Retaining Wall
A retaining wall holds back soil on sloped ground using block, stone, timber, or poured concrete, with drainage built in behind it. Engineering and drainage are critical for taller walls, and it is priced per linear foot.
How retaining wall is done
- Assess the slope, soil, and load
- Excavate and compact a level base trench
- Lay a base course and check for level
- Build up courses with backfill and reinforcement
- Install drainage gravel and pipe behind the wall
- Cap the wall and backfill
What homeowners should know
- Ask whether your wall height requires engineering
- Confirm proper drainage is built behind the wall
- Compare block, stone, and poured options on cost and look
- Understand that failed drainage is the top cause of wall failure
- Check whether a permit is needed for the height
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Walls above a certain height usually require permits and engineering
- Drainage behind the wall prevents hydrostatic pressure failure
- Soil type and slope drive design and cost per linear foot
- Base preparation and compaction are essential for stability
- Material choice affects both appearance and price
Frequently asked questions
Does a retaining wall need engineering?
Walls above roughly four feet, or those holding significant loads, typically require an engineer and a permit; shorter walls often do not.
Why is drainage so important?
Water building up behind a wall creates pressure that causes bulging and failure, so gravel and drain pipe behind the wall are essential.
What material is best for a retaining wall?
Segmental block, natural stone, and poured concrete each balance cost, strength, and appearance differently; pricing is per linear foot.