Retaining Wall Repair Costs
Are You Having Issues With Your Retaining Wall? Here's What You Need To Consider
Materials and Labor
When considering the potential cost of repairing a retaining wall, keep in mind a lot of factors can affect the cost. Materials and labor are the two obvious factors, but even those can vary widely from job to job – it’s why a Google search for retaining wall repair costs can yield such a frustrating range of answers.
Your best bet is to get an estimate from a professional (Hint: We can help! So contact us). Here are some of the factors that will determine your cost.
Excavation and Ground Preparation
Before the wall can be repaired, the area will need to be prepared properly, which may require some basic excavation. If the area is sloped or needs a grade added, it will cost more than a level area. Excavation includes removing soil, sod and brush, then grading the area.
Once the unwanted soil is removed, the area must be prepared. Most types of soil must be compacted before the wall can be laid. If the area lacks proper drainage, it will need be built into the grading.
The Wall
The wall itself will add to the cost. If the repair requires a new design, then you will pay designing costs. Then, the materials to repair the wall will add to the cost. Many factors will increase or decrease this cost. The height and length of the wall, the amount of damage, the materials used in the wall and any additional features, such as drains, that the design demands.
Labor and Engineering Costs
Finally, you will pay labor and engineering costs for a retaining wall repair. Labor costs include the cost of the workers who build the wall as well as the necessary permits and inspection fees. Labor is where the costs can vary from one contractor to the next. Avoid the temptation to go with the lowest offer, because you may end up working with contractors who are cutting corners.
If a retaining wall will affect the stability of a building lot, it may need the services of an engineer to ensure that it is properly built to stand up for the long term. Plan about 17 percent of your project’s cost to be given to the engineer, if it is required.
What’s the Bottom Line?
So, what’s the bottom line about the cost to repair a retaining wall? A simple, small wall can cost as little a $800 to $1,000, while an involved project with backfill, labor and excavation can cost upwards of $20,000. The only way to know for sure how much your repair will cost is to get a quote from a qualified contractor.
Contact Us Today!
Foundation Repair Services has been fixing retaining walls since 2004, and we are ready to help you. Call us today about your retaining wall project.