A collection of garden retaining walls and terraced gardens both residential and public.- Advertisement -

Terrace gardens date back to ancient times, and are still a beautiful butrarely seen luxury in modern times.

Contemporary terrace gardens and retaining walls tend to be much smaller and modest in most residential landscaping designs, and while some are works of masonry, others are simply stacked stones or concrete steps. We set out the 10 retaining wall materials here.

The majority of the terraces and retaining walls youll see in this collection can be found in nearly any suburban neighborhood. Many contemporary terrace gardens are also in urban areas, and use extensive container gardening to create these small gardens in the lack of a traditional planting bed.

The above terrace is an expansive garden with a small pond, waterfall, and small evergreen bushes lining the larger terraces.

We hope youll enjoy this unique collection and find inspiration for your own garden!

Find more backyard ideas in our definitive guide to backyards!

A contemporary home with terraced landscaping on either side of the stone stairs that lead up to the front door. The light colored stones are stacked neatly around the planting beds, making the hillside less dramatic.

A stone retaining wall that snakes around either side of a paved pathway. Ornamental trees, flowers, and draping vines fill in and around the sides of the two terraces.

A simple terrace created with wooden blocks, chicken wire, and large stones for a rustic look. The landscaping is simple and low maintenance. Source: Zillow DigsTM

Stacked landscaping stones are an easy and great way to keep grass out of your planting bed and add curb appeal to your landscaping. Any borders you create will stay in place.

Thin slate stones stacked create a natural-looking, simple barrier between the landscaping and the grass.

A more country, rustic retaining wall by the side of a paved pathway, creating a terrace up the large hillside. Moss grows on the old stones, marking this wall as well aged.

The stones used to create these terraces and retaining walls are speckled with small holes that give them the appearance of a kitchen sponge.

A retaining wall with two tiers of landscaping that follows a paved pathway.

A series of light stone retaining walls that help keep the sand dunes from eroding away and also provide a sturdy place for larger evergreens to grow.

A simple, curved retaining wall that forms a circular planter full of petunias.

A retaining wall of light stacked stone that is uniform in color and size. The ground above the stones is covered in a thick groundcover.

A hand-laid retaining wall made out of natural stone. Two terraces are filled with low maintenance landscaping. The terraces smooth out angle between the much higher house and the lawn.

A series of layered stone terraces between the highest and lowest levels of a split-level home. A ramp is overhead. Source: Zillow DigsTM

A simple retaining wall that creates a raised gardening plot filled with petunias, black-eyed susans, and other members of the daisy family.

Terraces of multiple heights surround this pool complex, creating a private oasis.

A new garden with several garden tiers and new growth. The stone retaining walls will keep the arrangements separate.

Beautifully fashioned retaining walls, each with a different plant in large groups.

A series of retaining walls surrounding a waterfall that runs into a small creek down the hill.

Lush landscaping with a small birdbath, looking glass, and uniformly stacked stones. A small set of stairs leads up to a pathway on the top terrace.

A retaining wall next to a stone courtyard in alternating red and gray stone.

A simple terrace garden with ornamental grasses and bushes.

A residential terrace garden along a winding stone path along the side of the home.

A look at the above terrace garden and path from the rear of the home.

Stone retaining walls running beside a packed dirt road.

A short retaining wall that creates dedicated planting beds easily distinguishable from the grass lawn.

A series of small concrete terraces create steps along this hillside. Soft, plush grasses make this spot perfect for sitting.

A retaining perimeter wall around the wooden backyard patio. The top tier runs into the surrounding woods.

27 Garden Trellis and Lattice Ideas (Wood & Metal)|50 Creative Container Garden Ideas (Illustrations)|30 Incredible Sundeck Designs and Patios by Top Designers Worldwide|65 Walkway Ideas & Designs (Brick, Flagstone & Wood)

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27 Backyard Retaining Wall Ideas and Terraced Gardens

Residential / Commercial

VERSA-LOK offers eight attractive segmental retaining wall systems equally suited for residential, commercial and public works applications: Standard, Accent, Cobble, Mosaic, Square Foot, Ultra, Nexus and VERSA-Green, a plantable retaining wall system that becomes a living part of your landscape.

Since 1987, VERSA-LOK has been creating Solid Solutions for architects and engineers with the industrys original solid, top-pinning segmental retaining wall system. Our low-absorption, high-strength, solid concrete units provide not only the long-lasting durability engineers expect, but also the limitless number of design options architects demand.

Create curves, corners, stairs, columns and freestanding walls using Standard, Cobble or Accent VERSA-LOK units, or combine the three to form the random-pattern Mosaic Retaining Wall System. VERSA-LOK wall units are available in the classic split-face texture at all locations and in the vintage Weathered texture at select locations. These products all work with VERSA-LOK cap units.

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Our original, most popular unit, the Standard unit is the backbone of VERSA-LOK retaining wall systems. The unit's solid construction and unique pinning system provide an endless array of design options, hardcore durability and the fastest, easiest installation available. Not only straight retaining walls, but also curves, corners, columns, stairs and freestanding walls are possible with the Standard unit, making it a universal favorite among homeowners, contractors and landscape architects and designers alike. This all-purpose retaining wall block also is available a Weathered texture option at selected dealers.

Create eye-catching designs by combining VERSA-LOK Standard, Cobble and Accent units to form the random-patterned Mosaic Retaining Wall System. Attractiveanddurable, the Mosaic system uses a four-unit panel (10" x 24")consisting of one Standard, one Cobble and two Accent unitsgiving each wall an interesting and visually arresting look and feel. Although they can create seemingly complex patterns, the simple four-unit Mosaic panels are just as easy to install as our Standard, Cobble or Accent Retaining Wall Systems.

About half the size of the VERSA-LOK Standard wall block, Cobble units are perfect for planters, small walls and countless garden-variety projects. Smaller and conveniently lighter than its big brother Standard unit, versatile Cobble wall units retain the same top-down pinning system, saving you time and installation costs.

A slimmed-down version of the Standard wall unit, Accent units measure 4 inches tall by 12 inches wide. They're lighter than Standard units, but engineered with the same high-strength, low-absorption concrete. Easily installed, Accent units draw minimal attention to the wall, saving the spotlight for pools, gardens, and other features of the surrounding landscape.

Cap units can put the finishing touch on your VERSA-LOK retaining wall. They're available in two stylesA and Band are 3-5/8" tall by 14" wide (at the face). Caps can be used with all types of designs. For straight walls, use both caps alternately. Outside curves require A caps only while inside curves use B caps.

Square Foot is a premium cored unit that covers a full square foot of wall face economically, making it a low-cost alternative for some commercial applications. Its trapezoidal shape and top-pinning system allow for variable bond construction, accurate alignment, tighter vertical joints and easy installation. Square Foots unique design enables a near-vertical setback, and its thick face affords greater durability than other cored systems.

The VERSA-LOK Ultra retaining wall system offers VERSA-LOK's renowned durability and stunning looks in a lighter weight unit that opens up a new world of design options, either on its own or in combination with other VERSA-LOK units. Its six-inch height makes it easy to integrate with Standard, Cobble, and Accent units.

When you need to retain a lot of ground economically, the VERSA-LOK Nexus retaining wall system can meet your projects design specs and budget and create a great-looking retaining wall. The top-stud design readily accommodates a variable bond, so you can create walls that have a more natural appearance.

The VERSA-LOK Harmony retaining wall system uses Standard and Cobble wall units to create designs limited only by your imagination. Combine the units in countless ways to create a variety of natural-looking designs. At half the width and the same height as Standard units, Cobble units can be set randomly among Standard units or the two types of unit can be set in a repeating ratio.

The new VERSA-GreenPlantable Wall System combines the durability and strength of a VERSA-LOK segmental retaining wall with the lush beauty of a hanging garden. Inside each unit is a 6"-deep plantable core for planting and a groove in the top to accommodate irrigation tubing. The result is a functional wall that becomes a living part of your landscape.

In addition to our line of traditional segmental retaining wall systems for residential and commercial applications, VERSA-LOK also produces Brute and Bronco, two products specially designed for select large-scale commercial or agency projects. Brute and Bronco are manufactured to the same industry-exceeding standards as our other products.

The massive size of VERSA-LOK Brute240 pounds and 1-1/3 square feet face areamakes it the ideal solid solution for unreinforced walls to 8 feet; limited-access sites; sites where extensive excavation isnt possible or practical; vertical retaining walls; walls subject to impact; or shoreline applications. Brute is installed mechanically in pairs using a special clamp attached to a backhoe or other lifting device and employs VERSA-LOKs top-pinning design for quick unit alignment and construction versatility. Brute is only offered in certain regionscontact your local VERSA-LOK dealer for availability.

When youve got a landscaping job that requires a colossal-size segmental retaining wall (SRW), call for Bronco. Weighing in at 4,500 pounds and displaying 14 square feet of face area, Bronco has the heft and coverage to tackle any job you can throw at it. The heavyweight system builds walls up to 10 feet tall without soil reinforcement, making it ideal for projects with excavation constraints. And with a unique four-panel, natural-stone appearance, Bronco is the most attractive random-pattern large-block SRW system available.

When youve got a project that requires a heavy-duty retaining wall, call for Bronco II, the new heavyweight segmental wall system from VERSA-LOK. Weighing in from 1,225 to 3,215 pounds and displaying 6 square feet of face area and a 3.2 batter, Bronco II has the heft and coverage to tackle any job. Alignment knobs molded into the top of units and channels molded into the bottom ensure correct near-vertical positioning and allow for tight joints with variable-bond construction.

The VERSA-Lifter makes it easier to lift and place units, especially on the base course. The two prongs on the lifter are placed into the holes in the VERSA-LOK unit. The action of lifting the handle secures the lifter to the unit and makes for easy, balanced lifting and placement. VERSA-Lifter are available from your local supplier.

VERSA-LOK Fabric is ideal for soil reinforcement of shorter walls. This geotextile is both cost-effective and easy to install. It is available in convenient, ready-to-use roll sizes.

Engineered for durability and long life, VERSA-Grid geogrid is a high-performance soil reinforcement composed of high-molecular-weight, woven polyester yarns with a polymeric coating. Properly designed VERSA-LOK walls with VERSA-Grid soil reinforcement can be constructed to heights of 50 feet or more.

A single-component, non-sag elastomer, VERSA-LOK Concrete Adhesive is designed for use in non-traffic bearing joints, including those where structural movement or stress is expected. Each VERSA-LOK Concrete Adhesive cartridge contains enough adhesive to cap approximately 14 lineal feet of wall.

VERSA-LOKs original, solid pinning system provides a mechanical interlock between retaining wall units and a mechanical connection to geogrid soil reinforcement.all Systems.

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Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Blocks for Landscaping ...

Retaining Wall Material Costs

The customer has the most control during material selection. While having a beautifully finished wall is of paramount importance, it is integral to weigh function equally with form. For example, using wood for the structure may not be the best choice if extreme moisture is a factor, as termites and wood rot may sharply decrease its lifespan. A good contractor can help choose the material with the best combination of looks and functionality, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing final product that lasts for years.

Consider that cinder block walls arent secured deep into the ground by footings. They are installed in trenches and, therefore, should not be built higher than 4 feet for stability purposes.

Modular concrete blocks are similar and provide many of the same benefits. The main difference is that modular blocks are designed in such a way that they interlock for easy, lego-like installation. The speed of installation beats that of many other materials. There are more style and color options, and homeowners can pay a little more to get close to the look of natural stone.

One of the most popular brands of modular concrete blocks is Versa-Lok. They use a pin and pin-hole interlocking system and have a broad range of styles available. With Versa-Lok, homeowners can achieve standard, weathered, cobbled, and mosaic. They are also fortified enough to build taller than with cinder blocks, at a similar material price.

Similar to cinder block, poured concrete is durable and resistant to deterioration. The pouring method makes for a solid piece of concrete which is stronger than cinder block, but much more expensive. The result of the process is a sleek, modern design.

Wooden retaining walls are a favorite for gardens because their natural appearance harmonizes with landscape surroundings. Wood materials are often cost-effective and easy to obtain, though there are several varieties which can raise your price point significantly.

The downside of using wood is that it is susceptible to rot and water damage. Drainage, waterproofing, and pest control solutions are key to the longevity of this material. With quality care, it can last beyond 20 years. As with cinder blocks, it is best not to build them taller than four feet.

Used railroad ties will have been chemically treated so it is important to find out which chemicals are present before you buy. If youre not sure about buying used materials for your project, there are a number of companies which manufacture new planks for building with the same visual appeal.

The lower cost per square foot of natural stone materials may be deceiving, as the labor rates associated with installing this material drive up your overall budget significantly. Natural stones like boulders and rocks are heavy and difficult to work with. Expect to pay a minimum of $25 per square foot for labor and materials. The hourly cost for building with dry stacking stones is $65/hr, compared to brick installation at only $15-$25/hr (see more on labor below).

This style is great in shifting environments, such as banks near the ocean. The structure can adapt and move with the soil as it shifts, rather than cracking or tumbling. This is because it is built using wire or wire mesh cages, which come at $30-$40 per cubic yard, and durable filler materials. Gabion retaining walls can be made with a variety of filler materials, from crushed concrete to stones or wood. Your cost will depend greatly on the type of filler you use. Otherwise, installation is relatively simple and affordable.

Metal, while it doesnt typically call to mind a natural landscape, can make for a long-lasting and efficient retaining wall. Common materials include Corten Steel, steel and aluminum. These materials have many benefits, including their water resistance, their proven longevity, and their strength--though steel, of course, is much stronger than aluminum. Most of them can be found in both corrugated and plate form, for your taste and aesthetic.

Using earth or chalk materials is a natural and sustainable choice, but your cost can vary greatly depending on the style and material used. Typically, compressed earth blocks and rammed earth walls are made with chalk, earth, lime or gravel and are fortified with materials like clay and sand.

Compressed earth blocks are different from rammed earth walls in the way that concrete blocks are different from poured concrete. Rammed earth is created using a framework and forms a large slab that costs around $23-$27 per square foot. Compressed earth blocks are compressed individually and can come as low as $3-$7 per square foot, or $0.50-$1.00 per block.

Both forms are strong and low-maintenance. The material is inherently vulnerable to water damage, however, and must be waterproofed in order to ensure longevity. Homeowners can opt to include reinforcements, such as rebar, and a typical earthen retaining wall will include footings or a concrete slab for added stability. The most significant price factor involves labor.

Installing railroad ties is often one of the easiest and most cost-effective choices. With material and labor, you are looking at $25-$30 per square foot. This is because they dont demand much extra material or many tools. In fact, they are a common DIY project for homeowners.

Interlocking blocks are convenient for installation, saving time, equipment, and material costs. Material and labor averages $15-$30 per square foot. Some homeowners find that they are able to construct these walls all on their own, but it would still be wise to seek the guidance of a landscape architect.

While the material estimate for rammed earth can be relatively low, labor rates can be significant. If you opt for the compressed earth blocks, the price for labor and materials will look more like that of concrete blocks at $15-$25 per square foot. With monolithic slabs of rammed earth, however, you could be looking at paying $30-$40 per square foot.

These types of retaining walls are constructed using concrete, timber or even plastic, The materials are arranged in such a way that they create cells, which are filled with stone for water passage. They do not require reinforcement, as they are a form of gravity wall which achieves stability through interlocking materials. The ease of installation, for Criblock materials, lowers labor costs.

Several different factors can drive up labor rates quickly. A wall of greater-than-average height can increase costs, and how easily the workers can access the project site will also impact the final labor quote. If a gate or fence must be taken apart or removed in order to bring materials to the site and perform the work, count on adding this time to the overall budget. In addition, labor may also be added if the dirt removed has to be disposed of somewhere other than the project property. Figure an average labor rate of $53 to $58 an hour, depending on your region.

Miscellaneous Costs

These prices include specific tools needed to perform certain work during construction or even additional materials to strengthen the wall itself. For example, soils with heavy clay content retain water much more than those low in clay. This extra water weight requires that some be constructed with additional materials, usually fabrics, that distribute the weight evenly to prevent failure. Reasonable miscellaneous costs run in the range of about a dollar per square foot.

A lack of soil testing can lead to detrimental missteps and extensive repairs. Footing that is too shallow and doesnt reach below the frost line will be susceptible to changes in the soil. An underestimation of pressure, from wet soil or weight, will make it susceptible to tilting or even collapsing. Poor construction and cheap materials make for a weak and vulnerable structure that may need to be replaced entirely.

Excavation and grading will play a large role in your cost if you need to completely replace the structure. If your current wall is made of poured concrete, for example, it is a lot more difficult to remove and will run you more in labor and equipment. The following are averages associated with each service necessary for replacement.

Pitfalls of Retaining Walls

Building a long-lasting retaining wall is vastly more complicated than simply piling up blocks and shoveling dirt. Moisture is its primary enemy, and if not properly mitigated, can lead to expensive failures. Cracks are also a common feature in walls that haven't been properly drained, due to the extra weight and temperature differences that come with moisture-soaked soils.

If it is going to be higher than average, professional help may be required. Some states require the use of an engineer during the design process if it exceeds a specific height. The overall height includes the portion that is buried in the dirt, known as the "key", which is vital to ensure the lower portion doesn't collapse and cause soil sliding. Be sure to check local building codes regarding vertical feet; if the intended wall requires hiring an engineer, count on your overall budget increasing.

Most projects don't deal with every factor that increases cost. On average, most only have two or three common factors which many contractors can easily work with.

Retaining walls can be beautiful and capable, and if done well, will last for several decades. However, with so many factors during design and construction that can lead to a poor outcome, take the time necessary to decide the size that will best suit your need, as well as which acceptable materials will last the longest. Using professional contractors and engineers as needed will ensure the perfect end result and years of reliable use from the retaining wall.

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2018 Retaining Wall Costs: Calculate Cost to Build + Block ...

Sure, retaining walls look like simple stacked stone, block, or timber. But in fact, they're carefully engineered systems that wage an ongoing battle with gravity. They restrain tons of saturated soil that would otherwise slump and slide away from a foundation or damage the surrounding landscape. These handsome barriers also make inviting spots to sit, and can increase usable yard space by terracing sloped properties, something that is increasingly important as flat home sites become ever more scarce in many regions.

Along with sloped landscapes where water runoff causes hillside erosion, ideal locations for a retaining wall include spots downhill from soil fault lines and where the downhill side of a foundation is losing supporting soil or its uphill side is under pressure from sliding soil.

If your property needs a retaining wall, or if the one you have is failing, review these descriptions of the four most common types: timber; interlocking blocks; stacked stone, brick or block; and concrete.

Common ProblemsAlthough retaining walls are simple structures, a casual check around your neighborhood will reveal lots of existing walls that are bulging, cracked, or leaning. That's because most residential retaining walls have poor drainage, and many aren't built to handle the hillside they're supposed to hold back.

Even small retaining walls have to contain enormous loads. A 4-foot-high, 15-foot-long wall could be holding back as much as 20 tons of saturated soil. Double the wall height to 8 feet, and you would need a wall that's eight times stronger to do the same job. With forces like these in play, you should limit your retaining wall efforts to walls under 4 feet tall (3 feet for mortarless stone). If you need a taller wall, consider step-terracing the lot with two walls half as big, or call in a landscape architect or structural engineer for the design work (have the architect or engineer inspect the site thoroughly) and experienced builders for the installation.

If you have your retaining wall built, figure about $15 per square face foot for a timber wall, $20 for an interlocking-block system or poured concrete, and $25 for a natural-stone wall. Preparing a troublesome siteone that includes clay soil or a natural spring, for examplecan raise costs substantially. Add 10 percent or so if you hire a landscape architect or engineer. But shop around; some landscape firms do the design work for free if they do the installation.

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Engineering a Retaining Wall | This Old House

How soil pushes (and how to build a retaining wall that pushes back)

When you contemplatehow to build aretaining wall a retain wall design, you may imagine how firm and solid itll appear from the front, or how great the new garden will look above it. But unless you give serious thought to what goes on behind and below the wall, it may not look good for long. A poorly built wall can lean, separate, even toppleand its out there in plain sight where all your neighbors can point and snicker. You dont want that!

Lots of people think a retaining wall needs to hold back all 6 gazillion tons of soil in the yard behind it. It doesnt. It only needs to retain a wedge of soil, or elongated wedge of soil, similar to that shown in Fig. A. In simple terms (our apologies to all you soil engineers out there): Undisturbed soilsoil that has lain untouched and naturally compacted for thousands of yearshas a maximum slope beyond which it wont hang together on its own. This slope is called the failure plane. If left alone, the soil behind the failure plane will stay put on its own. But the soil in front of the failure planethe natural soil or the fill youre going to addwants to slide down the failure plane.

Gravity, along with the slope, directs most of the weight and pressure of the fill toward the lower part of the retaining wall. Since soil weighs a beefy 100-plus lbs. per cu. ft., you need some pretty heavy materiallarge retaining wall blocks, boulders, timbers or poured concreteto counteract the pressure. Just as important, it needs to be installed the right way. Here are three key principles in building any solid retaining wall:

A retaining wall needs to retain all the material that fills the space between itself and the failure planethe steepest angle at which existing soil can hold itself together before caving in.

Water can weaken retaining walls by washing out the base material that supports the wall (Fig. E). But far more frequently, it causes problems by building up behind the wall, saturating the soil and applying incredible pressure. Thats when walls start leaning, bulging and toppling. Well built walls are constructed and graded to prevent water from getting behind the wall and to provide a speedy exit route for water that inevitably weasels its way in.

Take a look at the well-drained wall in Fig. D. The sod and topsoil are almost even with the top block, so surface water flows over the top rather than puddling behind. Just below that is 8 to 12 in. of packed impervious soil to help prevent water from seeping behind the wall. The gravel below that soil gives water that does enter a fast route to the drain tile. And the perforated drain tile collects the water and directs it away from the base of the wall, escorting it out through its open ends. Theres nothing to prevent water from seeping out between the faces of the blocks, either; that helps with the drainage too. The wall even has porous filter fabric to prevent soil from clogging up the gravel. What youre looking at is a well-drained wall that will last a long time.

Now look at the poorly drained wall in Fig. E. Theres a dip in the lawn that collects water near the top of the wall. Theres no impervious soil, so the water heads south, slowly waterlogging and increasing the weight of the soil packed behind the wall. The homeowner put plastic against the back of the wall to prevent soil from oozing out between the cracksbut its also holding water in. Yikes! Theres no drain tile at the bottomthe trapped water can soak, soften and erode the base material. Not only that, an excavated trench that extends below the base lets water soak into the base material and weaken it. Youve got a retaining wall that has to hold back tons and tons of water and saturated soiland when that water freezes and expands in the winter, matters get even worse.

A strong retaining wall design features well-compacted base material, compacted material in front of the wall to prevent kick-out, and stepped-back materials.

A wall that has an uneven base, no compacted material in front of it and no step-back to the materials will eventually fail.

Even if you have only a small wedge of soil to retain like that shown in Fig. A, compaction is important. If your failure plane is farther back so your wall needs to retain more fill, weight and pressure, then compaction and a reinforcing grid become critical. These two things help increase internal friction and direct the pressure of the fill you add downward (Fig. F), rather than at an angle pushing against the wall. Good compaction doesnt mean dumping a couple of feet of fill behind the wall, then jumping up and down on it in your work boots.

Nope, good compaction means adding 3 or 4 in. of material, compacting it with a heavy, noisy vibrating plate tamper from your friendly neighborhood rental yard, then repeating these steps over and over. Your landscape supplier or block manufacturer (if youre using modular blocks) can tell you whether you need to install reinforcing grid, and at what intervals. The taller the wall, the more likely youll need reinforcing grid.

When building a retaining wall, never backfill with, or compact, topsoil; it will break down and settle, creating a water-welcoming trench behind your wall. Use sandy or gravelly materials, which compact much better. And always make certain you dont become overzealous and compact your wall outward.

From top to bottom, a well-built wall either prevents water from getting behind the wall or ushers it away quickly when it does.

Water trapped behind a wall pushes against it and increases the weight of the soil, which also pushes against it.

By themselves, landscape timbers and a railroad tie retaining wall lack the weight to hold back soil. To make these walls strong, you need to add deadmen, anchors that lock the wall into the soil behind them (Fig. G). The same pressure thats pushing against the wall pushes down on the deadmen to keep them (and therefore the wall) in place. The principles of stepping back, installing good drainage and compacting also apply to timber walls.

Walls of any material that are taller than 4 ft. play by the same rulesits just that the wedge of soil is too big and heavy to be held in place by the weight of the materials alone. Some communities now require building permits and construction details for walls exceeding 4 ft. in height. We think thats a good idea too. Many modular block manufacturers can supply printed sheets of structural information.

For tall slopes, a series of tiered walls is a good substitute for a single tall wall. But an upper tier can apply pressure to a lower tier unless its spaced the proper distanceyou know, behind the failure plane. The rule of thumb is to set back the upper wall twice the height of the lower wall.

Compacting backfill in 3- to 4-in. layers and installing a reinforcement grid directs pressure downward, rather than against the wall.

A deadman helps anchor a timber wall in place when building a retaining wall. The same pressure thats pushing against the wall is pushing and holding the deadmanand therefore the wallin place.

Have the necessary tools for this DIY how to build a retaining wall project lined up before you startyoull save time and frustration.

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time for this how to build a retaining wall project. Heres a list.

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How to Build a Retaining Wall Stronger | Family Handyman

1. Incorporate the Wall Into Your Lifestyle

Retaining walls are usually thought of as utilitarian and for merely holding back soil. But you can use them to create beautiful outdoor living spaces and incorporate multi-use spaces.

Retaining walls don't have to be perfectly straight. Add a curve to dress up a boring straight wall and to add a little more texture to your landscape. You can use a garden hose or large rope to set the layout of the curve, then use a shovel to cut through the soil to follow the curve.

Smaller retaining walls, such as those less than four feet, can be easily planned and created without worrying too much about structure. Larger walls above that height may need an engineer's touch. Also be sure to check with local codes before starting one more than four feet tall.

From a lower grade, you'll need to gradually step up the retaining wall to reach a greater slope. Do this in increments and plan for a slight offset for each course change.

Besides offering a consistent look, manufactured blocks and stones for retaining walls offer structural integrity and an even base with which to work. There is little guesswork in installing, plus you'll have less work to do making sure each course is level. Be sure to color match and space out uneven colored stones and blocks for a better look.

Dig out your base several inches below grade and tamp/compact it to level. Add any filler, such as gravel, before adding your first stones or blocks. Remember, the base sets the tone for the entire wall, so spend a lot of time in preparing this key component.

A retaining wall that has a slope dropping to it will need additional drainage at the base. Add gravel and a fabric-covered drainage pipe at the base. The fabric will help prevent clogging of the pipe — a key feature as you will not want to dig out the pipe later to unclog it.

For each course of stones and blocks, be sure to check for level. This will help maintain a sturdy and balanced wall, plus you'll keep an even and consistent look.

Backfilling as you go adds support in success layers, so as you add a new course of blocks or stones, backfill to match this level. Be sure to tamp in/compact the soil as well, so you don't have as much settling later.

Add cap blocks to the top row of a block or stone retaining wall. You can add a layer of masonry adhesive to hold them in place, then back fill. Or you can backfill as you go, then add the cap. Either way, it provides a nice finished look, much like edging added to a paver patio.

See more here:
10 Things You Must Know About Retaining Walls | DIY

Our experts prefer crushed stone for the base rather than naturally occurring gravel dug from a pit. Crushed stone is a little more expensive. However, it provides better drainage, and because of the sharper angles on the stone, it requires less compacting, and once its compacted, it stays that way.

Joe and Jake have found that crushed stone sized between 1/2 in. and 3/4 in. is best suited to handle the heaving forces created by the harsh freeze/thaw cycles here in Minnesota. Avoid rounded stones like pea gravel or river rock; they dont form strong interlocking bonds like angular stone.

Leave the stone no more than 1/2 in. higher than you want the final height to be, and then make a couple passes with a hand tamper or plate compactor. Youll notice the stone is almost 100 percent compacted as soon as its laid in the trench. The same type of stone will be used for backfilling, which also eliminates the need for hauling in multiple materials.

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Build a Long-Lasting Block Retaining Wall | Family Handyman

Retaining walls often serve a very important role of preventing soil erosion and maintaining the grade of a landscape. They often hold the land back, preventing it from sliding. Retaining walls can be as beautiful as they are functional and can be the focal point of a landscape. Many different materials can be used to blend with any design and the cost of a retaining wall can vary.

There are several factors that affect the price of a retaining wall, mainly labor and materials needed for the project.

Labor is a significant cost for any construction project, and that cost will vary depending on the size, scale, and complexity of the landscaping project. Labor to construct a retaining wall often ranges between $50-$60 per hour, but the amount of labor needed will need to be estimated. Consider requesting a professional retaining wall estimate to get an accurate labor cost. You may be able to complete the project yourself as well, minimizing labor costs.

Retaining wall material can range in price from $10-$40 per square foot, with some material options including cinder block, wood, interlocking concrete block, natural stone, or poured concrete.

Cinder block is a cost effective material for a retaining wall, and usually runs between $10-$15 per square foot. Cinder block is often not the most desirable choice for a retaining wall since it is not structurally designed for lateral support and to hold the land back, but may be used for short retaining walls. Cinder block can be plastered or painted to improve the cosmetic appearance. Check out our concrete block calculator to estimate how many cinder blocks you will need for your wall.

Wood timbers are a great material for retaining walls since they are beautiful and strong. Wood timbers often cost $15-$25 per square foot. Wood walls often last many years, however they do tend to rot and degrade over time and will eventually need to be replaced.

Interlocking concrete blocks are beautiful and designed and structured specifically for use in retaining walls. Block walls usually cost $20-$30 per square foot, which can vary depending on the type of block used. Concrete block walls can last a lifetime when installed correctly and add beauty to almost any landscape. Estimate how many blocks you need for your retaining wall.

Natural stone retaining walls are very attractive, and stones can range in size from a few inches to a several feet. Natural stone usually costs $25-$40 per square foot but usually cost a bit more than concrete blocks to install. Learn more about installing natural stone retaining walls.

Poured concrete has become more popular for use in retaining walls as color and patterns have become more commonly used, making them look much better than a plain concrete wall. Poured concrete is often the most expensive choice for a wall at about $30-$40 per square foot, but is also extremely durable. When installed correctly a poured concrete wall will last a very long time with virtually no maintenance.

People often overlook some additional materials needed to install any retaining wall. A proper wall installation often starts with a solid base, sometimes gravel, sand, or concrete. Walls also need a way to drain excess water from behind the wall, which requires gravel, backing, and drain materials. After the wall is constructed fill material will be needed for behind the wall, but often this is available on site. Consider the cost of these extra materials when estimating the cost of your wall project.

Other factors can affect the cost of a retaining wall. Once common factor is the amount of excavation needed for the project and the material that needs to be excavated. Removing rock and boulders will be more labor intensive then removing dirt for example. The height of a wall can also affect the cost. Higher walls need to have a stronger base, more drainage, more excavation, and often require more planning and engineering. Adding steps to a wall can also add to the cost, so consider that when estimating your project. Every property is different so always consider getting professional estimates for a more accurate cost assessment of your retaining wall.

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Retaining Wall in 2018 ...

Let the strength and durability of hand-crafted, specially-designed concrete not only enhance the aesthetic value of your home, but provide the structural support you need as well. StoneMakers of Pittsburgh has the ability to create a custom concrete retaining wall for your Pittsburgh home that will last for decades. Our retaining walls are functional while increasing the value of your home. Our experience and our high-quality product have made us the number one concrete retaining wall designer and installer in western Pennsylvania.

Retaining walls are used in many residential and commercial areas. They add beauty to a front yard, back yard, or entrance way, but they also have an important and functional purpose: They prevent rock, soil, and vegetation from falling into a home, building, or other structure, such as a driveway or parking lot.

Retaining walls are commonly used around new construction areas, especially in the Pittsburgh area, since western Pennsylvania terrain is very hilly. Youve no doubt seen retaining walls on the highway and outside of businesses on hillsides.Most retaining walls are designed to prevent unstable soil from sliding into a yard or building.

StoneMakers designs and installs the best retaining walls in the Pittsburgh area. Our knowledge and products are second to none, and we back up every installation with our service guarantee.

We use only the highest-quality product: a solid monolithic concrete that is cast as one piece. This kind of concrete is durable, is stronger than stone, and can be used in both hot and cold climates. The concrete is poured, carved and textured to look just like real rock, and it lasts for a lifetime. Using a special technique, we can make the concrete appear as distressed rock, giving your outdoor area a new, natural look. We have different rock patterns available and will be glad to show you each.

A concrete retaining wall is not a DIY project. They should only be designed by a professional who understands the proportioning of the wall, its structural design, and the minimum reinforcement cover. StoneMakers will determine the dimension of the walls by calculating the slope of the ground, evaluating the type of soil in your yard, and measuring the proposed length of the wall. In addition, a drainage system will have to be installed to prevent groundwater from exerting further pressure on the wall.We do great work, but we also work quickly because we have more than 25 years of experience. We can be finished with a 50 foot by 5 foot retaining wall within 3-5 days. (A traditional stone wall will cost much more and take several weeks to complete.) We guarantee that you will love the design of your new retaining wall!

Call StoneMakers today to learn more about our decorative concrete retaining walls and take a look at this video to see just how we install retaining walls.

If youre interested in seeing more of our excellent retaining wall work, feel free to continue on to our retaining walls gallery page!

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Retaining Walls Pittsburgh | StoneMakers of Western PA

Poured retaining walls with elaborate curves require complex formwork and will drive up cost for a wall.

The total cost to have a concrete retaining wall installed will be a combination of material and labor prices. For a basic wall you can expect to pay between $30 and $40 per square foot. If you add a decorative finish, curves, steps, lighting or other upgrades, the cost will rise.

What factors influence the cost of a concrete wall?

For Ralston, $39 per square foot is the average cost he charges for a wall under 4 feet tall. For walls below 4 feet, he says his prices are often competitive with finished block. A block wall has to be stuccoed or finished with veneer, while a concrete wall does not need an added finish. If the concrete mix was integrally colored, all you need to do is remove the forms. This can be an area where concrete has a cost advantage over other retaining wall materials. Furthermore, concrete walls can be stamped to look like stone at a much lower price than a natural stone wall.

Protecting Your InvestmentHiring a contractor who is experienced with pouring concrete walls will ensure that you get a quality product that will last for years. When constructing a concrete wall it is imperative that the forms be built properly, or else the end result could have waves or bulges that make it appear sloppy. Waterproofing and drainage are also important elements of wall construction that Ralston stresses as essential. He warns that without the proper waterproofing, moisture could move through the wall and discolor the finished surface. Without the proper drainage, hydrostatic pressure could build up behind the wall and cause it to lean outwards. Fixing these problems can be quite costly and may even lead to demolishing the existing wall and re-pouring fresh concrete with the proper construction methods. To avoid maintenance issues, costly repairs or complete replacement, shop around for a contractor with proven experience in building concrete retaining walls.

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Concrete Retaining Wall Cost - The Concrete Network