Common Retaining Wall FAQs

What is the best way to construct a retaining wall?

If you want to build a retaining wall that will last for years, you must follow a few simple rules. It’s critical to have solid construction materials and proper drainage. First, choose the material from which you’ll build the retaining wall. Natural stones, concrete blocks, bricks, and wood are all popular materials used for creating retaining walls. In the location where you want the retaining wall, start by digging a trench and leveling the ground. Lay a base of crushed gravel, ensuring the stones are leveled and tamped down. Build the retaining wall from your choice of materials, then backfill with sand or gravel. To finish, fill in the remaining space behind the wall with soil, and level it out to the height of the wall.

How wide does a retaining wall have to be?

The width of the retaining wall will depend on the type of materials used. For example, if the retaining wall is made from timber or stones, the width of the materials will ultimately determine the width of the wall. If you’re planning on building a concrete block retaining wall on your property, start by digging a trench for the blocks. It should be twice the depth of the block, and you should center the block within the middle of the channel. Precast concrete retaining walls, like those offered at Harper Precast, have very precise and specific dimensions that engineers calculate to ensure that the retaining wall lasts for years.

How much does a retaining wall cost?

The cost of a retaining wall can vary greatly depending on the materials used, the construction method, and the company building the retaining wall. On average, a retaining wall costs $16-$75 per square foot. To receive a more accurate price for the retaining wall you’d like to build, simply price out the materials you’d like to use and calculate the price per square foot. Landscape, construction, and concrete companies like Harper Precast offer free quotes for retaining walls, so you can also contact us for a more accurate price.

What is a gravity retaining wall?

As the name implies, gravity retaining walls rely on their own weight to retain the earth behind them. They’re commonly built in a tight area with little room behind walls for excavation. The walls are made from massive blocks that use a tongue-and-groove system that locks the blocks together. When the blocks are placed on the wall, the weight of the blocks provides stability and durability to last a lifetime. Gravity walls are simple to construct, require no mortar or pins, and use minimal labor. They’re a popular choice for retaining walls because they’re a reliable, cost-effective solution for many applications.

How long do concrete retaining walls last?

The length of time that a retaining wall lasts depends on the construction method and type of materials used. To ensure the retaining wall lasts for years, it must be built with proper design and construction with durable materials. On average, wooden retaining walls can last about 25-40 years if the wood is high quality. The most durable retaining walls are brick or stone retaining walls and can last up to 100 years. Poured concrete panels are perhaps the most durable of all retaining walls because concrete is known for its strength and durability. At Harper Precast, we offer industry-leading concrete products for effective and durable retaining wall systems that last many years.

Is a concrete block retaining wall more affordable than a solid concrete retaining wall?

When planning a retaining wall, one of the most common questions asked is what type of material is the cheapest. Concrete blocks are generally more affordable than solid concrete retaining wall panels. We offer both concrete retaining wall blocks and solid precast retaining wall panels at Harper Precast. For an accurate cost for your retaining wall, contact Harper Precast for a free quote. We will come to the site, inspect the area, and suggest the appropriate retaining wall solution that is durable enough to last for many years to come and will fit within your budget.

How long does it take to install a precast retaining wall?

Because of their size, precast retaining walls are typically faster to construct than other retaining wall types. Each poured concrete panel is cast off-site in our enclosed factory, allowing the concrete to be mixed and cured without interference from outside elements. Our concrete panels can be customized to fit your project’s unique needs and design so that the retaining wall will be beautiful and durable. The panels are brought to the construction site and placed to form the retaining wall. Our experienced professionals ensure that the precast retaining wall is installed correctly and will last a lifetime.