Poured ConcreteĪlthough strong, poured concrete is not the best choice for building their retaining wall by themselves. concrete for retaining walls you can check out. This is definitely a type of wall that would require an extra set of hands or two and could potentially need the help of an engineer if walls higher than 4 feet (1.2 meters) are desired.įor more information on how to effectively build a retaining wall using timber, check out this video from This Old House:Īdditionally, we wrote an article about wood vs. Wood does not last nearly as long as stones or concrete blocks would, and the pieces are often large and awkward to transport. If cost is your biggest concern, pressure-treated wood is the best material for building your retaining wall.Īlthough inexpensive, there are several downsides to using wood instead of other materials. Each has significant advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to do lots of research before choosing which material is best for your project. There is wood, concrete blocks, poured concrete, and stone or bricks, in order of least to most expensive. For those that do not have a lot of experience doing this type of work themselves, there are blocks manufactured specifically for retaining walls that can make the process significantly easier.Īlthough retaining walls can be constructed using many things, there are four main types. It is important to use a material that you feel comfortable with. The cost of building a retaining wall is not only reliant on the material used but additional expenses like the need for excavation or backfilling. Plan what you would like your retaining wall to look like and what steps need to be taken in order to be successful. With all of the different designs and materials available, it is important to research properly. We’ve written about the importance of drainage in the past. Proper drainage must be included in your design as the soil can become very heavy when wet.Depending on the size of the retaining wall, a building permit may be needed before starting construction.Due to the amount of lifting and moving of soil and materials, this project would require more than one person.Whether undertaking a DIY retaining wall or hiring a contractor, several things must be taken into account before starting: By integrating additional features, such as plants or lights, a functional wall can also become an eye-catching focal point of a yard. Building a retaining wallīuilding a retaining wall has many advantages, such as increasing the amount of usable space in your outdoor areas.Īdditionally, depending on the height and design, retaining walls can act as a great built-in seating area. This article will explain the basics of a retaining wall, the different materials and approaches that can be used, and things to watch out for when building. For those who are planning on building their own retaining wall, it is vital to plan and research. Each material has benefits and drawbacks, including strength, longevity, and attractiveness. The cheapest types of retaining walls are wood and concrete blocks, followed by concrete and stones or bricks. In fact, there are hundreds of design ideas available, all in varying materials, heights, and styles. Although the predominant purpose of a retaining wall is to support soil on two different levels, they are also a great way to improve outdoor space.
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