There are a variety of blocks and natural stone to use when building retaining walls. Whether installing a wall yourself or having a landscape contractor install a wall, make sure you get a high-quality block or natural stone.
Why Build a Retaining Wall?
- Holding back soil
- Controlling water drainage
- Creating more flat space in a sloped yard
- Building a patio w/ wall
- Raised gardens
Block Retaining Wall
- Most popular material used for retaining walls
- Poured concrete blocks
- Smaller blocks for plant beds, terraces and/or small/short walls
- Easy to use, even for DIY’ers
- Cheaper than natural stone and wide variety of colors
- Curves are more difficult, needing special cuts and pieces
Natural Stone Retaining Wall
- Natural stone like boulders
- Stack large, heavy boulders in a line
- Fabric is used in gaps to prevent water coming through
- Usually need heavy equipment to install
- More unique, natural look than block walls
- More labor intensive, as rocks/boulders are HEAVY!
Important for ANY Wall you choose
- Use/install a good base like class 5
- Make sure your base is level
- Don’t forget about the proper drainage
