Retaining Wall Repair Price
| National average cost | $600 |
| Average range | $200-$1,200 |
| Minimum cost | $100 |
| Maximum cost | $5,000 |
How much does it cost to fix a retaining wall?
The final price depends on factors including:
- The type of material
- Width, length and height of the wall
- Reinforcement
- Decorative finishes
- Engineering
- Location of retaining wall
How much does it cost for a retaining wall?
To build a retaining wall, it can cost around $350/sq metre for quality retaining walls. But for simple retaining walls, it can cost around $140/sq metre. Costs vary depending on the materials used, labour price and wall size. Additionally, here are the retaining wall costs in different areas per square metre: Retaining Wall Cost per Square Metre
How to resurface a retaining wall cheap?
Inexpensive Retaining Wall Ideas | Cheapest Type of Retaining Wall | Retaining Wall Alternatives
- Dry-Stacked Wall Simple Retaining Wall Idea. ...
- Stone: Inexpensive Retaining Wall Ideas. ...
- Concrete Block: Inexpensive Retaining Wall Ideas. ...
- Mortar Wall: Cheap Retaining Wall Ideas. ...
- Gravel: Cost effective retaining wall ideas. ...
- Wood: Cost Effective Retaining Wall Ideas. ...
- Retaining Wall Alternative Ideas. ...
- Inexpensive retaining wall ideas FAQs. ...
How to build an affordable retaining wall?
- Using a tape measure, decide the length and the width of your retaining wall.
- Mark off the area with garden stakes and a mason’s line or other string. Tie the string to the stakes at the desired height of the wall. ...
- If your wall will be curved, use paint to mark the shape and location of the wall.
How much does it cost to straighten a retaining wall?
The average cost to straighten a retaining wall ranges from $50 to $70 per linear foot. You may need to straighten a retaining wall if it is leaning and seems like it may fall down.
How do you repair a damaged retaining wall?
The wall can be strengthened by transferring some of the shear force to the base where the wall meets the ground. This can be done by either extending the footing of the base or placing concrete to thicken the base. Installing anchors or tiebacks is another option for extra strength.
Can a cracked retaining wall be repaired?
But straightening a retaining wall requires a good deal of excavation- all the way down to the footer poured beneath the wall. Now that the wall is stabilized, the cracks can be filled with epoxy. (Crack repairs can be painted over, if the homeowner wishes.)
What is the life expectancy of a retaining wall?
Wood retaining walls last around 40 years. Stone and concrete retaining walls last between 50 and 100 years. Brick retaining walls last at least 100 years.
Can you fix a leaning retaining wall?
Retaining Wall Repair Options Whether a retaining wall is built of stone, block, concrete or wood, it can begin to lean. When this occurs, the homeowner has two choices: either demolish the wall, re-excavate, re-install drains and rebuild, or call in a foundation repair specialist.
What causes retaining walls to fail?
The main cause of retaining wall failure is poor drainage. Without proper drainage, hydrostatic pressure builds up behind the retaining wall. Saturated soil is substantially heavier than dry soil, and the retaining wall may not be designed to handle such a load.
How do you repair a deep crack in a retaining wall?
Concrete Wall Crack Repair in 8 StepsStep 1: Scrub it Clean. ... Step 2: Use a Nail to Align Injection Points. ... Step 3: Mix the Two-Part Epoxy Crack Sealer. ... Step 4: Spread the Sealer onto Base. ... Step 5: Mix and Apply a Larger Batch of Epoxy Sealer. ... Step 6: Dispense the LCR Epoxy. ... Step 7: Fill Up the Ports.More items...
How do you fix a big crack in a retaining wall?
1:213:22Repair a structural crack in a retaining block wall, just an explanationYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFolks if you have this problem here you're going to have to live with it number one but what we'reMoreFolks if you have this problem here you're going to have to live with it number one but what we're going to do is i'm going to put some of this uh adhesive caulking in here this stuff's.
How do you push a retaining wall back?
Here's how to push back a retaining wall:Check your building codes.Prepare the retaining wall area.Begin removal of the wall.Remove wall caps.Transport the dirt or debris to the new site.Construct a new foundation on the new site.Move the wall line to the new area.
How do you tell if a retaining wall is failing?
The three most common signs of a retaining wall in distress are (1) Leaning; 2) Cracking and 3) Bulging of the Wall or Segments. These are telltale indicators of a wall losing its fight and at risk of collapsing at any moment, including the worst possible moment: the middle of a rainstorm.
Can you insure a retaining wall?
Many insurance policies will, however, require there to be damage to the main property and not just the retaining wall, to make an accidental damage claim valid under a landslip clause. In that instance, repairs might be covered.
How do you maintain a retaining wall?
Everything You Need to Know About Retaining Wall MaintenanceInspect the Wall Regularly.Don't Treat Your Wall Beforehand.Remove Debris From Any Drainage Pipe.Fill in Eroded Areas.Replant Any Dead Spots.
How do you push a retaining wall back?
Here's how to push back a retaining wall:Check your building codes.Prepare the retaining wall area.Begin removal of the wall.Remove wall caps.Transport the dirt or debris to the new site.Construct a new foundation on the new site.Move the wall line to the new area.
How do you repair a concrete retaining wall?
1:233:01How to Repair Cracked Concrete Retaining Wall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo with that full of epoxy. We drive the bolts in and tomorrow after that's cured we can tightenMoreSo with that full of epoxy. We drive the bolts in and tomorrow after that's cured we can tighten them up a little bit to give it a bit of compression and so we also use that that epoxy in the crack.
How do you stop a retaining wall from failing?
Saturated Backfill Prevention tip: To prevent saturated backfill behind a retaining wall, the surface of the backfill needs to be properly graded to direct water away from the wall. If this is not possible, drainage channels need to be installed adjacent to the wall.
What is the best material for a retaining wall?
Poured concretePoured concrete is the strongest and most durable choice for retaining walls. It may also be carved and formed to look like mortared stone depending on your taste.
What to do after retaining wall is repaired?
After you have a retaining wall put in or repaired, it is always a good idea to ensure you have good drainage: french drains, weep holes, surface drains, and/or a V ditch. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
How long do retaining walls last?
Age of wall (retaining walls generally only last 50 to 90 years) Size of footing (was it large enough to adequately sustain the load) Type of Soil ( expansive soil can push out your retaining wall) Type of hillside/slant (how steep is the gradient)
What are the factors that determine a retaining wall?
Retaining Wall Repair Factors 1 The amount of lean 2 Age of wall (retaining walls generally only last 50 to 90 years) 3 Size of footing (was it large enough to adequately sustain the load) 4 Type of Soil ( expansive soil can push out your retaining wall) 5 Type of hillside/slant (how steep is the gradient) 6 If it was properly made in the first place (The Contractor Repair Industry is full of space cadets).
What is retaining wall?
A retaining wall is a strong, solid barrier utilized to support soil laterally so as to “retain” the soil at two separate levels on either border. These structures are designed to harness soil to a slope that would otherwise naturally not exist. Retaining walls are used to mitigate soil failure and are a favorite form of slope stabilization.
Why are retaining walls important?
Retaining walls intercept the slope, take the load, and hold it in place. Retaining walls can secure one of your greatest financial investments: your home. New retaining walls, while they can be pricey, are worth the investment because it keeps your home and family safe.
Is a Waler beam necessary for a repair?
Waler beam is not always necessary for the repair, which can lower the cost significantly. Example of Waler Beam. In short, the helical piers/tiebacks provide additional lateral load-bearing support and are further braced by the waler beam, providing the entire wall with considerable reinforcement.
How much does it cost to repair a retaining wall?
So, what’s the bottom line about the cost to repair a retaining wall? A simple, small wall can cost as little a $800 to $1,000, while an involved project with backfill, labor and excavation can cost upwards of $20,000.
What factors affect the cost of retaining wall repair?
Materials and Labor. When considering the potential cost of repairing a retaining wall, keep in mind a lot of factors can affect the cost. Materials and labor are the two obvious factors, but even those can vary widely from job to job – it’s why a Google search for retaining wall repair costs can yield such a frustrating range of answers.
Why do you need an engineer to build a retaining wall?
Avoid the temptation to go with the lowest offer, because you may end up working with contractors who are cutting corners. If a retaining wall will affect the stability of a building lot, it may need the services of an engineer to ensure that it is properly built to stand up for the long term.
Does the wall itself add to the cost of a repair?
The wall itself will add to the cost. If the repair requires a new design, then you will pay designing costs. Then, the materials to repair the wall will add to the cost. Many factors will increase or decrease this cost.
How much does it cost to build a brick retaining wall?
The average homeowner will pay $35 per square foot and spend between $2,450 and $6,650 to build a retaining wall.
How much does a cinder block retaining wall cost?
A cinder block retaining wall costs $20 to $35 per square foot or $60 to $210 per linear foot, depending on the height. A cinder block retaining wall needs a poured concrete or gravel foundation, footings, and grout filling and rebar for support.
What is the best material for retaining walls?
Wood is a material that is in ready supply and probably the most affordable retaining wall material. Can be built up to 4’ tall or 5’–6’ with treated railroad ties and/or reinforcing steel rods. Pressure-treated Douglas fir is the best wood for avoiding rot. Quite easy to install.
Why are walls important in landscaping?
Retaining walls can protect a building foundation and stop it from shifting or falling when there is a steep incline in your yard space. They can also improve irrigation to landscaping on higher slopes. They can add attractive design features to your landscaping, adding some punctuation around flowerbeds and allowing for certain areas to be featured.
How thick is real stone?
Typically available in thicknesses around ⅛ of an inch, real stone is cut from larger slabs. Manufactured stone products are made in molds with added color dyes and surface finishes to complete the look of natural stone. Surface resistant to rot and pests. These can be added to a strong core.
What happens when you freeze brick?
Exposure to freezing conditions – Freezing water can damage the bonding between the more porous brick and the engineering brick, resulting in either damage to a portion of the wall or the entire wall. Drainage – Without adequate drainage, a buildup of hydrostatic pressure behind the wall will damage the wall.
How to protect your foundation?
Protect your foundation – by preventing soil from sliding. If there are known fault lines in the area, this is one option to mitigate this risk. Manage water runoff – diverts water away from the home. Create more usable land - creates more usable yard space by converting steep slopes into living spaces.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Contractors
On average, building a retaining wall costs $23 per square foot. For the more budget-conscious, retaining wall prices average at $19 per square foot. On the upper end, retaining wall costs are around $50 per square foot.
Retaining Wall Cost Per Square Foot
As with other building materials such as pavers or roofing, square footage is a convenient way to compare the cost of different types of retaining wall materials. The length of the retaining wall multiplied by its height helps you calculate its total square footage.
Retaining Wall Cost by Material Type
The type of materials used for the retaining wall is a two-tier factor in the overall cost of the retaining wall.
Retaining Wall Block Costs
Retaining wall block has become one of the most popular types of materials to build retaining walls. With its front lip and tipped back profile, it is one of the few materials designed expressly for retaining walls.
Retaining Wall Labor Cost
Along with the cost of materials, the second half of the pricing equation—and sometimes the most important half—is the cost of labor to build the retaining wall.
Bottom Line
The type of retaining wall that you choose depends as much on your needs as on your budget. If you need to replace a retaining wall that is in danger of falling down or if you have a slope dangerously encroaching on your property, building a functional, safe retaining wall of any type is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Wood and masonry retaining wall block are the two cheapest materials to use for building retaining walls.
What is a retaining wall?
A retaining wall is any structure that holds soil in place behind it. As such, they’re instrumental in preventing a landslide from destroying property and endangering lives. They’re used for a wide range of applications both large and small. These include: Enormous soil-retaining projects alongside highways.
What is the most important part of retaining walls?
Yet, the most important part of retaining wall construction is the materials they’re made from.
What is a segmented retaining wall?
Segmental retaining walls are a type of reinforced gravity wall that works well for both residential and commercial sites. They’re especially good for high-sloped terrain and usually have no height restrictions.
What is a block retaining wall made of?
They’re made from heavy materials like concrete blocks, cast-in-place concrete, or stone. Block retaining walls work well in these settings as they automatically form a setback that helps support the pressure of the soil behind the wall.
How to use gabion mess walls?
Gabion mess walls are most often used along streams to prevent erosion. They consist of rectangular wire mesh baskets filled with rocks. The next step is to stack the ‘bricks’, angle them back against the slope, and tie them together. Gabion mesh walls only last as long as it takes for the metal basket to corrode.
How high should a gravity wall be?
They’re usually short walls under 4-feet high, so they’re cheaper to build. Gravity walls are self-supporting up to 10-feet, although you’ll need a permit to build one higher than 4-feet.
Which wall lasts the longest?
The more durable materials like concrete and stone will last longer. A brick wall has the longest lifespan of all. Choosing a knowledgeable contractor’s the best way to ensure your wall lasts as long as possible.
How much does it cost to fix a wall?
The cost to fix a wall averages most homeowners between $357 and $1,173 but the type of wall impacts the cost considerably. Most household walls are made from either drywall or plaster. While most newer homes use drywall, many older homes that use plaster.
How much does it cost to repair a hole in a wall?
Large holes in walls costs between $150 to $400 to repair. This type of problem can be caused by household repairs (plumbing work or remodeling), water, fire, and other household accidents. Factors that affect the costs includes the finish and texture, location of the damage, materials used and if a remediation contractor (for mold) must be hired. If structural damage was incurred when the hole was made, this too will affect the cost. Homeowners who can repair large holes on their own may save money, but larger holes may require special tools and equipment. Unless the tools are already on hand, this can negatively impact your savings.
How much does a handyman cost to repair a wall?
Here are a few common factors that affect the final project price. The price to hire a handyman or wall repair contractor is approximately $60 to $80 per hour. Handymen are less expensive to hire than contractors.
How much does it cost to fix water damage?
These may be inexpensive to repair at about $400 per 100 square feet of wall, but mold remediation costs more ( on average around $2,300) and may be necessary to ensure the health and safety of the people in your home. In addition, if structural damage has occurred, studs, joists, and other parts of the wall may need to be repaired. A qualified contractor can determine what needs to be fixed and give you a quote.
What are the problems with basement walls?
Water intrusion and cracks are a common problem in basements. Cracks that run all the way through the wall may need to be repaired from the interior and exterior. Problems can range from water sealing to an insecure foundation.
What causes damage to a wall?
Damage is typically caused by household accidents, rodents, and removal of obsolete fixtures. Factors that affect cost includes whether the walls need to be repainted, finished or textured, location of the problem, materials used, and if a contractor must be hired to complete the task.
How much does it cost to waterproof a concrete wall?
The cost to waterproof a concrete wall runs between $3 and $9 per square foot, while the price to fix wood averages between $30 to $100 per hour for a carpenter. At the first signs of an issue, it's important to hire a restoration company quickly to prevent mold from growing.
How much does it cost to build a retaining wall?
The average cost to build a retaining wall is around $50 per sq.ft. This includes both the materials and labor costs.
How much does a reinforced wall cost?
It’s also made of masonry or concrete, and usually starts with a concrete slab. It will have steel bars embedded and costs between $20 and $25 per square foot.
How tall should a retaining wall be?
Many landscapers will also build retaining walls. However, if you plan on having the wall be more than 4-feet in height or you have special concerns about the weight of the area being held, you will need to involve a structural engineer in the project.
What is retaining wall made of?
Retaining walls can be made out of an extensive range of materials. Some will be dictated by the type of wall, while others may be dictated by the height of the wall. In some instances, the only differences may be cosmetic and personal, as they relate to your landscaping.
Why do we need retaining walls?
The main use of a retaining wall is to retain soil. They help prevent soil erosion that can come from hills; a retaining wall creates a sharp divide between two elevations and stops soil from running downhill.
What is a counterfort wall?
A counterfort wall is essentially a cantilever wall that has “wings” or sections moving off in different directions on the sides. This is a good wall for pool areas or for framing sections of landscaping. They are also made of masonry or concrete that is reinforced with steel bars and cost between $20 and $25 per square foot.
How much does a criblock cost?
It’s constructed into a grid pattern that allows the concrete to drain better than a solid wall. They cost between $25 and $30 per square foot to construct.
Cost by Type of Materials
Cost by Type of Repair
- Retaining walls are man-made structures, and nature always has its way. Homeowners pay $40 to an upward of $1500 in repair damages depending on the type of repair. Note that the quoted price is labor inclusive.
Cost by Solution
- This section explains what various service members and contractors will charge depending on the method used to repair the wall. Charges include: 1. Patching 2. Anchoring 3. Straightening 4. Reinforcing A contractor will typically assess the damage before recommending a solution. Some solutions cost more than others, as shown below:
Retaining Walls Inspection Costs
- Before undertaking any repairs, the damaged retaining walls should be assessed by a qualified engineer or contractor to map out the repair type, method, and other solutions. The fees differ from state to state, so you should expect to pay your contractor 50 to 150 bucks. Some contractors demand a call-out fee of $50 to $100 to cover them after assessing your home, and …
Final Thoughts
- Installing a retaining wall is a costly affair (although cheaper options are available) and repairing one isn’t cheaper either. However, you can get a pretty decent repair for your budget, depending on your state. The fact is that retaining walls degrade over time. Repairs are an expense that ought to happen at some point, and they’re necessary to keep the wall in good shape over the ye…
Sources
Materials and Labor
Excavation and Ground Preparation
- Before the wall can be repaired, the area will need to be prepared properly, which may require some basic excavation. If the area is sloped or needs a grade added, it will cost more than a level area. Excavation includes removing soil, sod and brush, then grading the area. Once the unwanted soil is removed, the area must be prepared. Most types of soil must be compacted before the w…
The Wall
- The wall itself will add to the cost. If the repair requires a new design, then you will pay designing costs. Then, the materials to repair the wall will add to the cost. Many factors will increase or decrease this cost. The height and length of the wall, the amount of damage, the materials used in the wall and any additional features, such as drains, that the design demands.
Labor and Engineering Costs
- Finally, you will pay labor and engineering costs for a retaining wall repair. Labor costs include the cost of the workers who build the wall as well as the necessary permits and inspection fees. Labor is where the costs can vary from one contractor to the next. Avoid the temptation to go with the lowest offer, because you may end up working with c...