Concrete Retaining Walls - Cost, Lifespan, and Factors

Concrete Retaining Walls

Building a concrete retaining wall is a significant investment, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits to your property. Whether you’re looking to control soil erosion, create level terraces, or enhance your landscape, understanding the costs involved is crucial. Concrete retaining walls vary in price depending on several factors, including the materials used, wall dimensions, site conditions, and design complexity.

Here, we break down the common types of concrete retaining walls and the factors that influence their costs.

Besser Block Retaining Walls

Besser Block Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Wall Height and Length: More materials and labour needed for larger walls.
  • Site Conditions: Difficult terrains require more preparation.
  • Design Complexity: Custom designs increase costs.
  • Reinforcement Requirements: Additional reinforcement for stability, core filled with concrete and steel.

Life Expectancy

An Australian Retaining Wall Besser block retaining wall can last 60 plus years with proper maintenance.

Average Cost of Besser Block Retaining Walls

From $650 -$850 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, reinforcement and installation.

Quotation Form Case Studies

Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls

Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Installation Complexity: Complex designs and layouts increase labour costs.
  • Site Preparation: Challenging sites add to preparation time and cost.
  • Drainage Solutions: Proper drainage systems can add to the overall cost.

Life Expectancy

In our experience Concrete sleeper retaining walls typically last 15 to 25 years.

Average Cost of Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls

Starting at $480 to $680 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

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Crib Retaining Walls

Crib Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Material Type: The type of crib units used impacts cost.
  • Wall Dimensions: Taller and longer walls require more materials.
  • Construction Complexity: More complex designs increase labour costs.
  • Site Conditions: Challenging terrain can add to preparation time and cost.

Life Expectancy

Crib retaining walls typically last 40 plus years.

Average Cost of Crib Retaining Walls

Starting at $680 to $860 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

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Diamond Block Retaining Walls

Diamond Block Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Block Quality: Higher quality blocks increase costs.
  • Wall Height: Taller walls require more blocks and reinforcement.
  • Design Complexity: Custom designs add to labour and material costs.
  • Site Conditions: Difficult terrain increases preparation time.

Life Expectancy

Diamond block retaining walls can last 50 plus years.

Average Cost of Diamond Block Retaining Walls

Starting at $450 to $680 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

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Flush Face Garden Wall Concrete Blocks

Flush Face Garden Wall Concrete Blocks

Cost Factors

  • Block Type: The specific type of concrete block affects cost.
  • Wall Dimensions: Larger walls require more materials.
  • Design and Finish: Custom designs and finishes increase costs.
  • Site Accessibility: Difficult access sites add to labour costs.

Life Expectancy

Flush face garden wall concrete blocks can last 50 plus years.

Average Cost of Flush Face Garden Wall Concrete Blocks

Starting at $360 to $460 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

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Keystone Vertica & Heron Retaining Walls

Keystone Vertica Heron Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Material Quality: Higher quality materials increase costs.
  • Wall Height: Taller walls require more reinforcement.
  • Design Complexity: Custom designs and finishes add to the cost.
  • Site Conditions: Challenging terrain adds to preparation costs.

Life Expectancy

Keystone Vertica Heron retaining walls can last 50 plus years.

Average Cost of Keystone Vertica Heron Retaining Walls

Starting at $450 to $680 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

Quotation Form Case Studies

Windsor Stone Block Retaining Walls

Windsor Keystone Garden Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Material Type: The type of blocks used impacts cost.
  • Wall Dimensions: Larger walls require more materials and labour.
  • Design Complexity: Custom designs add to overall costs.
  • Site Accessibility: Difficult access increases labour costs.

Life Expectancy

Windsor Stone Block retaining walls typically last 50 plus years.

Average Cost of Windsor Stone Block Retaining Walls

Starting at $360 to $460 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

Quotation Form Case Studies

Terrace Block Retaining Walls

Terrace Block Retaining Walls

Cost Factors

  • Block Quality: Higher quality blocks increase costs.
  • Wall Height: Taller walls require more reinforcement.
  • Construction Complexity: Complex designs add to labour costs.
  • Site Conditions: Difficult terrain adds to preparation time and cost.

Life Expectancy

Terrace block retaining walls can last 20 plus years.

Average Cost of Terrace Block Retaining Walls

Starting at $360 to $460 per square metre, including standard design, basic excavation, and installation.

Quotation Form Case Studies

 

Understanding the costs associated with concrete retaining walls helps you budget effectively for your project. With a range of options available, from Besser blocks to keystone systems, you can select the best solution that fits both your aesthetic preferences and functional needs. For a custom quote and to discuss your project in detail, contact Australian Retaining Walls today.

The above information is indicative only, and would be for average conditions and a minimum of 30m2.

These amounts are excluding GST. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, Australian Retaining Walls accepts no responsibility for any error or omission.

Australian Retaining Walls has a standard minimum job fee of $4,000 plus GST

If you require an onsite consultation or have your site plan ready to email (soft copy please). Please head over to our Quotation Form.

Better Built Walls

Choosing the Right Retaining Wall Builder

Selecting the right contractor for your retaining wall project is vital to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. Here are some key tips to guide you in finding a reliable and skilled professional:

Start with Recommendations and Research

  • Local Experts: Look for local retaining wall specialists with good reputations.
  • Personal Insights: Ask friends, family, or neighbours for their recommendations.
  • Online Insights: Use reviews and testimonials to gauge a builder’s performance and reliability.

Verify Credentials and Past Work

  • Credentials Check: Ensure your contractor is licensed, & insured, which confirms they meet legal and professional standards.
  • Portfolio Review: Request to see past projects to evaluate their craftsmanship, design capabilities, and material use.

Gather and Compare Quotes

  • Detailed Estimates: Obtain detailed quotes from multiple contractors, ensuring they include materials, labour, timelines, and any extra services.
  • Balanced Decisions: Compare these quotes to find a balance between cost and quality, avoiding suspiciously low bids that might compromise on quality.

Check References and Experience

  • Client Feedback: Contact previous clients to learn about their experiences and satisfaction levels.
  • Expertise Matters: Inquire about the builder’s specific experience with retaining walls to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

Ensure Clear Communication and Transparency

  • Open Communication: Choose a contractor who is responsive and clear about potential challenges and costs.
  • Thorough Contracts: Ensure all project details, costs, and timelines are clearly outlined in the contract before signing.

Warranty and Compliance

  • Guarantees: Ask about warranties or guarantees on both materials and workmanship to ensure peace of mind.
  • Regulatory Adherence: Make sure the builder is aware of and complies with local regulations, including necessary permits.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

  • Beware of Low Bids: Extremely low quotes may indicate subpar materials or workmanship. Opt for fair pricing that reflects quality and reliability.
  • Understand the Contract: Carefully read and understand the contract to ensure all aspects of the project are covered and there are no hidden costs.

Additional Considerations

  • Site Accessibility: Discuss any potential access issues with your builder, as difficult access can increase costs.
  • Design and Material Choices: Your choices in design and materials will significantly impact the final cost and should be discussed in detail.

By following these tips, you can confidently select a retaining wall builder who will deliver quality results, ensuring your project is both beautiful and long-lasting. For expert advice and high-quality retaining wall solutions, contact Australian Retaining Walls today.

0414 321 307

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    Transparent Pricing:

    Clear, competitive pricing for all retaining wall projects, with no surprises, just straightforward costs tailored to your needs.

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