Metro Vancouver’s unique landscape presents challenges such as sloped terrains, heavy rainfall, and urban density, making retaining walls an essential part of many properties. Whether to prevent soil erosion, create tiered gardens, or enhance curb appeal, Allan Block walls, a type of retaining wall, provide a durable and stylish solution. But what makes them the go-to choice for homeowners and contractors?

Allan Block walls are engineered concrete blocks designed for strength, flexibility, and long-term performance. They interlock seamlessly, allowing for fast installation and reliable structural integrity. With a variety of styles and colours, these walls blend functionality with modern aesthetics, making them ideal for Metro Vancouver properties.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits, durability, and applications of Allan Block walls and why they are one of the best retaining wall variants in landscaping. Keep reading to discover why Allan Block walls are a smart investment for your landscaping project.

What Are Allan Block Walls?

Allan Blocks are a type of engineered concrete block used primarily for building retaining walls and landscaping projects. They are designed for easy installation, offering a versatile and cost-effective solution for various outdoor structures. The 3 key features of Allan Blocks are:

  1. Interlocking Design: Allan Blocks are capable of interlocking with each other with a lip and a notch system. These blocks have a front lip and a bottom notch, which lock when you stack them on top of each other. They can also be stacked side by side as the back lip of the top block locks in with the notch on the bottom block.  
  2. Colour and Style Variety: Allan Blocks come in different styles and colours to match any landscape. Although different Allan blocks have different purposes, they are cross-compatible. So, you can mix and match them to your heart’s desire.
  3. Easy to Work With: As Allan Blocks interlock, they are easy and fast to install. They are durable, but should any cracks form on one, you can simply take it out and replace it.

Allan Blocks are an extremely popular alternative to traditional methods of building retention walls, thanks to their modular nature. But their true benefits go beyond these features, which we’ll now take a deeper dive into.

Top 7 Benefits of Allan Block Walls

Allan Block retention walls possess some extra qualities compared to traditional retention walls. Let’s explore the top 7 ones:

  1. Unmatched Durability: Allan Block walls are built to last. Made from high-quality concrete, they can withstand Metro Vancouver’s rainy winters and humid summers.
    So how long does Allan Block last? Allan Blocks installed in the 1950s are still functioning to this day. Blocks that have been made with modern manufacturing technology are promised to last a lifetime.
  2. Unparalleled Strength: Allan Block walls promise to meet the structural requirements of any retaining wall site. These blocks can be used to make walls up to 1 meter in clay soil and 1.5 meters in sandy soil without any further reinforcement. Although site and soil conditions can allow room for larger walls.
  3. Low Maintenance: One of the biggest selling points of Allan Block walls is their minimal upkeep. As the blocks are made from reinforced concrete, they resist rot, pests, and weathering. According to official statements, you only need to inspect them 4 times annually, and at least once after rain.
  4. Aesthetic Appeal: Allan Blocks come in different shapes, textures, and colours, so they can be mixed and matched to create attractive and multifunctional retaining walls. They are perfect for creating tiered gardens in Surrey backyards and adding a modern touch to Langley landscapes.
  5. Environmental Benefits: Allan blocks have two clever features that make them environmentally friendly. They have a hollow core that drains out the water, and the notches on the block automatically introduce a setback. The blocks make use of the surface tension of liquids to let the water seep out while protecting the soil. This advantage is essential for building retaining walls near waterways in Delta, and it supports sustainable landscaping practices imposed in Greater Vancouver.
  6. Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to traditional options, Allan Blocks cost a bit more. However, the durability of these blocks, the cost practically goes down to nothing in the long run.
  7. Easy Maintenance: Allan block retention walls are easy to repair. You can simply swap the damaged block with another one.

Allan Block walls combine strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making them a top choice for retaining walls. Their low maintenance and eco-friendly design make them ideal for various landscapes in Metro Vancouver. With long-lasting performance, they offer a cost-effective solution for any project. However, an Allan Block wall can only achieve its full capability when its set up by expert engineers.

Why Choose New Wave Earthworks for Your Allan Block Wall Project?

At New Wave Earthworks, we combine expertise with a commitment to quality. We have nearly a decade of experience working on civil, environmental, watershed, and landscape construction projects in Greater Vancouver. We understand client needs, and project demands, and only use the best materials available for affordable rates. 

Ready to get started? Contact New Wave Earthworks today for a consultation and see how Allan Block walls can transform your property. Call us at (604) 855-2603 or mail us at info@newwaveearthworks.com to get a free quote today!

Conclusion

Allan Block walls are more than just a practical solution—they’re an investment in your property’s future. From their durability and low maintenance to their aesthetic appeal, these walls are perfect for Metro Vancouver’s unique landscape.