Why are retaining walls expensive?

The greatest cost of retaining wall block is shipping since it is so heavy. Larger size decorative retaining wall blocks are more expensive than smaller blocks. Large blocks are capable of holding back more soil and can be built higher. Not only that, their faces can be textured for decorative purposes.

Is a retaining wall worth it?

You need a way to control downhill erosion. If mountains of erosion materials are clogging important areas on your property, adding a retaining wall is a wonderful idea. Retaining walls minimize erosion by decreasing the angle of a slope and holding back soil. Erosion can threaten your home’s foundation.

How costly are retaining walls?

The average cost of building a retaining wall is $5,658. You’ll likely spend between $3,195 and $8,718, but some projects hit $14,000. You’ll pay $20 to $60 per square foot or $30 to $150 per linear foot on average, with large, complex builds with high-end materials costing up to $125 per square foot.

Why are retaining walls bad?

Poor drainage One of the most frequent causes of retaining wall issues is saturated soils. Pressure is dramatically increased when water is allowed to saturate the soil or the backfill. Wet soil is heavier than dry soil and it can put a strain on the retaining wall if it is not designed to handle that increased weight.

How long do retaining walls last?

between 50 and 100 years
How long will my retaining wall last? For a permanent wall structure, the general lifespan is generally between 50 and 100 years. This does, however, depend on the conditions of the soil and groundwater at your site.

How much does a 10 foot retaining wall cost?

Generally speaking, the California average cost for a retaining wall is anywhere between $300-$900 per linear foot.

Does my retaining wall need drainage?

Third, since most retaining walls are impervious, which means water cannot pass through the wall itself, efficient drainage is crucial. When drainage goes unaddressed hydrostatic pressure will build up behind the wall and cause damage such as bulging or cracking.

What is a Deadman in a retaining wall?

A Deadman railroad tie is a railroad tie that runs perpendicular to the retaining wall and into the hill that you are building the retaining wall against. Deadman ties are great for ensuring the retaining wall is as solid as possible. We recommend using a deadman railroad tie every 20 feet of your retaining wall.

Do retaining walls need weep holes?

Retaining walls are useful structures that form a transition between areas of different elevation. Retaining walls allow steep, unusable slopes to be avoided. Weep holes should be drilled through the wall. Weep holes allow water to escape from behind the wall.

Does a retaining wall add value to your home?

With a broader range of appeal, investing in landscaping can add up to 15 percent to the value of a home, and an average return of 100 to 200 percent. Not only does a retaining wall add structural integrity to a yard that is sloped, but the right retaining wall can add significant aesthetic value to the property.

Does a 4 foot retaining wall need drainage?

The design and performance of most retaining walls are based on keeping the area behind the wall relatively dry. Any reinforced wall or walls over 4 ft. (1.2 m) in height or with slopes or other surcharges above the wall will need a toe drain.

How many dead men do you need in a retaining wall?

Install one dead man every 6 to 8 feet around the entire wall. Continue building up the retaining wall, using landscaping screws to secure each timber.