When considering a retaining wall, the default choice across the UK often leans toward a traditional masonry structure. It’s a long-standing, trusted method - familiar to engineers and builders.
But what if there’s a faster, safer, and more cost-effective alternative?
That’s where Colinwell’s Allan Block segmental retaining wall system comes in.
Allan Block offers a superior alternative to traditional masonry that delivers outstanding performance with significantly lower costs - without compromising on strength or design flexibility. Backed by BBA / HAPAS certification and supported by decades of proven results, it’s quickly becoming the smarter choice for a wide range of projects.
While the decision between masonry and segmental systems may seem complex, advances in segmental retaining wall technology, like Allan Block has bridged the gap. Today, Colinwell’s Allan Block doesn’t just match the durability of masonry; in many applications, it outperforms them, offering a more compelling, cost-effective and aesthetically versatile solution.
What’s the Difference?
Traditional Masonry Retaining Walls
Masonry walls are built using mortar-laid blocks, often reinforced with concrete and steel. While still widely used, they’re labour intensive and rigid in design. Their value lies in architectural uniformity and long-term structural strength, but they come with higher material and installation costs.
Segmental Allan Block Retaining Walls
Segmental systems, like Colinwell’s Allan Block, use dry-laid, interlocking concrete blocks to build gravity or reinforced walls. These walls are engineered for long-term performance, while offering faster, more flexible and more cost-efficient installation.
At Colinwell, we focus exclusively on segmental Allan Block retaining wall systems because we believe Allan Block offers the best balance of strength, efficiency and adaptability for today’s projects.
Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Factor |
Traditional Masonry |
Colinwell’s Allan Block |
|
Installation |
Mortar-laid, slower |
Dry-laid, fast, clean and efficient |
|
Labour & Cost |
High – skilled labour, longer time |
Lower – faster build, fewer resources |
|
Design Flexibility |
Rigid, less adaptable |
Modular blocks, curved walls, multiple setback options |
|
Structural Capability |
Strong, but often over-specified |
High – especially when reinforced with Geogrid or no-fines concrete |
|
Aesthetic Range |
Uniform look, but limited variation |
Five modern colour options with chamfered anti-climb edges |
|
Sustainability & Waste |
More material waste, energy-intensive |
Less waste, efficient use of concrete |
|
Certifications |
Project-specific |
BBA/HAPAS approved for roads and infrastructure |
What Makes Allan Block Better?
Colinwell’s Allan Block system isn’t just a segmental wall, it’s a smarter, certified alternative to traditional methods, trusted on everything from small garden walls and tall residential retaining structures to major infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland.
A Smarter Way Forward for Retaining Walls
Traditional masonry has its place, but it’s often over specified and over engineered for applications that don’t demand it.
That’s where Colinwell’s Allan Block system comes in. It’s a modern retaining wall solution that’s engineered for performance, proven through certification and designed with cost-efficiency and flexibility in mind.
And because it’s backed by the global expertise of Allan Block US and delivered locally by Colinwell, you get world-class technology with hands-on, local support.
Need Advice for Your Project?
We don’t just sell retaining wall blocks. We work with engineers, contractors, and designers to solve problems, reduce costs and get projects delivered on time.
Contact our team today for:
© 2025 Colinwell Masonry | Design by The Web Bureau