Looking to spice up your yard? Look no further than a retaining wall. Retaining walls do more than make your yard more aesthetically pleasing—they also help to prevent damaging soil erosion.

There are many factors that go into making a great retaining wall. One of the most important factors, however, is the retaining wall material. There are all sorts of great materials you can use when building your project. But you need to find the right material to fit your style and budget.

Check out our list of the different retaining wall material types from which you have to choose.

retaining wall made from natural stone landscaping materials

Natural Stone Retaining Wall Materials

Do you want a sturdy wall with a natural look? If that’s the case, you should use natural stone in your retaining wall. Some reasons natural stone is popular include:

  • Natural stone can fit almost any landscape style. It creates an organic look that pairs well with a garden or yard.
  • It is also extremely durable. It’s heavier and able to endure outdoor elements. This durability also helps to keep soil from getting through the retaining wall.
  • It offers variety. You can purchase granite, limestone, or faux stone for your retaining wall.
  • You can choose your stone based on the style and color that best fits your yard. Techo-Bloc stones, for example, come in a number of styles and shades.

It’s important to remember that natural stone is a heavier retaining wall material. So, you should only use it for shorter walls that are under four feet tall.

Concrete

You don’t have to stick to a natural-looking retaining wall. Concrete walls are a great alternative for people who want to add a modern look to their yard. When using concrete, remember:

  • Concrete walls create a sleek and contemporary aesthetic. This material can add a touch of sophistication to a garden or yard.
  • Concrete walls are not only used for their appearance. They also have practical uses.
  • Concrete blocks are strong and easy to assemble. As a result, concrete is a good option for people building tall walls, curved walls, and walls on slopes.

Wood

The average retaining wall costs homeowners over $5,000 to build. But that doesn’t mean you can’t build a great retaining wall on a budget.

You can help save money on your project by using wood in your retaining wall. Wood is much cheaper than other materials like natural stone. Wood is also popular because it’s a perfect compliment to a wooden garden or home.

There are plenty of reasons to choose a brick retaining wall over wood however, including:

  • Wood is less sturdy and more vulnerable to the elements than other material.
  • Wooden retaining walls erode over time, especially when they are exposed to moisture for extended periods of time.
  • Wood can invite infestation issues.

You can, however, purchase Douglas fir wood if you’re worried about moisture. This wood is less vulnerable to water and erosion.

Bricks

The gold standard for retaining walls, brick offers many benefits. Bricks make walls that are durable, sturdy, and can last decades. Plus, their aesthetic beauty is only limited by the imagination and skill of the designer!

If you’re planning on building a retaining wall, the first material you should consider is brick. With so many styles and design options, it offers limitless opportunities.

Choosing Your Retaining Wall Material

Are you interested in building a retaining wall? We can help!

We are a premier product supplier for commercial and residential projects. Contact us today to get started on your landscaping project today!