A steep, wooded backyard became two level terraces held by granite-face block retaining walls, with built-in steps and a turf putting green on the lower level.
The challenge: one long slope and no flat ground
This Tega Cay home sits on a steep, wooded lot below a screened porch. The backyard was one long slope, so there was nowhere flat to stand, play or relax, and runoff had nothing to slow it down.
The homeowners wanted usable levels they could walk between, and a fun feature for the finished space.
How we did it
- Excavate and grade. We cut the slope into two level platforms.
- Build the lower wall. Large granite-face segmental block, set on a compacted base and capped.
- Build the upper wall and steps. A second tier above, with block staircases built into both walls.
- Phase two. A pea gravel patio and an artificial turf putting green on the lower level.
Terraced walls can give you level, usable ground and a way to walk between it. Get a free on-site estimate.
Why two terraces instead of one tall wall?
Splitting a big grade change into two shorter walls gives you two usable levels instead of one, spreads the load, and is usually easier to build and drain than a single tall wall. Taller walls can also require an engineered design and a permit.
The finished backyard
The yard now steps down from the porch in two clean levels, with steps between them and a putting green at the bottom, instead of one slope nobody could use.
Want to see more? Browse before-and-after photos from all of our jobs in the CLT Pros project gallery.
Questions homeowners ask us
When does a retaining wall need an engineer?
It depends on the location, the wall system and what sits above the wall. In many areas, walls over about four feet need an engineered design and a permit. We will tell you what applies to your property.
Can you add a putting green to my backyard?
Yes. We build turf putting greens as stand-alone features or as part of a larger project. Read more about backyard putting greens.
Do terraced walls need drainage?
Yes. Each wall needs a way for water to drain out from behind it, which we build in as the walls go up.
How long did this project take?
The walls and the putting green were built in two phases between July and August 2026.
Related services
Terraced and segmental block wallsArtificial turf →
Lawns and putting greensTega Cay, SC →
Our work in Tega CayBackyard putting greens →
Turf greens for Charlotte homes
Get a free estimate for your sloped yard
Tell us a little about your project and we will set up a free on-site visit.
- We walk your property and talk through options
- Clear written quote, no pressure
- Owner-operated, fully insured, warranty-backed
Prefer to talk? Call (704) 778-6755
Serving Tega Cay, Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Indian Land and the Charlotte metro.
