Retaining Wall Materials: Block vs. Timber vs. Stone

Retaining walls are a structure designed to hold back soil, prevent erosion, and can create level surfaces to sloped land. It can also manage drainage and enhance landscaping. Retaining walls can be found in multiple types of land projects. Here, at Iron Wolf, we specialize in commercial and residential projects.  To help you establish which material is best suited for your particular project we will discuss the pros and cons of Block, Timber and Stone materials.

Block

Block Retaining Walls are made of precast concrete blocks. They are designed for strength and ease of installation with their interlocking system. This type is commonly used in residential and commercial projects.  At Iron Wolf, we install the majority of our walls using this material due to its versatility. It provides a highly durable product that is weather and rot resistant with a long lifespan. 

Let’s move on to installation. The individual blocks can weigh a pretty penny so if you are someone considering a DIY project this is something to take into consideration as it could prove to be stressful on the body for its intense labor. Different manufacturers provide different installation manuals for their individual blocks. I recommend reading these manuals prior to installation to ensure a proper install.  This type of material also requires a proper base for the blocks to sit on to ensure a level and durable structure. The cost for a block wall will vary by the type of block installed but it typically will run just slightly more expensive than a timber wall and less expensive than a stone wall.  

The appearance of these walls can vary. They can provide a more modern look. There are blocks with varying color patterns and there are blocks that can mimic the look of stack stone, wood and more. Because this option is made in a factory, there is a higher carbon footprint than a natural product, but it also means it can provide a more uniform appearance throughout an entire project. This option has minimal maintenance other than the occasional cleaning and possible checking for shifting. 

Timber

Timber Walls are constructed using pressure treated wood or railroad ties.  The option provides a natural and rustic appearance that can age, weather and discolor over time. This material is best for smaller scale walls, as the higher the wall is, the less structural integrity it presents. Timber walls are rated the least durable of the options as the material is prone to rot and insect damage. Most materials can also contain chemicals when treated. This option is the easiest to install especially if you are a DIYer attempting the project by yourself. Although it is the easier of the 3 to install it will still require the proper anchoring and drainage. This option is also the most cost effective to install, however, it requires the most maintenance with frequent repairs and sealing in order to maximize its lifespan. As a contractor in NC, we do install these types of walls but only for small projects where the pros of the timber walls outweigh the pros of the block and stone walls.  In any case, we like to remind people that with heavy rainfalls like our area provides, and the heavily wooded terrain, the walls will need more maintenance than a location that is a drier climate.

Stone

Stone Walls are built using natural stones such as limestone, granite, field stones, etc. These walls can be dry stacked, however, adding mortar provides extra stability.  This option provides a timeless appearance while looking high end.  With a high end look also comes a high-end budget.  This option comes in as the most expensive option of these materials. The higher price tag is due to the fact that it is highly labor intensive, and the natural stone is a more expensive material option. 

If you are not driven off by the cost of this material, there are some pros to consider that may sway your decision. This material is the most durable and naturally sustainable choice when installed properly. Quarrying also reduces the environmental footprint and because it is a natural material each stone will give its own unique and varying textures. Stone is also low maintenance but will show natural wearing and settling over time.

In all, Timber walls are best when wanting a small decorative but budget friendly wall. Block walls are our preference for installation since they are an all-around quality product for residential and commercial projects. Stone walls are best for high end landscaping that is looking for long term durability.

Please remember that walls can change the shape and the structural integrity of the land.  No matter the material you choose for your project, make sure you are installing the proper drainage and or backfilling with the walls so that it does not cause any further damage to the remainder of your property.  You will also want to check with your local ordinance (county, city or town) to ensure you are following the proper protocol for your construction project. If you are wanting to add a retaining wall to your property and would like a professional to come and quote you on your project, we would be happy to schedule you for a free site visit for the triangle area.

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