inspection processes in both Riverside County and Los Angeles County, ensuring compliance from start to finish.

Climate and Aesthetics

Because Southern California enjoys year-round outdoor living, aesthetics matter. Our team helps homeowners choose materials and finishes that not only perform well in the dry, sunny climate but also elevate curb appeal.

Why Choose Deloya Masonry for Your Pool Retaining Wall

A retaining wall might be invisible when you’re enjoying your pool — but its quality determines everything from safety to beauty.

Here’s why homeowners trust Deloya Masonry across Southern California:

Expert Structural Knowledge – Our builders understand soil composition, hydrostatic pressure, and reinforcement requirements.
Custom Design Approach – Every wall is tailored to the home’s architecture and pool design.
High-Quality Materials – We source premium stone, concrete, and brick for long-lasting performance.
Local Experience – With deep roots in Riverside and Los Angeles, we know the terrain, building codes, and homeowner expectations.
Seamless Integration – From grading to finish work, we handle every detail with precision and pride.

Whether you’re building a new pool or remodeling an existing space, Deloya Masonry delivers craftsmanship that blends function, beauty, and durability.

Enhance Your Pool Area with Confidence

A retaining wall may not be the first feature you think about when planning your backyard, but it’s one of the most important. Done right, it protects your investment, improves safety, and adds long-term value to your home.

If you’re a homeowner in Riverside or Los Angeles looking to create a stunning and secure pool environment, Deloya Masonry is here to help. Our skilled team can design and build a retaining wall for pool that complements your style, supports your landscape, and lasts for decades.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and bring your vision to life — with the craftsmanship and integrity that define Deloya Masonry.