Fencing on Retaining Walls: A Complete Guide for Edmonton Homes
/A retaining wall can solve a major landscaping or grading challenge, but it can also make a fence installation more complicated. If you want to add a fence above or beside an existing retaining wall, fencing on retaining walls requires careful planning to ensure the fence is properly supported without compromising the wall.
For Edmonton homeowners, this matters even more because fences must withstand changing weather, freezing temperatures, snow, and seasonal ground movement. The right fence installation method depends on the retaining wall, available space, fence design, and how the fence posts can be supported.
At Atlantic Fence, we specialize in chain link fencing for residential, commercial, and industrial properties throughout Edmonton. Since 1980, our team has handled fence installation, repairs, removal, and relocation, giving local property owners practical experience with different site conditions.
Can You Install a Fence on a Retaining Wall?
Yes, but the fence should not simply be attached to the top of a retaining wall without considering how it will be supported.
A retaining wall is designed to hold back soil, while a fence must withstand forces such as wind and everyday use. When a fence is installed directly on or close to a retaining wall, these two structures can interact.
Before installation, consider:
The material and construction of the retaining wall
The condition of the wall
The height and design of the fence
Available space for fence posts
Drainage around the wall
Soil conditions
Gate locations
Local fencing requirements
The right solution will depend on the property. A professional fence contractor can assess the site and determine whether the fence should be installed on the wall, behind it, or beside it.
Why Fencing on Retaining Walls Requires Extra Planning
A standard fence is usually supported by posts installed into the ground. A retaining wall changes the available space and can limit where posts can be placed.
There is also another important factor: wind.
A fence acts as a structure that can receive wind pressure. The taller and more enclosed the fence, the more attention should be given to its support system. Even a chain link fence needs properly supported posts and connections.
This is why installing a fence on a retaining wall is not simply a matter of drilling into the wall and attaching a post.
The condition and construction of the existing wall should be considered first.
Chain Link Fencing on Retaining Walls
For Edmonton homeowners, chain link fencing can be a practical option when a property includes a retaining wall.
Chain link has an open mesh design, which allows air to pass through the fence. It is also durable, versatile, and relatively low maintenance. These characteristics make it suitable for many residential properties in Edmonton.
Atlantic Fence specializes in chain link fencing and offers residential fence installation, repair, removal, and relocation services. The company also offers galvanized and powder-coated chain link options for homeowners looking for different appearances and levels of corrosion resistance.
However, the type of fence is only one part of the project. The way the fence posts are supported is equally important.
3 Ways to Approach a Retaining Wall Fence
The appropriate installation method depends on the property and retaining wall.
1. Install the Fence Behind the Retaining Wall
If there is enough usable ground behind the retaining wall, fence posts may be installed independently of the wall.
This can be a practical solution because the fence has its own support rather than relying entirely on the retaining wall.
However, the available space and soil conditions need to be checked before installation.
2. Install the Fence Beside the Retaining Wall
In some properties, the fence can be positioned beside the retaining wall rather than directly on top of it.
This approach can be useful when the wall should remain structurally independent from the fence.
The exact position will depend on the property layout, boundary lines, drainage, and available space.
3. Attach the Fence to a Suitable Existing Structure
Some retaining-wall systems may be capable of supporting a fence connection. However, this should be determined on a site-by-site basis.
Before drilling or anchoring anything, the construction and condition of the wall should be understood.
A fence contractor should also avoid interfering with drainage systems or other components that help the retaining wall function properly.
Check the Retaining Wall Before Installing a Fence
One of the most important steps is checking the existing retaining wall.
Look for signs such as:
Cracks
Leaning
Bulging
Loose blocks
Movement
Soil displacement
Water buildup
Poor drainage
Deteriorated materials
If the wall already appears unstable, installing a new fence should not be the first step.
Atlantic Fence focuses on fencing services rather than retaining-wall construction or structural repair. If the wall itself requires structural work, homeowners may need to have that issue addressed by an appropriate retaining-wall or structural professional before proceeding with the fence.
Once the wall is suitable for the project, a fencing contractor can focus on the fence design and installation.
Drainage Is Important
Retaining walls need appropriate drainage to manage water behind the structure.
Fence installation should therefore be planned carefully so that digging, post installation, or other work does not unnecessarily interfere with existing drainage.
This is particularly important in Edmonton, where snow and seasonal moisture can contribute to changing ground conditions.
Before installing the fence, identify where drainage systems, underground utilities, and other important features are located.
Choosing the Right Fence Height
Fence height is another important consideration when installing fencing near a retaining wall.
A fence installed above a wall effectively increases the overall height of the barrier. Depending on the property and location, local requirements may apply.
Atlantic Fence notes that Edmonton fence requirements can vary according to fence height and location, so homeowners should confirm the current requirements that apply to their property before starting construction.
It is also important to consider how the finished fence will look from both sides of the property.
Why Chain Link Works Well for Many Edmonton Properties
Chain link fencing is widely used for residential, commercial, and industrial applications because it offers a combination of durability, flexibility, and relatively low maintenance.
For a residential retaining-wall project, chain link can provide:
A clear property boundary
Security around the yard
Visibility through the fence
Low-maintenance performance
Flexible design options
Galvanized or powder-coated finishes
Atlantic Fence offers both galvanized and powder-coated chain link fencing, with powder coating available in several colours.
This gives Edmonton homeowners the option to choose a fence that works with the appearance of their property without moving away from a chain-link fencing system.
Residential Fencing on Retaining Walls
For homeowners, the goal is usually a combination of safety, security, privacy, and appearance.
A retaining wall may already separate two levels of a yard, making the addition of a fence useful for creating a safer boundary around the property.
For example, a homeowner may have:
A raised backyard
A sloped property
A retaining wall along the property line
A patio or landscaped area above the wall
A need for a secure boundary for children or pets
In these situations, the fence needs to follow the property's layout while maintaining proper support.
Atlantic Fence provides residential fencing solutions in Edmonton and can help homeowners determine an appropriate chain-link fencing option for their property.
Commercial and Industrial Retaining-Wall Fencing
Retaining-wall fencing is not limited to residential properties.
Commercial and industrial properties may have retaining walls around parking areas, loading areas, sloped sites, storage spaces, or perimeter boundaries.
In these applications, the fence may have additional security requirements.
Atlantic Fence provides commercial and industrial fencing solutions in Edmonton, including perimeter fencing and custom fencing applications. Its industrial fencing services include different pipe options based on project requirements.
For higher-security applications, Atlantic Fence also offers high-security fencing and metal cladding options that can be added to existing chain-link fencing in suitable situations.
What About Gates on Retaining Walls?
Gates require additional consideration.
A gate moves repeatedly and places different demands on its supporting posts compared with a standard fence section. This becomes particularly important when the gate is located close to a retaining wall.
Before installing a gate, consider:
Gate width
Gate weight
Post support
Available clearance
Ground slope
Retaining-wall location
Gate opening direction
Atlantic Fence also provides gate-related services, including gate operators and automatic gate opener installation for suitable applications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Attaching Posts Without Checking the Wall
A retaining wall may look strong but still have limitations. Do not assume that any wall can support a fence.
Blocking Drainage
Avoid installing posts or concrete where they could interfere with the wall's drainage system.
Ignoring Property Boundaries
A fence should be positioned according to the actual property boundary rather than simply following the retaining wall.
Choosing the Fence Before Assessing the Site
The available space and retaining-wall design can influence which fencing method is practical.
Installing a Fence on a Damaged Wall
If the wall is leaning, cracking, or moving, address the structural concern before installing the fence.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Professional help is particularly useful when:
The retaining wall is tall or complex
There is limited space for fence posts
The fence will be installed directly beside the wall
A gate is involved
The property has significant elevation changes
Drainage is present near the wall
The existing fence needs removal or relocation
You are unsure how the fence should be supported
A site assessment allows the fencing contractor to understand the property before recommending an installation approach.
Atlantic Fence offers free estimates and consultations and has been installing and servicing chain link fencing in Edmonton since 1980.
Fencing on Retaining Walls: What Edmonton Homeowners Should Know
The biggest takeaway is simple: the fence and retaining wall should be treated as related but separate parts of the project unless the structure has specifically been designed to support the fence.
A successful installation starts with understanding the existing wall, available space, drainage, fence height, and required support.
For Edmonton homeowners looking for a durable fencing solution, chain link is one option worth considering. Atlantic Fence specializes in chain-link fencing for residential, commercial, and industrial properties, along with fence repair, removal, relocation, powder coating, and high-security solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a chain link fence on top of a retaining wall?
It may be possible, but the retaining wall must be suitable for the proposed installation. The fence should have adequate structural support, and installation should not compromise the wall or its drainage.
What is the best fence for a retaining wall in Edmonton?
There is no single option for every property. Chain link can be a practical choice because it is durable, versatile, and available in galvanized and powder-coated finishes. The installation method is just as important as the fence material.
Can fence posts be installed behind a retaining wall?
If sufficient space and suitable ground are available, installing posts behind the wall may allow the fence to have independent support. The site should be assessed before digging.
Does Atlantic Fence install retaining walls?
Atlantic Fence specializes in fencing rather than retaining-wall construction. If your retaining wall needs structural repair or rebuilding, you should address that work with an appropriate specialist before proceeding with the fence installation.
Does Atlantic Fence install chain link fences in Edmonton?
Yes. Atlantic Fence has provided chain-link fence installation and related fencing services in Edmonton since 1980, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
Can Atlantic Fence repair an existing fence near a retaining wall?
Atlantic Fence provides chain-link fence repair services, including replacing damaged sections and addressing larger fence problems. A site assessment can help determine the appropriate repair approach.
Can I add a gate to fencing beside a retaining wall?
Yes, a gate can be incorporated into many fencing layouts, but the gate posts and available clearance need to be considered during planning.
Get Expert Fencing Help in Edmonton
A retaining wall does not have to prevent you from installing a secure, durable fence. The key is choosing an installation approach that works with the existing structure instead of putting unnecessary stress on it.
If you're planning fencing on retaining walls in Edmonton, Atlantic Fence can assess your fencing requirements and help determine a suitable chain-link solution for your property.
With more than 40 years of experience serving Edmonton, Atlantic Fence provides residential, commercial, and industrial fencing services, including installation, repairs, removal, relocation, powder-coated fencing, and high-security fencing.
Ready to discuss your fencing project? Contact Atlantic Fence for a free estimate and consultation
