Home & Real Estate

How Much Does It Typically Cost to Build a Retaining Wall?

Did you know that the average yearly growth rate for home remodeling is 4.4%?

Retaining walls is necessary because, with a pool, the ground can cave in due to water keeping. A retaining wall is perfect for preventing having to redo the basement or foundation.

Of course, if you are not building a pool, you may still want to use a retaining wall for garden beds, to support terrain, or to fortify your home against fires. The question is, how much does it cost to build a retaining wall?

You can find out more below as we answer this question for you.

Contents

Height and Length of the Wall

Retaining walls are common in areas with a lot of rainfall or runoff. They prevent soil erosion and water damage to buildings and property. The cost of constructing a retaining wall depends on its height and length and the type of materials used.

A wall that is only one foot high and ten feet long will cost less than a six-foot high and one-hundred-foot-long wall. 

Type of Materials Used

Building a retaining wall can be a costly and extensive project. The most critical factor in determining the cost of retaining wall materials. The most common type of retaining wall is concrete, which can range in price from $10 to $30 per square foot.

Other popular materials used for retaining walls include stone, brick, and wood. These materials can range in cost from $20 to $100 per square foot. In addition to the cost of materials, the cost of labor and installation must also be considered.

The Soil Conditions

Building a retaining wall is a great way to create a usable space in your yard while protecting against soil erosion. The cost of building a retaining wall depends on several factors, including the type of material used, the size and height of the wall, and the soil conditions. Generally, costs can range from $20 to $50 per square foot.

The Severity of the Slope

There is no definitive answer to how much it costs to build a retaining wall, as the price is highly dependent on the severity of the slope. The taller and more drastic the hill, the more expensive the wall will be to construct.

A wall that is only a few feet tall and holds back a relatively small amount of earth will be less costly than a wall that is several stories tall and needs to support a large amount of weight. If you are considering installing a retaining wall, you may take a look at masonry contractors to help you in building your retaining wall.

Labor Costs

Labor costs vary widely depending on the company you hire and the job’s complexity. However, a general rule of thumb is to expect to pay about $10 per square foot of wall for labor. So, if you’re looking to build a retaining wall that is 20 feet long and 4 feet high, you can expect to pay about $800 in labor costs.

Understanding How to Build a Retaining Wall

Building a retaining wall is not a cheap endeavor. The costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Considering how to build a retaining wall, it is essential to factor in the price of materials, labor, as well as permits.

For more helpful ideas, be sure to check out the other posts on our blog.