Wood is the most economical choice for retaining wall construction. It's not as strong as stone or concrete, but can be just as aesthetically pleasing, offering a natural look and rustic appeal. Wood retaining walls are also easy and efficient to install.
Controlling the Height of the Wall
Adjusting the height of the retaining wall can lead to significant cost savings. In scenarios where it's feasible, reducing the height of the wall while allowing for a gentle slope can decrease the amount of materials needed and thus the overall expenses.
Concrete is one of the most popular materials for constructing retaining walls due to its cost-efficiency and durability. It is also easy to shape and can be used for various applications, making it an ideal choice for many kinds of jobs.
Rules of thumb commonly used by designers to establish the geometry of the wall include (refer to diagram): Base width = 1/2 to 1/3 of the height of the wall. Base thickness = 1/8 of the height of the wall but not less than 12 inches. Stem thickness = 6 inches + ¼ inch for each foot of wall height.
Not all retaining walls require footings. The need for a footing depends on factors such as wall height, soil conditions, and slope angle. Taller walls and those built on less stable soil generally require footings for added stability.
Concrete and Boulder Walls
Standing at the pinnacle of durability, poured concrete walls and boulder walls boast the longest lifespan. Their robustness ensures they can endure the test of time, often lasting 50 years and beyond.
More modern landscapes tend to favor straight retaining walls as the sleek, straight lines are likely to meld in well with the predominant look and feel of the yard. For more traditional yards or yards that emphasize more natural surroundings, a curved retaining wall could be a better option.
So, if soil and ground issues are not covered by homeowners insurance, are retaining walls covered by insurance? Because retaining walls are frequently considered a detached structure, damage to them can be covered under your homeowners policy under the right conditions.
Gravity retaining walls
They are the simplest and earliest recorded type of retaining wall. Built of concrete, masonry, brick, blocks or mass cast-in-situ concrete, these hard-wearing structures rely on their large weight to resist toppling and sliding caused by the lateral earth pressure from the soil behind them.
Most retaining walls cost $20 to $53 per square foot, with the average square foot cost being $33. To calculate a retaining wall's square footage, multiply its length (in feet) by its width (in feet). Please see typical pricing by size in the table below.
Unlike timber sleepers, concrete blocks won't rot or warp over time and are incredibly strong. Concrete blocks are also very versatile, great for DIY as they are easier to handle, quick to install and come in a range of sizes, colours and finishes. You can view our range of retaining wall blocks here.
Concrete is a common material for retaining walls because of its strength and durability. The typical lifespan of these walls is between 40 and 100 years, although they can persist for several decades.
Poured concrete is the strongest and most durable choice for retaining walls. It may also be carved and formed to look like mortared stone depending on your taste.
Another advantage to concrete block retaining walls is that they're easier to repair. Walls made of other materials, like poured concrete, generally must be replaced and made from scratch if damaged. With blocks, though, the wall can be disassembled and reinstalled with the existing materials being reused.
Soil saturation is the most common external factor that causes retaining wall failure, but there are many ways to prevent it.
The height and length of your retaining wall also affect the overall cost. Taller and longer walls require more materials and labor, increasing expenses. For the cheapest retaining wall, consider building a shorter wall or using terracing techniques to reduce the required height.
Stone and Concrete: Stone and concrete are among the most durable materials for retaining walls. Natural stone can last up to 100 years, while concrete blocks can also serve you well for decades. These materials are resistant to weathering and erosion, making them ideal for long-term use.
Absolutely! Even a 2-foot retaining wall needs an effective drainage system. Without it, water can build up behind the wall, leading to pressure that might cause the wall to lean or even collapse. All walls need systems to manage water effectively, preventing damage over time.
These blocks are versatile and strong, making them great for constructing walls, foundations, retaining walls, and more. They can also be used for landscaping projects such as edging or raised beds.
Excavation
Dig a trench for the bottom row of blocks. They should be buried about 1 inch deep for every 8 inches of wall height. This provides strength and stability to your retaining wall. Make sure that your trench is level and compacted.