However, retaining walls can be a great way to fix sloped yards. But how much does it cost to build them? How much digging and leveling are you going to need? What kind of landscaping will surround it? How much labor will it cost? All of these factors play a part in determining the price of a retaining wall. A retaining wall company should give you a rough estimate before they visit the property.
Materials for retaining wall materials
Retaining walls can be costly. Materials used for their construction include steel, stone, and wood. Concrete poured can be as high as $30-40 per square foot. Interlocking concrete blocks can run around $15 per square feet. Concrete is the most durable material, but it is susceptible to shifting in heavy storms and seismic activity. This makes concrete one of the most costly options for retaining wall construction.
A few factors affect the cost of a retaining walls: the height and width of the wall, the access to the site and the backfill material. Cost will be determined by whether or not you decide to build your own DIY retaining wall. You can make an informed decision about the information you have gathered before you dig or prepare the site for construction. Also, be sure to inquire about any special requirements you may have for your retainingwall.
Permits are required
There are many permit requirements when building a retaining wall. In some cases, permits can be submitted concurrently with building permit application, and the permit process can be simplified by including the retaining wall project in the building permit package. Retaining wall are a public trust structure and the design criteria are determined by soils and geoological reports. The plans for the wall should include details of the design and construction, such as the dimensions and materials of the walls.
The Jefferson County Treasurer will issue a permit to build a wall. If your wall is over 12 feet tall, you will need a permit from a professional engineer. To obtain the permit, you need to submit a stamped copy of your Miscellaneous Permit application. Make sure you include all critical points along the wall’s length. In some cases, permits may be required for residential retaining walls.
Construction methods
There are many options for building retaining walls. The sheet pile wall is the most popular method for retaining walls. It is best used in areas with limited space and soft soil. Sheet piles can be made from a variety materials and can vary in height according to the area. If a wall is taller than three feet, it will require a tie-back anchor set behind the face of the wall and extending into the ground behind a potential failure plane.
Before you begin building a retention wall, it is important that you determine the area’s dimensions. First dig a trench as deep and wide as you can. Make sure the wall fits in the trench. Then, lay down landscape fabric and make sure it is level. Next, lay a second layer of blocks in staggered patterns. Use adhesive to adhere each block. Once the first layer is set, dig a trench approximately 450mm deep and up to the desired height.
Labor cost
The labor cost for retaining walls can vary depending on the project. For easy access, contractors can use large earthmoving machines to complete the job. Manual labor can be required in areas that are more difficult to access and can prove costly. The cost of your project may increase if you hire a professional landscape architect. Learn from someone who has worked in this area to reduce labor costs for retaining walls.
A solid base, such as concrete, gravel or sand is necessary for retaining walls. The walls must be constructed in a way that excess water can run off. There will be a wide range of costs for drainage materials. Some fill material can be found on site. It will take longer and more labor to construct a retaining walls if the site is difficult or inaccessible. Some retaining walls need waterproofing.