Retaining walls are an essential element of many home landscapes. They help divert water runoff from your foundation, basement, and crawl space. They transform a sloped backyard into a level space to enjoy the outdoors, and they stop soil erosion and sliding.
If you’re experiencing issues like these, you may wonder how much does a retaining wall cost? This article will explore some of the types of walls available and some of the components that make up retaining wall prices.
What Types of Materials Are Used in a Retaining Wall?
Depending on your location, landscape, and the style of your home, there are many materials that can be used to create an attractive and useful retaining wall. Simple, functional walls can be built out of cinder blocks, modular concrete blocks, or poured concrete. You can make your retaining wall more aesthetically pleasing by using various timbers, stone, or brick.
The materials you choose to build a retaining wall are a major factor in determining the price of its construction. A stone retaining wall cost will be higher than the cost of a retaining wall made from cinder blocks, for example.
How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost?
Materials are only one part of the equation in determining the cost of your retaining wall. Other factors include the wall’s length and height, how much site work and excavation are required, and the cost of labor to install the wall.
On average, you’ll pay between $3 and $40 per square foot for materials. Labor rates vary by city, as do rates for excavation. But you can take the cost of materials and multiply it by five to estimate the total installation cost.
Homeowners typically pay between $5,000 and $6,000 for a retaining wall that is 4-feet high and 25-feet long.
Can I Install a Retaining Wall Myself?
Many homeowners install simple retaining walls as a DIY project. It’s a straightforward process to prepare the land and stack blocks, rock, or bricks. However, there is land-moving equipment you will have to rent or hire someone to operate for you.
Not everyone has the skill to create a retaining wall that satisfies their aesthetic taste. If you’re hoping to create something with an architectural style, it’s probably a good idea to hire a professional. Also, if you need a wall that is higher than four feet, most cities require an engineer to be involved with the construction of the foundation.
Count the Costs
The answer to “how much does a retaining wall cost” is, it depends. There are many materials to choose from, and each has a different price. The height and length of your wall will affect the price of a retaining wall, and so will the cost of labor.
You can save some money by doing some or all of the work yourself, but as with all things, you get what you pay for. Hiring a professional to help with excavation, laying the foundation, or constructing the entire wall can make the difference between a wall that is functional and a retaining wall that increases the visual beauty of your home.
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