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Case Study: Stabilizing a Leaning Retaining Wall at FreeUp Storage Facility in Macon, GA

A paved alley by a chain-link fence and storage units with pink doors on a cloudy day.

At FreeUp Storage Facility in Macon, GA, a leaning retaining wall threatened the safety of the property, staff, and customers. The wall’s instability raised concerns about potential collapse and long-term structural damage.

AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists’ Auburn branch was brought in to deliver a long-lasting solution without interrupting day-to-day operations. By installing 122 helical wall anchors, the team stabilized the wall without requiring demolition—restoring both safety and peace of mind for the property owner.


The Challenge

  • Severely leaning and cracking retaining wall posing safety and liability risks
  • Potential for structural failure without intervention
  • Need for a non-disruptive solution to avoid interrupting facility operations

The Solution

  • Installation of 122 Helical Wall Anchors
  • Custom stabilization plan designed by AFS experts
  • Minimal excavation or demolition required for repair

The Impact

  • Wall fully stabilized and protected from future movement
  • Business operations continued uninterrupted
  • Long-term, warranty-backed structural solution

Before Foundation Repair:

A close-up of a concrete surface with a visible vertical crack and some white staining.

Structural Risk and Business Disruption Concerns

The retaining wall at FreeUp Storage Facility had begun to lean noticeably, raising red flags for both structural safety and liability. It also had noticeable cracks on the surface. Retaining walls are critical for holding back soil and protecting adjacent structures—and when they start to fail, the consequences can be severe. A full replacement would have meant significant downtime, high costs, and disruptions for both staff and customers. The property owner needed a permanent fix that wouldn’t interrupt business.

After Foundation Repair:

Brownish water flowing out of a pipe onto a dark, gritty surface near a concrete wall.

Precision Installation with Wall Anchors

Certified Field Inspector Tim Ridings developed a targeted repair plan centered around wall anchors—an efficient, low-impact solution designed for deep stabilization. AFS’s Birmingham crew, led by Foreman Victor Salgado, Co-Foreman Nate Pastrana, and Installer Lupe Silva, installed 122 anchors along the length of the retaining wall. These anchors reached deep into load-bearing soil, pulling the wall back into a stable position and halting any further movement.

A metal wall hook with a single screw is mounted on a rough, weathered concrete wall.

Efficient Execution, Zero Downtime

The installation required no major demolition, allowing storage facility operations to continue uninterrupted. The team’s careful planning and expert execution ensured a smooth, efficient process with lasting results.

Other Reviews for Our Foundation Repair Near You

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I had a great overall experience with Groundworks. When Chris came out to inspect my foundation he was super knowledgeable and honest about …

I had a great overall experience with Groundworks. When Chris came out to inspect my foundation he was super knowledgeable and honest about the condition both good and bad. He was super receptive to concerns and even made multiple trips out to my house to explain the process and make a plan that would work even though some of the spaces were non-ideal. Once we decided to go ahead with the project, Brogan, Aaron, and Caden were an awesome crew to have onsite. They were very respectful of my property and were fun to have around. They never hesitated to show me what they were doing or let me watch them work. They worked quick and had my project done in a timely manner. Once the work was complete they cleaned everything up and left my house in the same or often better condition than they found it. I would absolutely recommend Groundworks to anyone who has foundation concerns.

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We had the Groundwork’s team performing and encapsulation of our crawlspace. George and his team were amazing. They communicated well…

We had the Groundwork’s team performing and encapsulation of our crawlspace. George and his team were amazing. They communicated well worked hard and were clean George, Russell, Kade and Ethan are awesome.

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Basement waterproofing project was completed ahead of schedule and met all expectations. Cale, Shay, and Brandon left the work area cleaner …

Basement waterproofing project was completed ahead of schedule and met all expectations. Cale, Shay, and Brandon left the work area cleaner than it was when they arrived. Would definitely recommend.

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Cooper and Sam did an amazing job. Very thorough and CLEAN! They were both very informative about what they were doing and with what we…

Cooper and Sam did an amazing job. Very thorough and CLEAN! They were both very informative about what they were doing and with what we should expect after the work was done. Would highly recommend for foundation issues.

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Eric was a pleasant young man . Seems like he knows his job well.

Eric was a pleasant young man . Seems like he knows his job well.

Need Foundation Repair for Your Home?

Smiling worker in Groundworks uniform holding a level, standing in front of a company vehicle and houses.

The FreeUp Storage Facility avoided the cost and disruption of a full wall replacement thanks to AFS’s reliable repair methods. With the retaining wall now fully stabilized and the repair backed by a long-term warranty, the property owners gained peace of mind—and a safer, stronger facility. The project stands as a prime example of how commercial structural problems can be resolved efficiently, affordably, and without compromising operations. Contact AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists to schedule a free inspection!

Related Resources

Foundation Repair FAQs

Usually, wall anchors can be installed in about 1-2 days, and most projects only take a single day.

Our repair methods, such as polyurethane injection and helical piles, are designed to minimize disruption. We aim to complete most repairs efficiently to reduce the impact on your business.

Yes, foundation repair restores the stability and integrity of your building, preventing further damage. Solutions like helical piles and polyurethane injection provide long-lasting support for your foundation.