Concrete Retaining Wall Cost – The Concrete Network

Poured retaining walls with elaborate curves require complex formwork and will drive up cost for a wall.

The total cost to have a concrete retaining wall installed will be a combination of material and labor prices. For a basic wall you can expect to pay between $30 and $40 per square foot. If you add a decorative finish, curves, steps, lighting or other upgrades, the cost will rise.

What factors influence the cost of a concrete wall?

For Ralston, $39 per square foot is the average cost he charges for a wall under 4 feet tall. For walls below 4 feet, he says his prices are often competitive with finished block. A block wall has to be stuccoed or finished with veneer, while a concrete wall does not need an added finish. If the concrete mix was integrally colored, all you need to do is remove the forms. This can be an area where concrete has a cost advantage over other retaining wall materials. Furthermore, concrete walls can be stamped to look like stone at a much lower price than a natural stone wall.

Protecting Your InvestmentHiring a contractor who is experienced with pouring concrete walls will ensure that you get a quality product that will last for years. When constructing a concrete wall it is imperative that the forms be built properly, or else the end result could have waves or bulges that make it appear sloppy. Waterproofing and drainage are also important elements of wall construction that Ralston stresses as essential. He warns that without the proper waterproofing, moisture could move through the wall and discolor the finished surface. Without the proper drainage, hydrostatic pressure could build up behind the wall and cause it to lean outwards. Fixing these problems can be quite costly and may even lead to demolishing the existing wall and re-pouring fresh concrete with the proper construction methods. To avoid maintenance issues, costly repairs or complete replacement, shop around for a contractor with proven experience in building concrete retaining walls.

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Concrete Retaining Wall Cost - The Concrete Network