Retaining Wall Calculator
Calculate materials, costs, and dimensions for your retaining wall project. Our calculator determines block quantities, base requirements, drainage needs, and total project costs for professional results.
Last updated: December 15, 2024
Need a custom calculator for your business? Get a Quote
Total length of the retaining wall
Height from base to top of wall
Choose your preferred block type and size
Project Requirements
Blocks Needed:
Materials Required:
Cost Breakdown:
Quick Example Result
For a typical retaining wall (20 feet long, 4 feet high, standard blocks):
Total cost: $1231
How This Calculator Works
Our retaining wall calculator uses industry-standard construction practices and material specifications to provide accurate estimates for your project. The calculation considers block dimensions, foundation requirements, drainage systems, and structural reinforcement needs.
The Calculation Process
This comprehensive approach ensures your retaining wall meets structural and drainage requirements.
Construction Standards
Proper retaining wall construction requires attention to foundation depth, drainage, and reinforcement. The foundation should be at least 1/10th the wall height with a minimum 6-inch depth. Proper drainage prevents hydrostatic pressure that can cause wall failure.
- Foundation depth: minimum 6 inches, 1/10th of wall height
- Base width: 6 inches wider than block on each side
- Drainage gravel: 12 inches behind wall minimum
- Geogrid reinforcement required for walls over 4 feet
Sources & References
- National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) - Segmental Retaining Wall Design ManualIndustry standards for retaining wall construction
- International Building Code (IBC) - Retaining Wall Requirements and StandardsBuilding code requirements for structural walls
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) - Geotechnical Engineering StandardsSoil mechanics and foundation design principles
Need help with other construction calculations? Check out our stone calculator and driveway paving calculator.
Get Custom Calculator for Your BusinessExample Calculation
Project Specifications:
- Wall Length: 20 feet
- Wall Height: 4 feet
- Block Type: Standard concrete blocks
- Foundation: 6" gravel base
Material Requirements:
- Blocks needed: 90 blocks
- Base gravel: 1.3 tons
- Drainage pipe: 20 linear feet
- Backfill gravel: 6.4 tons
- Labor hours: 13.5 hours
Result: Total project cost = $1231 ($624 materials + $608 labor)
This includes all materials, drainage, and professional installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Found This Calculator Helpful?
Share it with others planning retaining wall projects
Suggested hashtags: #RetainingWall #Construction #Landscaping #HomeImprovement #Calculator