7 Different Types of Retaining Walls

If you’re looking to build on hilly land, add landscaping to a slope, or prevent soil erosion, a retaining wall might be just what you need. Retaining walls are structures built into sloped surfaces to stabilize the ground, resist pressure that could cause soil shifting or erosion, and make it possible to build on uneven terrain. 

Retaining walls can be built in a variety of styles and from a wide range of materials, and different types of retaining walls are used for different purposes. Learn about seven common types of retaining walls and which is best for your yard.

1. Gravity 

Gravity retaining walls use their own weight and the force of gravity to resist pressure. Unlike other types of retaining walls, they don’t require additional support. Gravity walls can be constructed of various materials and are known for their stability and strength.

Used For:

• Walls up to 10 feet high

• Creating tiered gardens

• Preventing erosion on waterfront properties 

Common Materials:

• Concrete blocks

• Precast concrete

• Stone

2. Sheet Pile

Sheet pile retaining walls use interlocking sheets of material driven into the ground to create a continuous barrier against pressure. Modern sheet pile walls typically use steel to prevent rot and decay, but they can also be constructed from wood. This is one of the most cost-efficient types of retaining wall and is faster to construct than other types. 

Used For:

• Temporary retention during excavation

• Areas with too little space for thicker walls

• Soft, loose, or high-moisture soil

Common Materials:

• Steel

• Wood

3. Cantilever

Cantilever retaining walls have a vertical structure and a horizontal base, forming an L-shaped structure. They are the most common type of retaining wall, use less material than gravity walls, and are popular due to their suitability for taller walls and ability to withstand significant amounts of pressure.

Used For:

• Walls 10 to 25 feet high

• Ground with significant elevation changes

Common Materials:

• Reinforced concrete

• Reinforced masonry

4. Anchored 

Anchored retaining walls are relatively thin walls reinforced with anchors made of high-strength steel bars or cables driven deep into the ground for additional support. The tension from the anchors helps counteract pressure exerted against the wail. These retaining walls cost less than thicker walls and are ideal in tight spaces like urban yards. 

Used For:

• Areas with limited space

• Walls up to 18 feet high

• Areas prone to landslides

Common Materials:

• Stone

• Concrete

• Steel anchors

5. Gabion 

Gabion retaining walls are constructed from wire mesh baskets or boxes filled with stone or rocks stacked and linked to give the wall its form. This type of retaining wall has been used since ancient Egypt and is popular due to its permeability, ease of construction, and affordability. 

Used For:

• Tiered gardens

• Seating on a slope

•  Waterfront property

Common Materials:

• Galvanized wire mesh baskets

• Rocks 

• Stone

• Bricks

6. Crib

Crib retaining walls use interlocking, pre-constructed wood or concrete boxes filled with materials like stone or soil. These walls are permeable and allow for efficient drainage, making them ideal for areas where water pressure is a concern. Unlike other retaining walls that are perfectly vertical, crib walls are often built at a slope.  

Used For:

• Driveway retention

• Terraced gardens

• Areas with steep slopes

Common Materials:

• Treated timber

• Concrete

7. Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) 

Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls use layers of backfill reinforced with metal or plastic strips or mesh for stability, and materials like stone, wire mesh, or concrete to make up the wall face. These walls are versatile and cost effective but may require more frequent maintenance than other retaining walls.

Used For:

• Tall or long walls

• Driveway support

• High-traffic areas

Common Materials:

• Backfill: Dirt, sand, gravel

• Reinforcement: Steel, geosynthetic plastic

• Facing: Concrete, stone, wire mesh

Choosing the Right Retaining Wall for You

The right retaining wall for your yard will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The angle of the slope

• The desired wall height

• The wall’s function

• Available space

• Soil conditions

A local hardscape contractor can help you decide on the right style and material for your retaining wall. When hiring a hardscape contractor, find out how much experience they have with your desired wall style, see whether they’ll pull any necessary permits and follow local building codes, and ask for pictures or reviews of their previous work.