Retaining walls are functional hardscapes that can serve different purposes, whether holding back soil or turning sloped land into flat, usable space. However, how tall does it need to be? While it depends, retaining walls are usually built between 3-4 feet tall, as that is typically enough to serve their intended purpose. On the other hand, anything over 4 feet typically requires an engineer as it is required in Tennessee to ensure stability. Whether you need a simple retaining wall or an engineered one, make sure you work with a company that can build one at any height!

Retaining walls are usually built between 3 to 4 feet tall.

Retaining walls are usually built between 3 to 4 feet tall, which is the average height. At this height, the retaining wall is strong and sturdy enough to hold back soil effectively and turn sloped areas into a flat space without needing extensive structural support. These types of retaining walls are also great at adding a nice, visual element to your outdoor space without extra reinforcements. Retaining walls at this height don't require complicated work and can be built faster!

Anything over 4 feet tall typically requires an engineer to ensure the retaining wall has proper foundational support.

If your property needs a retaining wall that is taller than 4 feet, the installation becomes more complicated. Higher retaining walls require an engineer to build them to ensure the wall can safely push back soil and anything that will be installed on top of it. The wall also needs a stronger and deeper foundational support to avoid issues like leaning and collapsing.

Different areas of Tennessee have different requirements for retaining walls, but generally, if it's higher than 4 to 5 feet, you need a professional to build it. An engineer will ensure the retaining wall is built with proper foundational support, quality materials, and drainage to prevent water from accumulating behind it and causing it to fail. They will also ensure it's structurally sound and can withstand the pressure of the soil it's holding back.

Choose the right company for your retaining wall installation project.

Crew constructing a retaining wall in Memphis, TN.

Whether you need a retaining wall that's only 4 feet tall or higher, working with the right team makes all the difference. When looking for a company to handle your retaining wall installation project, choose one that can build it at any height. Professionals can determine the ideal height of your retaining wall, depending on the purpose it will serve, the slope on your property, and other factors. If you need an engineered wall, they will make sure it is designed properly and has enough structural support to withstand the load that it will bear. Additionally, the right company will follow proper installation techniques to ensure it's built structurally sound while still looking great.

Professionals will ensure your retaining wall is designed and built according to your local building code.

Call us today to sign up for our retaining wall installation service!

If you want to add a retaining wall to your property, look no further than our team at Picture Perfect Landscapes. We offer a retaining wall installation service that is built around your needs. This means our professionals will make your retaining wall happen, whether you're looking for a simple 3-foot wall or an engineered structure.

Our team has been building retaining walls since 2002, so you can rest assured we have the experience and expertise to ensure your wall is not only structurally sound but also a great decorative element to your outdoor space. This service is available to residential and commercial properties, as well as HOAs, in Memphis, Midtown Memphis, East Memphis, TN, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (901) 246-7656 to sign up!