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Types of Retaining Walls and Services Available to Hire

Retaining Walls

Retaining Walls

Block Retaining Walls

Block Retaining Walls

Rock Retaining Walls

Rock Retaining Walls

Gabion Retaining Walls

Gabion Retaining Walls

713 Retaining Wall Builders on iseekplant

iseekplant is Australia's go-to online marketplace connecting individuals and businesses with top-quality retaining wall builders. With over 713 professional builders listed, finding the right expert for your project is just a click away. Whether you're looking to fortify a hillside garden or create usable space in a sloped area, our platform makes the search easy and efficient.

This quick guide breaks down retaining wall rates, cost estimates, types of retaining walls, common materials and their pros and cons to help you choose the perfect option for your project.

Retaining Walls Rates Guide

Whether you're planning a new construction or refurbishing an existing structure, our guide ensures you make informed decisions to get the best value for your investment. This table breaks down the average cost to build retaining walls for every budget and project size:

Wall Size/Type Wet Hire Rate (AUD) Dry Hire Rate (AUD) Additional Notes
Small - Timber $250 - $350 per m^2 $200 - $280 per m^2 Prices may vary depending on complexity
Medium - Stone $300 - $500 per m^2 $240 - $420 per m^2 Includes natural stone options
Large - Concrete $450 - $700 per m^2 $380 - $600 per m^2 Ideal for commercial projects

Note: Rates are approximate averages and may vary based on location, specific requirements and market demand. All prices listed are estimates, exclude GST and are in AUD.

Retaining Walls Building Cost Estimates

Like other services, suppliers from different cities charge differently according to market demands, changes to material prices and other factors that can affect the final quote. The table below compares average estimates of suppliers from each major city:

City Cost per Square Metre (AUD)
Sydney $250 - $500
Melbourne $220 - $480
Brisbane $230 - $490
Perth $210 - $470
Adelaide $200 - $450
Canberra $240 - $490
Hobart $210 - $460
Darwin $230 - $500

The above estimates include labour and materials but exclude additional costs such as excavation, drainage or council permits. The differences in cost are due to material choices, design complexity, labour costs and other regional factors.

Additional Costs to Consider

Now, you should have a solid idea of the initial costs of building a retaining wall. But like other projects, you must account for additional costs to help you set a budget properly. The table below highlights some potential costs your project may incur:

Cost Type Estimated Cost (AUD) Additional Information
Design and Planning $100 - $500 Based on complexity
Soil Testing $300 - $1,000 Essential for larger projects
Excavation and Site Prep $50 - $150 per hour Depends on accessibility
Drainage Installation $30 - $90 per m^2 Prevents water damage
Permits and Licenses $50 - $500 Varies by local regulations

Keep in mind, the rates on this page are estimates. For an accurate quote tailored to your requirements, use our Get a Quote tool, and we’ll connect you with local professionals.

Types of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are essential structures that hold back soil and prevent erosion, offering both functional support and aesthetic appeal to various landscapes. On the iseekplant platform, we categorize these walls based on their construction methods and materials.

Below, let's look at the diverse types of retaining walls available to best suit your project needs.

  • Block Retaining Wall: Block retaining walls are modular systems offering a modern design with each block interlocking into the next.
  • Rock Retaining Wall: Rock retaining walls are large rocks stacked together, combining strength and a natural aesthetic.
  • Gabion Retaining Wall: Gabion retaining walls are built like cages or boxes filled with rocks or concrete, offering both strength and flexibility.
  • Boulder Retaining Wall: Boulder retaining walls utilise larger boulders stacked together, perfect for holding back significant soil amounts.
  • Concrete Sleeper Wall: Made of upright concrete posts and horizontal sleepers, concrete sleeper walls are popular for their durability in various applications.
  • Gravity Wall: Rely on their weight to hold back the soil.
  • Anchored Wall: Use anchors placed in the soil behind the wall for added strength.
  • Cantilevered Wall: Built with a stem or thin vertical wall attached to a base slab.
  • Sheet Piling Wall: Sheet piling are thin walls of steel, wood or vinyl driven into the ground, ideal for tight spaces.
  • Reinforced Wall: Combine reinforcing bars with concrete for added durability.

Applications of Different Retaining Wall Types

This table highlights the best applications for different retaining wall types:

Type of Retaining Wall Best Applications
Block Retaining Wall Residential landscaping; Terraced gardens; Any setting where aesthetics and functionality are crucial
Rock Retaining Wall Garden landscapes; Any application that requires a seamless blend to natural surroundings
Gabion Retaining Wall Erosion control in river banks; Landscaping; Noise barriers on highways
Boulder Retaining Wall Larger landscapes such as parks and commercial areas; Ideal for soil retention
Concrete Sleeper Wall Residential backyards; Large commercial areas
Gravity Wall Landscaping in residential areas; Small garden beds; Low height requirements
Cantilevered Wall Roadsides and highways; Commercial properties with significant height differences; Urban infrastructures
Sheet Piling Wall Waterfront properties; Coastal embankments; Areas with limited space for wall construction
Anchored Wall Steep slopes or cliffs; Areas with soft soils; When additional strength is needed without increasing wall thickness
Reinforced Soil or MSE Highways; Large commercial properties; Urban areas with high traffic loads

Pros and Cons of Different Retaining Wall Types

Every retaining wall type has its advantages and potential drawbacks, depending on a project's specific requirements. As you compare the options available, understanding these pros and cons can help guide your decision:

Type of Retaining Wall Pros Cons
Block Retaining Wall Modular design allows for flexibility in construction; Aesthetically pleasing and can be customised with various finishes; Durable and requires minimal maintenance Installation requires precision to ensure stability; Drainage is essential to prevent pressure build-up; Might need reinforcement for taller walls
Rock Retaining Wall Natural look integrates well with the landscape; Excellent drainage properties; Long lifespan with little maintenance Construction can be time-consuming; Requires skilled labour for proper construction; Potential for weed growth between rocks
Gabion Retaining Wall Highly permeable, preventing water buildup; Can be filled with recycled materials; Flexible structure that can tolerate ground movement Wire cages can corrode over time; May not be as visually appealing to some; Filling process can be labour-intensive
Boulder Retaining Wall Provides a natural and rugged appearance; Boulders lock together, providing strength; Excellent for creating terraced gardens Boulders can be heavy and challenging to position; Limited in height without reinforcement; Proper construction is vital to prevent shifting over time
Concrete Sleeper Wall Extremely durable and long-lasting; Resistant to pests and rot; Can be textured or coloured for aesthetic appeal Heavier than other options and may require machinery for installation; Can be more expensive than other materials; Requires proper drainage to prevent hydrostatic pressure
Gravity Wall Simple design and construction; Cost-effective for shorter walls; Flexible in terms of materials used Limited to short height; Can be unstable if not properly constructed; Needs a large base for stability
Cantilevered Wall Uses less material than gravity walls; Can achieve greater heights; Effective for deep excavations Requires careful engineering and construction; Not as aesthetically pleasing; Drainage is crucial to prevent pressure build-up
Sheet Piling Wall Perfect for tight spaces; Rapid installation; Can be used in waterlogged conditions Limited to softer soils; Might corrode over time; Limited in terms of aesthetics
Anchored Wall Provides additional strength for thin walls; Flexible design options; Suitable for a variety of soil types Complex construction; Requires regular maintenance; Anchoring system must be precise
Reinforced Soil or MSE Can handle significant loads; Flexible and can adapt to ground movements; Drainage-friendly design Requires specific and quality materials; Proper installation is crucial; Not suited for all types of soil

Materials Used in Retaining Wall Building

Retaining walls are as varied in material as they are in design, each offering unique aesthetic and functional qualities. The choice of material plays a crucial role in the wall's durability, cost and the overall look of the finished structure.

In this section, we'll explore different materials commonly used in retaining wall construction, helping you make an informed choice for your project.

  • Timber: Natural look, ideal for gardens or low walls.
  • Stone: Durable and visually appealing, often used in decorative walls.
  • Concrete: Offers strength and longevity, common in commercial projects.
  • Brick: Classic appearance, requires a solid foundation.
  • Steel Sheets: Used in sheet piling, resistant to corrosion.

Pros and Cons of the Common Materials Used in Retaining Walls

Every building material has its strengths and weaknesses, and retaining walls are no exception. Let's look at the pros and cons of these common materials:

Material Pros Cons
Timber Aesthetically pleasing and natural look; Relatively low cost; Easy to install Limited lifespan due to potential rot and decay; Can be susceptible to pests; Not for high walls
Stone Durable and long-lasting; Natural appearance; Good drainage properties Higher cost compared to some materials; Requires skilled installation; Heavy
Concrete Extremely durable and strong; Suitable for tall walls; Versatile aesthetic options Can be more expensive; May appear too industrial for some preferences; Installation can be complex
Brick Classic appearance; Durable and strong; Resistant to fire Mortar joints can deteriorate over time; Limited design flexibility; Installation can be tedious
Steel Sheets Ideal for tight spaces and temporary solutions; Relatively lightweight; Quick installation Prone to rust if not treated; May not be as aesthetically pleasing; Limited in design options

In selecting the right material for your retaining wall, it's crucial to strike a balance between aesthetics, functionality, longevity and budget. Each material presents unique benefits and challenges, so consider your project's specific needs and environmental conditions.

With informed choices, you can ensure the longevity and stability of your retaining wall, complementing the landscape for years to come.

Ready to Build Your Retaining Wall?

iseekplant connects you with top retaining wall builders across Australia. Whether you need a simple timber wall or a reinforced concrete structure, our platform has you covered. Start by sharing your requirements and receive multiple quotes from trusted professionals.

For assistance or queries, reach out at projects@iseekplant.com.au or call 1300 691 912. If you're set to begin, click 'Get a Quote' now.

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Recent Retaining Walls reviews

INSTANT TURF
INSTANT TURFCaroline Springs VIC
(Aug 2024)

"Real Achievement in Completion of my Landscape project, thank you"

- JohnView profile
Earthtrim earthworks
Earthtrim earthworksLochinvar NSW
(Jun 2024)

"Very responsive to calls & messages and prompt service"

- Badri NarayananView profile
Savvy Bricklaying
Savvy BricklayingThornbury VIC
(Jun 2024)

"We did get other quotes. Mario was super easy to deal with and did a great job at a fair price. Communication spot on and they turned up on time, work..."

- LeeannView profile

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