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About Us

Family Owned, Field Proven

Retainers is a family-owned retaining wall company built on decades of hands-on experience with complex MSE and Keystone wall systems.

About Us

The People Behind Retainers

Retainers is a family-owned and operated retaining wall company built on decades of hands-on experience. Before starting Retainers, our team worked alongside some of the largest MSE retaining wall companies in California, gaining extensive knowledge in the design, installation, and construction of complex retaining wall systems.

Commercial-level expertise and quality, brought to residential and private projects.

We specialize in Keystone and MSE retaining walls, focusing on proper installation, durable solutions, and attention to detail on every job. Our goal is simple: build retaining walls the right way, using proven methods, quality materials, and the experience we have developed throughout our careers.

Juan Pablo Lara, owner of Retainers

Meet the Owner

Juan “Pablo” Lara

Owner & retaining wall specialist

Juan “Pablo” Lara is the owner of Retainers and a hands-on retaining wall specialist with decades of experience in the industry. He built his expertise working on complex MSE and Keystone retaining wall systems and brings that same care, knowledge, and attention to detail to every project he leads.

Recent Builds

Walls We Have Built

Hillside MSE Terrace — retaining wall in San Diego, CABackyard Grade Correction — retaining wall in El Cajon, CATimber Terrace & Planters — retaining wall in Poway, CAMulti-Lift Block Wall Build — retaining wall in Temecula, CAProperty Line Wall — retaining wall in San Diego County, CAHillside Trench & Base Course — retaining wall in Temecula, CATerraced Backyard Wall — retaining wall in San Diego, CAPool Yard Slope Support — retaining wall in Temecula, CADriveway Edge Wall — retaining wall in El Cajon, CA

Hillside MSE Terrace

San Diego, CA

Homeowner FAQ

Questions before you build

Straight answers about wall systems, permits, drainage and project timing.

What is the difference between an MSE and a wood retaining wall?

MSE walls use interlocking block, compacted backfill and geogrid reinforcement to create a durable system for larger grades and longer service life. Wood walls are a practical choice for smaller terraces, planters and modest slope corrections.

Will my retaining wall need a permit?

Permit requirements depend on the wall height, site conditions, location and local jurisdiction. We can help identify the requirements for your property and coordinate the right next steps before construction begins.

How long does a retaining wall project take?

Many residential walls take several days to a few weeks, depending on the size, access, excavation, drainage, reinforcement and inspection requirements. We provide a project-specific timeline after reviewing your site.

How do you keep water from building up behind the wall?

Proper drainage is part of the system, not an afterthought. Depending on the project, that can include drain rock, perforated pipe, filter fabric and carefully compacted backfill to manage water and pressure behind the wall.

Past Homeowners

Built well. Remembered well.

A few words from homeowners who trusted Retainers with their property.

“Pablo was clear, careful, and on top of every detail. Our wall looks great and feels built to last.”
Jasmine Trelenky
“From the first estimate to the final cap, the team communicated well and kept our project moving.”
Walter Hogan
“Professional work, solid craftsmanship, and a finished wall that completely changed our backyard.”
Charles Maneky