What Are The Main Types Of Retaining Walls?
- jmolinaro164
- Sep 22, 2025
- 5 min read
The Main Types of Retaining Walls: Pros, Cons, and Why Block Retaining Walls Are the Best Choice
When you’re planning a landscaping or outdoor living project, few features are as important as a retaining wall. Retaining walls serve a vital function: they hold back soil, prevent erosion, and allow you to create level, usable spaces in sloped yards. But beyond utility, retaining walls also play a major role in the look and feel of your outdoor space.
Homeowners often ask us: What type of retaining wall is best for my yard? The truth is, there are several types of retaining walls, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we’ll break down the most common types, highlight their pros and cons, and explain why block retaining walls are often the smartest investment for homeowners in Ohio and beyond.
Why Retaining Walls Matter
Before we dive into the types, it’s important to understand why retaining walls are so critical:
Preventing Soil Erosion: Slopes and rain can cause soil to wash away. Retaining walls stop erosion and protect your property.
Creating Level Spaces: Want a patio, driveway, pool, or outdoor kitchen on sloped land? A retaining wall creates the flat area you need.
Boosting Aesthetics: Retaining walls add structure, depth, and visual interest to landscapes.
Increasing Home Value: Properly built retaining walls are not only functional but also increase curb appeal and resale value.
The 5 Main Types of Retaining Walls
1. Gravity Retaining Walls
How they work: Gravity walls depend on sheer mass to resist the pressure of the soil behind them. They’re typically built with natural stone, large concrete blocks, or even brick.
Pros:
Simple design, no complex engineering required.
Natural stone provides a rustic, timeless look.
Durable if properly built.
Cons:
Requires large amounts of heavy material = higher cost.
Limited in height (typically under 4 feet without reinforcement).
Natural stone requires skilled masons, which adds labor cost.
Best use: Small garden walls, decorative features, or low retaining needs.
2. Cantilever Retaining Walls
How they work: These walls use reinforced concrete and a “lever” system. A slab or footing extends back into the soil, with the wall rising vertically. The weight of the soil above the footing helps stabilize the wall.
Pros:
Strong enough to handle taller walls.
Long lifespan when properly engineered.
Cons:
Requires precise engineering and a concrete pour.
More expensive to install.
Plain concrete isn’t visually appealing unless it’s finished or faced with veneer.
Best use: Larger projects needing taller walls with structural reinforcement.
3. Anchored Retaining Walls
How they work: Anchors or tiebacks (steel rods, cables, or geogrid) are used to secure the wall into the soil behind it. This adds strength and stability for very tall walls.
Pros:
Handles very tall or steep loads.
Can be used when space is limited in front of the wall.
Cons:
Complex engineering and installation.
Higher costs due to specialized anchors.
Excavation may be extensive.
Best use: Tall retaining walls in commercial projects or challenging residential landscapes.
4. Sheet Pile Retaining Walls
How they work: Thin sheets of steel, vinyl, or wood are driven vertically into the ground to hold back soil.
Pros:
Useful in tight spaces where other wall types won’t fit.
Works well in soft or sandy soils.
Cons:
Limited height capability.
Steel can rust, wood can rot.
Rarely considered attractive for residential applications.
Best use: Temporary solutions, construction sites, or waterfront applications.
5. Segmental Block Retaining Walls (Our Recommendation)
How they work: Segmental retaining walls are built with interlocking concrete blocks such as Unilock or Reading Rock. They sit on a compacted stone base and use drainage systems and geogrid reinforcement for taller walls.
Pros:
Strength & Durability: Engineered block systems last for decades when installed correctly.
Design Flexibility: Can be curved, tiered, or straight; available in many colors and textures.
Cost-Effective: Less labor than natural stone, more efficient than poured concrete.
Aesthetics: Modern textures mimic natural stone while maintaining a clean, consistent look.
Low Maintenance: Proper installation prevents shifting or settling.
Scalable: Works for both small garden walls and tall structural solutions.
Cons:
DIY installation can lead to failure if base prep and drainage aren’t correct.
Slightly less “natural” than hand-laid stone (though modern finishes are very realistic).
Best use: Almost any residential or commercial retaining wall application.
Block vs. Natural Stone: Which Is Better?
Many homeowners are drawn to natural stone for its beauty, but there are trade-offs. Natural stone requires specialized labor, is difficult to source consistently, and is often far more expensive. Block retaining walls, on the other hand, offer a balance of strength, cost, and appearance.
Why block walls win:
Engineered for structural performance.
Easier to install consistently.
Cost-effective compared to stone.
Wide aesthetic options available.
Common Questions About Retaining Walls
Q: How long do block retaining walls last?With proper installation and drainage, block retaining walls can last 50+ years.
Q: Do all retaining walls need drainage?Yes. Without proper drainage, water pressure can build up and cause failure. Every wall we build includes drainage systems and geotextile fabric.
Q: Can block walls handle vehicle loads (like for driveways)?Yes. When designed and built correctly, block walls can easily handle vehicle and heavy equipment loads.
Q: Are block retaining walls cheaper than poured concrete?Yes, especially when factoring in labor. Block walls often provide better aesthetics at a lower cost than poured concrete.
Q: What’s the typical cost of a block retaining wall?Costs vary by height, length, and site conditions. Small walls may start at a few thousand dollars, while large structural walls can run tens of thousands.
Why Choose Molinaro Property Service
At Molinaro Property Service, we specialize in designing and installing block retaining walls using trusted systems like Unilock and Reading Rock. Our crews follow proven installation methods with proper drainage, base preparation, and geogrid reinforcement. The result? Walls that look incredible, perform for decades, and add value to your property.
Whether you’re looking to level a yard, create a driveway edge, or design a complete outdoor living space with patios, pools, and kitchens, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Final Thoughts
Retaining walls are more than just functional barriers—they’re the backbone of a beautiful, long-lasting outdoor living space. While there are many types of retaining walls, block retaining walls offer the best balance of strength, cost, flexibility, and aesthetics.
If you’re considering adding a retaining wall to your property, don’t leave it to chance. Work with a team that understands the engineering, materials, and craftsmanship needed to build walls that last.
📅 Ready to get started? Contact Molinaro Property Service today for a consultation and 3D design rendering of your project.
Comments