Calgary, Alberta – Calgary homeowners seeking retaining wall solutions can now access expert guidance from Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes. Choosing the right contractor for retaining walls is essential to prevent structural issues, soil erosion, and costly repairs. A skilled team delivers walls that are durable, functional, and visually appealing, meeting the demands of Calgary’s unique climate and terrain. This press release outlines seven red flags homeowners should watch for when selecting a retaining wall contractor.
Choosing a Retaining Wall Contractor: 7 Red Flags to Avoid
1. Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance
Licensed contractors follow Alberta regulations, meet safety requirements, and carry bonding to protect property and workers. This certification confirms that the team has passed inspections and training, reducing the likelihood of construction errors. Hiring an unlicensed contractor shifts liability to the homeowner. Accidents, property damage, and code violations could result in unexpected costs. Properly licensed teams handle construction according to local standards, minimizing risks.
2. No Proven Retaining Wall Experience
Contractors with experience understand soil types, slope management, and drainage impact. This knowledge ensures the wall remains stable over time. Homeowners should review portfolios, visit previous projects, and contact references. Seeing completed work firsthand and speaking with past clients confirms skill, reliability, and the ability to deliver high-quality results. Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes has over 20 years of experience building brick walls, wood retaining walls, and boulder walls in Calgary.
3. Poor Material Quality
Durable materials are essential for retaining walls. Brick walls offer longevity and a traditional look. Wood retaining walls provide natural appeal when properly treated, while boulder walls support steep slopes and add texture. Substandard materials can warp, crack, or shift, reducing both safety and aesthetics. Walls built with inferior materials often require early repairs, increasing maintenance costs and accelerating erosion. High-quality bricks, treated wood, or solid boulders produce walls that remain stable and attractive for decades.
4. Unclear or Missing Written Estimates
Written estimates outline labour, materials, and timelines. They provide homeowners with clear expectations and allow comparisons between contractors. Vague or incomplete estimates may indicate inexperience or poor organization. Transparent and itemized quotes reflect professionalism and attention to detail, helping homeowners track the project and avoid unexpected costs.
5. Lack of Warranty or Guarantees
Most professional contractors offer a warranty covering labour and materials, typically for 1–2 years. This protects homeowners against early settling, cracking, or material defects. Without a warranty, repairs fall entirely on the property owner, and premature deterioration can create unexpected expenses. Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes provides a 2-year warranty on all brick, boulder and wood retaining walls.
6. Poor Communication or Customer Service
Delayed or unclear responses indicate poor service. Contractors who communicate consistently keep homeowners informed and prevent misunderstandings. Miscommunication may cause delays, errors, or additional costs, while prompt updates and clear explanations help projects progress smoothly from start to finish.
7. No Local References or Calgary-Specific Knowledge
Calgary’s soil, slopes, and seasonal climate affect wall stability. Contractors familiar with local conditions build walls that resist shifting, erosion, and freeze-thaw damage. Visiting completed projects or speaking with nearby clients provides evidence of workmanship and ability to handle Calgary-specific challenges. Local experience improves wall durability and appearance.
Why Choose Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes
Expertise and Local Experience
Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes has over 20 years of experience in Calgary, specializing in brick walls, wood retaining walls, and boulder walls. Their team adapts each project to the site’s terrain and aesthetic goals, producing functional and attractive installations.
Accredited and Reliable Services
The company is fully licensed, insured, WCB compliant, and Alberta Bonded. Clear estimates and a 2-year warranty support long-term results and provide homeowners with confidence in the construction process.
Quality Materials and Skilled Installation
Trained crews select durable bricks, treated wood, and solid boulders. Each retaining wall is built to withstand local weather and support long-term stability. Completed residential and commercial projects highlight the company’s consistent delivery of functional and visually appealing walls.
Start Your Retaining Wall Project Today
Calgary homeowners can contact Assiniboine Lawns & Landscapes at (403) 301-3300 or [email protected]. With expertise in brick, wood, and boulder walls, the team delivers strong, attractive, and long-lasting retaining wall solutions that enhance both functionality and landscape beauty.
