How many retaining wall blocks do I need?
Includes one buried course below grade, cap blocks, and gravel backfill behind the wall.
Wall blocks
221 blocks
Estimated material cost
Wall blocks
221 x $$4.00 per block
$884
Cap blocks
30 x $$5.00 per cap
$150
Gravel backfill
3.6 x $$45.00 per ton
$162
Typical store prices before tax and delivery. Change any price to match your store.
How to measure
Measure the wall length and how tall it will stand above the ground. Pick your block's face size.
Tips from the field
- Walls over about 3 to 4 feet usually need engineering and a permit.
- Put a perforated drain pipe behind the bottom row so water can't build up.
What you'll need
Common questions
How deep do retaining wall blocks go?
Bury the first row, about one block height, below grade on a compacted gravel base.
Do retaining walls need drainage?
Yes. Use gravel backfill behind the wall and a perforated drain pipe behind the bottom row.
How tall can I build a retaining wall myself?
Most areas allow about 3 to 4 feet without engineering. Taller walls usually need a permit.
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