Landscape Retaining Walls: 7 Best Benefits for 2024

The Importance and Benefits of Landscape Retaining Walls

If you’re looking to improve your garden’s aesthetics and functionality, landscape retaining walls might be just what you need. These structures not only prevent soil erosion but also create flat, usable spaces out of sloped terrain, increasing both the value and usability of your property. Here’s a quick list of why landscape retaining walls are so essential:

• Erosion Control: Keeps soil in place, especially in sloped areas.
• Improved Usability: Transforms slopes into flat, functional spaces.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds beauty and structure to your garden.
• Increased Property Value: Makes your landscape more valuable and attractive.

Landscape retaining walls are versatile and can be made from various materials like concrete, stone, and wood to suit your garden’s aesthetic. These structures not only serve practical purposes like preventing floods and soil erosion, but they can also become stunning focal points in your landscape design.

I’m Scott McLeod, with over three decades of experience in landscaping design and construction, including landscape retaining walls. I’m excited to share insights into why these walls are essential for your garden.

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– boulder walls landscaping
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Understanding Landscape Retaining Walls

Landscape retaining walls are essential elements in garden design, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Let’s break down what they are, their differences from other walls, and their primary purposes.

Definition

A landscape retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back soil. It’s typically used on sloped terrain to create flat, usable spaces. As Joe Raboine from Belgard Residential Hardscapes puts it, “At the basic level, a retaining wall is a structure that holds or retains soil behind it.” These walls can be made from various materials, including concrete blocks, bricks, natural stones, and treated wood.

Difference: Retaining Wall vs. Landscape Wall

While both types of walls can improve your garden, they serve different primary functions:

• Retaining Wall: Primarily designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion. These are crucial in sloped areas where soil movement could be an issue.
• Landscape Wall: Focuses more on aesthetics and garden design. These walls might not need to support as much weight and can be more decorative.

Mauricio Lobeira, a Monterrey-based architect, notes that retaining walls often double as garden or terrace backdrops, blending functionality with beauty.

Purpose

The purpose of a landscape retaining wall extends beyond just holding back soil. Here are some key roles they play:

• Erosion Control: Prevents soil from washing away, especially on slopes.
• Creating Usable Space: Converts steep, unusable land into flat, functional areas for gardening, patios, or pathways.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Adds structure and visual interest to your garden. Options like natural stone or concrete with flower beds can make a striking impact.
• Increased Property Value: Flatter, more usable surfaces are more valuable. According to Lobeira, “Flatter and uniformed surfaces are more expensive than steep ones.”

Additionally, retaining walls can incorporate elements like steps or doorways, making them more functional. Collin Koonce from BKV Group suggests adding steps to retaining walls in sloped areas for easy access between different garden levels.

Conclusion

Understanding the fundamentals of landscape retaining walls helps in appreciating their value in garden design. These walls not only support the soil but also improve the usability and beauty of your outdoor space. Next, let’s explore the various types of landscape retaining walls and how to choose the right one for your garden.

Types of Landscape Retaining Walls

When it comes to landscape retaining walls, there are several types to consider. Each type serves a unique purpose and is suitable for different conditions. Let’s explore the four main types: Gravity, Cantilever, Embedded, and Reinforced Soil.

Gravity Retaining Walls

Gravity retaining walls rely on their own weight to hold back soil. These walls are usually built with heavy materials like concrete, stone, or large masonry units.

• How They Work: The mass of the wall counteracts the pressure from the soil behind it.
• Best For: Shorter walls, typically up to 4 feet high.
• Advantages: Simple construction, no need for additional reinforcement.
• Disadvantages: Can be bulky and require a large footprint.

Cantilever Retaining Walls

Cantilever retaining walls use a structural arm (or cantilever) that extends into the soil behind the wall. This arm helps balance the pressure from the retained soil.

• How They Work: The wall is anchored by a slab or footing that extends back into the retained soil, creating leverage.
• Best For: Taller walls, usually more than 4 feet high.
• Advantages: Efficient use of materials, less bulky than gravity walls.
• Disadvantages: Requires more complex engineering and construction.

Embedded Retaining Walls

Embedded retaining walls are partially buried in the ground. These walls use the soil in front of and behind them for stability.

• How They Work: The wall is driven deep into the soil, relying on the friction and pressure from the surrounding earth to stay upright.
• Best For: Situations with limited space or where excavation is difficult.
• Advantages: Minimal footprint, suitable for restricted spaces.
• Disadvantages: Can be challenging to install, often requiring specialized equipment.

Reinforced Soil Retaining Walls

Reinforced soil retaining walls combine soil and reinforcement materials like geogrids or steel strips to create a stable structure.

• How They Work: Layers of soil are reinforced with horizontal elements that extend back into the retained soil, distributing pressure evenly.
• Best For: Large-scale projects, such as highway embankments or large terraces.
• Advantages: Highly stable, can be built to great heights.
• Disadvantages: Requires careful planning and installation.

Choosing the Right Type

When choosing the right type of landscape retaining wall for your garden, consider the following:

• Height of the Wall: Gravity walls are best for shorter heights, whereas cantilever and reinforced soil walls can handle taller structures.
• Available Space: Embedded walls are ideal for tight spaces, while gravity walls require more room.
• Soil Conditions: Some wall types are better suited for certain soil types. For example, reinforced soil walls work well in loose or sandy soils.
• Aesthetic Preferences: Think about the look you want. Natural stone offers a timeless appeal, while concrete can provide a sleek, modern finish.

By understanding the different types of landscape retaining walls and their specific uses, you can make an informed decision that improves both the functionality and aesthetics of your garden.

Next, let’s dive into how to choose the right materials for your retaining wall.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Retaining Wall

Selecting the right materials for your landscape retaining wall is crucial. The material you choose will affect the wall’s durability, appearance, and cost. Here are some popular options:

Wood

Wood is a cost-effective choice for retaining walls. It’s easy to work with and offers a natural look.

• Pros: Inexpensive, easy to install, blends well with natural surroundings.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan, susceptible to rot and insects.
• Best For: Smaller walls and garden beds.

To extend the life of a wooden retaining wall, use pressure-treated wood and apply a wood preservative. Be cautious with treated wood near plants, as chemicals can harm them.

Masonry

Masonry includes materials like bricks, concrete blocks, and natural stone. These materials are sturdy and long-lasting.

• Pros: Durable, versatile, aesthetically pleasing.
• Cons: Can be expensive, requires skilled labor.
• Best For: Walls that need to withstand heavy loads and last for decades.

Natural stone options like granite and limestone offer a timeless look and exceptional durability. They can be more costly but provide a classic and neat finish.

Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is ideal for a sleek, modern look. It can be molded into any shape and dyed in various colors.

• Pros: Strong, customizable, low maintenance.
• Cons: Requires skilled labor, can crack over time if not properly reinforced.
• Best For: Modern designs and large-scale projects.

Integrating flower beds into a concrete wall can soften its industrial look and blend it with the landscape.

Granite

Granite is a premium material known for its strength and beauty. It’s perfect for high-end projects.

• Pros: Extremely durable, resistant to weather and wear, visually stunning.
• Cons: Expensive, heavy, requires professional installation.
• Best For: High-end residential and commercial landscapes.

Granite retaining walls can last a lifetime and add significant value to your property.

Pressure-Treated Pine

Pressure-treated pine is a good alternative to regular wood. It’s treated to resist rot and insects.

• Pros: More durable than untreated wood, cost-effective.
• Cons: Still has a finite lifespan, chemicals can leach into the soil.
• Best For: Budget-friendly projects where durability is still important.

When using pressure-treated pine, ensure proper drainage to prevent water from pooling and causing damage.

Choosing the Best Material

When choosing the right material for your landscape retaining wall, consider:

• Budget: Wood and masonry blocks are generally more affordable. Granite and poured concrete are more costly but offer greater durability.
• Aesthetics: Think about the look you want. Natural stone provides a classic appeal, while concrete offers a modern finish.
• Durability: For long-lasting walls, consider masonry or granite. Wood and pressure-treated pine are suitable for shorter-term solutions.
• Maintenance: Concrete and stone require less maintenance compared to wood.

By carefully selecting the right materials, you can build a landscape retaining wall that not only serves its purpose but also improves the beauty and value of your garden.

Next, let’s explore how to build a durable and effective retaining wall.

How to Build a Durable and Effective Retaining Wall

Building a durable and effective retaining wall involves careful planning, the right tools, quality materials, and proper techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Planning

Plan your layout. Use a rope or hose to outline the shape for free-form designs. For straight lines, use stakes, string, and marking paint. Avoid having downspouts pointed at the wall and keep soil well below any siding if the wall is near your house.

Estimate materials. Calculate the number of blocks you’ll need by dividing the total length of the wall by the length of a block. For rows, divide the ideal wall height by the height of a block, accounting for the first row to be half-buried. Always buy 10% more block than your estimate to cover breakage and future repairs.

Check local regulations. Before you start, check local building codes and homeowners association rules. Some areas may require permits.

Tools

Here are some key tools you’ll need:

• Shovel: For digging and preparing the base.
• Level: To ensure your wall is even.
• Back support: To protect yourself when handling heavy blocks.
• Marking paint: For outlining your wall’s layout.
• Paver saw: For cutting blocks to fit.

Materials

Choose materials based on your wall’s purpose and your budget. Common materials include:

• Interlocking blocks: Easy to assemble and provide good stability.
• Masonry blocks: Durable and versatile.
• Pressure-treated wood: Cost-effective but shorter lifespan.
• Poured concrete: Strong and customizable.

Prep and Lay

Prepare the foundation.

1. Excavate: Dig a trench deep enough to accommodate the first row of blocks, usually about 6 inches deep plus half the height of the first block. Ensure the trench is level.
2. Add base material: Fill the trench with a 4-6 inch layer of gravel or crushed stone. Compact it using a hand tamper or plate compactor.

Build the retaining wall.

1. Lay the first row: Place the first row of blocks in the trench, ensuring they are level and aligned. This row is crucial for the stability of the entire wall.
2. Stack additional rows: Stagger the blocks in each row to offset the joints from the row below. This improves the wall’s strength.
3. Backfill: As you build, backfill with gravel behind each row to improve drainage and stability.

Drainage

Proper drainage is vital to prevent water pressure from building up behind the wall.

• Gravel backfill: Use gravel as backfill material to allow water to flow through.
• Drainage pipe: Place a perforated drainage pipe at the base of the wall, sloping it to direct water away from the wall.

Footing Depth

The footing depth is crucial for stability and safety.

• Concrete footing: For walls over 3 feet high, a concrete footing is recommended. The footing should be twice as wide as the wall itself and rest on 6 inches of gravel set below the frost line.

By following these steps and using quality materials, you can build a landscape retaining wall that is both durable and effective, enhancing your garden’s beauty and functionality.

Next, let’s explore cost-effective solutions for landscape retaining walls.

Cost-Effective Solutions for Landscape Retaining Walls

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Building a landscape retaining wall can be a DIY project or done by professionals. Each option has its pros and cons.

DIY Installation:

• Pros:
• Cost Savings: You save on labor costs, which can be significant.
• Personal Satisfaction: Completing a project yourself can be very rewarding.
• Cons:
• Time-Consuming: Building a wall yourself can take a lot of time, especially if you’re inexperienced.
• Skill Level: Mistakes can be costly and may compromise the wall’s integrity.

Professional Installation:

• Pros:
• Expertise: Professionals have the experience to build durable and attractive walls.
• Efficiency: Projects are completed faster and with less hassle for you.
• Warranty: Many contractors offer warranties for their work.
• Cons:
• Higher Cost: Professional labor can be expensive, adding to the overall project cost.

Cost Estimates

The cost of a retaining wall varies based on materials, size, and complexity. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Basic Wood Retaining Wall: $15 to $25 per square foot
• Concrete Block Wall: $20 to $45 per square foot
• Natural Stone Wall: $25 to $75 per square foot

Additional Costs:

• Permits: $50 to $450
• Waterproofing: $2 to $10 per square foot
• Drainage Systems: $10 to $30 per linear foot

Material Choices

Choosing the right material impacts both the cost and durability of your wall.

Wood:

• Cost: Low
• Lifespan: Shorter, around 5-10 years
• Pros: Inexpensive and easy to work with
• Cons: Susceptible to rot and pests

Concrete Blocks:

• Cost: Moderate
• Lifespan: Long, 50+ years
• Pros: Durable and versatile
• Cons: Labor-intensive to install

Natural Stone:

• Cost: High
• Lifespan: Very long, potentially centuries
• Pros: Aesthetic appeal and durability
• Cons: Expensive and requires skilled labor

Poured Concrete:

• Cost: Moderate to High
• Lifespan: Long, 50+ years
• Pros: Highly durable and customizable
• Cons: Requires professional installation

Pressure-Treated Pine:

• Cost: Low to Moderate
• Lifespan: Moderate, 10-20 years
• Pros: Cost-effective and easy to install
• Cons: Requires maintenance to prevent decay

By weighing the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional installation and choosing the right materials, you can find cost-effective solutions for building a landscape retaining wall that meets your needs and budget.

Next, let’s explore how to improve your garden with landscape retaining walls.

Enhancing Your Garden with Landscape Retaining Walls

Raised Beds

Raised beds are a fantastic way to use landscape retaining walls. They lift your garden, making it easier to manage and more visually appealing. Raised beds can be constructed from various materials, including wood, stone, or concrete blocks.

Benefits:
– Easier Gardening: Raised beds are higher off the ground, reducing the need to bend over.
– Better Soil Control: You can control the soil quality and drainage, which is ideal for growing vegetables and flowers.
– Aesthetic Appeal: Raised beds add a structured and tidy look to your garden.

Multilevel Plantings

Creating multilevel plantings with retaining walls adds depth and interest to your garden. By breaking up a slope into multiple levels, you can create distinct planting areas for different types of plants.

Benefits:
– Visual Interest: Multilevel gardens are more visually interesting than flat gardens.
– Improved Plant Growth: Different plants thrive at different levels and exposures.
– Erosion Control: Multilevel plantings help manage runoff and reduce soil erosion.

Patio Spaces

Landscape retaining walls can also be used to create patio spaces. By leveling a sloped area, you can create a flat, usable space for outdoor activities.

Benefits:
– Functional Space: Retaining walls create a flat area perfect for patios, seating areas, or outdoor kitchens.
– Increased Home Value: A well-designed patio can increase the value of your home.
– Entertainment Area: Patios are great for entertaining guests and enjoying the outdoors.

Erosion Control

One of the primary functions of retaining walls is erosion control. They hold back soil and prevent it from washing away, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or on steep slopes.

Benefits:
– Soil Stability: Retaining walls keep soil in place, preventing landslides and erosion.
– Flood Prevention: By managing runoff, retaining walls can help prevent flooding in lower areas of your yard.
– Environmental Protection: Reducing erosion helps protect local waterways from sediment pollution.

Using landscape retaining walls to improve your garden offers a multitude of benefits. Whether you’re creating raised beds, multilevel plantings, patio spaces, or controlling erosion, these walls provide both functional and aesthetic improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions about Landscape Retaining Walls

What is the cheapest retaining wall to build?

The most cost-effective options for landscape retaining walls are wood and masonry block walls.

• Wood: Using railroad ties or pressure-treated wood can cost between $1,000 to $1,200 for a DIY project covering 100 square feet. If professionally installed, costs can range from $2,200 to $4,600.
• Masonry Block: Small concrete blocks for a DIY project might cost $1,000 to $2,300 for the same area, while larger decorative blocks professionally installed can range from $2,200 to $4,000.

How deep should a footing be for a retaining wall?

The footing, or base, of your retaining wall is crucial for stability. Here’s what you need to know:

• Depth: The footing should be 4 to 6 inches deep.
• Width: It should be about 12 inches wide, or twice the width of the blocks used.
• Placement: The blocks should sit about halfway into the soil.

Proper footing is essential for preventing structural issues like leaning or bulging.

What blocks should you use for retaining walls?

Choosing the right blocks depends on the strength and look you want for your landscape retaining wall. Here are some options:

• Regular Blocks: These stack together and rely on gravity to stay in place. They are simple but effective for shorter walls.
• Pin System Blocks: These blocks use pins for added security and are ideal for taller walls.
• Interlocking Blocks: They have a lip that creates a locking edge, providing extra fortification and stability.

Each type has its benefits, so consider your specific needs and the wall’s purpose when choosing the right blocks.

Conclusion

At McLeod Landscaping, we understand that landscape retaining walls are not just about functionality—they’re about enhancing the beauty and usability of your outdoor space. Our goal is to provide you with walls that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Why Choose McLeod Landscaping?

Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the landscaping industry, we bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to every project. Our team is equipped to handle all aspects of landscaping, from simple garden makeovers to complex hardscaping projects.

Customized Solutions: We believe that every outdoor space is unique. That’s why we offer personalized landscaping solutions custom to fit your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a serene garden retreat or a functional outdoor living area, we can help bring your vision to life.

Commitment to Sustainability: At McLeod Landscaping, we are dedicated to implementing sustainable practices in all our projects. From selecting native plants that thrive in local conditions to employing water-efficient techniques, we strive to create landscapes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.

Outstanding Customer Service: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We work closely with you throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, ensuring that every detail is to your liking.

Proven Track Record: Our reputation speaks for itself. We have consistently received high praise from our clients for our professionalism, reliability, and the exceptional quality of our work.

Ready to transform your outdoor space with a stunning and functional landscape retaining wall? Contact McLeod Landscaping today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards making your landscape vision come to life. Let us help you create an outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. At McLeod Landscaping, we’re not just building landscapes; we’re crafting the backdrop for your family’s best memories.