Retaining Wall: calculators, shopping list & budget
A retaining wall fails from water, not weight. Budget for the base, drainage aggregate and perforated pipe, not just the blocks.
Count the blocks, then calculate base and backfill and keep it all in one template.
Retaining Wall budget & shopping list template
- • Printable PDF checklist with quantities, estimated prices and an "Actual" column
- • Editable Excel or Google Sheets budget that calculates totals automatically, including contingency and remaining funds
- • Step-by-step plan and notes page
Which calculators do I need for this project?
Step 1
Retaining Wall Calculator
Estimate blocks, capstones and base gravel for a retaining wall.
Step 2
Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel by area and depth in tons or cubic yards.
Step 3
French Drain Calculator
Estimate gravel and pipe for a French drain.
Step 4
Concrete Block Calculator
Estimate concrete blocks (CMU) and mortar for any wall.
How much does it cost?
40 ft long, 3 ft tall segmental block wall with drain pipe. Estimated total: $2,167, or $2,384 with a 10% contingency.
| Item | Qty | Est. cost |
|---|---|---|
| Retaining wall blocks | 290 each | $1,218 |
| Cap blocks | 34 each | $221 |
| Base gravel (crusher run) | 3 tons | $126 |
| Drainage stone 3/4 in | 5 tons | $240 |
| Perforated drain pipe, 50 ft | 1 roll | $45 |
| Landscape fabric, 4x100 ft | 1 roll | $40 |
| Masonry adhesive | 4 tubes | $32 |
| Plate compactor rental | 1 day | $95 |
| Bulk delivery | 2 each | $150 |
Want this as a printable checklist and a self-totaling spreadsheet? Get the template.
What are the steps?
- Check height limits and permit rules.
- Dig a trench 2 ft wide and 6 in plus one block deep.
- Compact 6 in of base gravel; level the first course.
- Stack courses with setback, backfilling with stone.
- Lay drain pipe behind the bottom course.
- Glue caps and backfill with topsoil.
Material guides for this project
How much does a 40 ft retaining wall cost DIY?
A 3 ft tall segmental block wall usually costs $2,000 to $2,800 in materials and rentals.
How deep should the base be?
Six inches of compacted gravel, with the first course buried about 10% of the wall height.
When does a retaining wall need an engineer?
Most codes require engineering above 4 ft or when the wall holds a driveway or slope.
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