Cost Drivers
Wall height and length are the base. Taller walls need deeper footings, more reinforcement, and often engineering — they cost significantly more per square foot than short walls. Material choice (poured concrete, block, timber) affects price. Excavation depth and soil conditions. Drainage system behind the wall (drain rock and pipe — non-negotiable). Finish (smooth, stamped, textured). Access for equipment.
Why Taller Walls Cost Disproportionately More
A 6-foot wall doesn't cost 50% more than a 4-foot wall — it can cost double or more. Taller walls need engineering, deeper footings, heavier reinforcement, and more excavation. The soil pressure behind a tall wall is exponentially greater. This is why we assess each wall individually.
Why We Quote After the Walk
Every retaining wall is engineered to the specific site — soil, height, load, drainage. We assess on-site, design the wall (footing, reinforcement, drainage), and give you a written quote. There's no standard per-square-foot price because no two walls face the same conditions.
What's Always Included
Proper footing, reinforcement, and drainage behind the wall. A wall without drainage is a wall that will fail — water pressure builds up behind it and pushes it over. We never skip drainage, no matter the budget.