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Retaining Walls
Block Retaining Walls
Rock Retaining Walls
Gabion Retaining Walls
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |
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 |
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.
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.
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.
"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 profileHere are some frequently asked questions and tips on how to find the right retaining wall contractor for your job.
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