What is the best material to fill behind a retaining wall?

• <div><p>Sand and gravel are two suitable options for filling behind a retaining wall. If you’re building your own retaining wall, you’ll complete this part of the process—known as backfilling—after you finish laying the blocks. Make sure not to skip it—otherwise, you could wind up with drainage issues, which can cause your retaining wall to collapse.</p></div>

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Q: What materials are available for retaining wall construction?

• <div><p>Options include concrete, stone, brick, and wood, tailored for specific design needs.</p></div>

Q: How high does a retaining wall have to be?

• <div><p>Generally speaking, a retaining wall should be between 3 and 4 feet high, depending on variables such as the wall-building material, the purpose of the retaining wall, and more. If you want your retaining wall to be taller than 4 feet, check with your local building ordinance office for the maximum allotment. You may also need a special permit for retaining walls over 4 feet tall.</p></div>

Q: How long does a retaining wall last?

• <div><p>The lifespan of a retaining wall varies based on its material, installation quality, maintenance, and local climate, with an average range of 20 to 100 years. Retaining walls made from durable materials like concrete, stone, and brick generally last a minimum of 50 years. Concrete walls typically last between 50 and 100 years, while brick can last for over a century in ideal conditions. Timber retaining walls can last from 20 to 40 years, depending on the wood quality, and pressure-treated wood walls average around 30 years. It is important to note that a retaining wall can fail prematurely if it was poorly constructed, for example, with inefficient footings or without necessary rebar reinforcements.</p></div>

Q: Can I build a wall myself?

• <div><p>DIY is possible for small projects. Professional installation ensures structural integrity and durability for larger walls.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in San Rafael, NM

*The Angi rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in San Rafael, NM is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Retaining Wall Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in San Rafael, NM is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Retaining Wall Installation needs.

Last update on November 21, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Cody is helping us determine if we have a water leak in the foundation piping. Were getting moisture under our laminate flooring that is causing it to buckle. Cody was honest in recommending a technical diagnosis from another plumbing company before beginning work. He wanted to make sure a leak...
2CB Technical Services, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Brian Berson, Colton Lawrence and Halil Miljkovic were extremely well mannered, never forgot their plastic boots and cleaned up everything afterwards. Very helpful in replacing a bay window which took three windows, a bedroom window and a sliding glass door unit on bottom floor. They were...
Renewal by Andersen of Boise
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Reviewed in March 2024
They were so efficient and polite. They wrapped my furniture with care and loaded and unloaded with quick and quality service. They listened and did exactly what I needed them to do! I would recommend them to anyone and I would use them again.
All My Sons Moving & Storage
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Reviewed in May 2023
Warden Bros. Installed a couple of Mimi split systems in my home. They were very professional and efficient with a minimal wait time.
JRE Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in March 2022
I hired Mark for several different projects, i.e. trash hauling, landscape cleaning, and downed tree removal. Very responsible, on time and thorough. I recommend him highly. He'll do a good job for you.
Mark's Handyman Hauling
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Reviewed in June 2021
I appreciate that they had all the cleaning supplies and equipment to do the job
Germinator USA
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Reviewed in September 2020
The installer we very professional and courteous. Cleaned up after completing each window and door. Very helpful in showing us how to operate the windows and doors.
Dreamstyle Remodeling of New Mexico
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Reviewed in July 2017
It went well We love the water treatment system We have very hard water and this is awesome. We have 2 Water Heaters and had it installed on both. The service was great . He has came back to check it and he calls often
R & L Ent of GMX Magnetic Hardwater Treatment
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Reviewed in March 2017
We recently had a gas fireplace installed. We purchase it from Dreamstyle Remodeling in Albuquerque, NM. The installation was not an easy task but the team sent out managed the order nicely. Jared, Clint, and Paul did an excellent job setting up their work area, installing the fireplace, and...
Dreamstyle Remodeling
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Reviewed in May 2015
Bryan the owner, went over every thing he was doing, During the installation. Very professional. very Happy with this company. Would hire them again.
Universal Air, LLC
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Find Retaining wall installation pros in San Rafael

Daniel’s Tree Service Landscaping

4.6(

)

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"EXCELLENT!! The showed up on time each day. Very Very hard workers!! Did exactly what I asked them to do Did not leave a mess I will recommend this company to anyone!! They are the best!! I give the MORE than 5 ⭐️ !!!’"

Response time1 day

Response rate98%

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Jerome Zambrano can handle all of your home improvement needs at very reasonable rates! Give me a call for a free quote! I have been a licensed contractor for several years here in the Albuquerque metro area. No job is too big or too small! I guarantee all of my work and I am bonded and insured!\n\nWe specialize in Windows, Concrete and Stucco!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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lopez superior

New to Angi

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

we provide excellent customer satisfaction with out standing results let Lopez superior handle your next project or task

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Abq-masonry - Hlavn strnka Facebook

New to Angi

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

over 6 years of professionals in variety masnry and conrete projects. Guarentee our work planning can varity work as well upon request. spanish and english customers. https://www.facebook.com/ABQMASONRY/

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Reyes Concrete Services

New to Angi

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Warranties offered

We at Reyes Concrete Services live and breathe concrete. We love helping homeowners realize their dreams and vision for their property. We have also worked with companies of all sizes for the past 20 years. We are committed to our customers and excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Retaining Wall Installers questions, answered by experts

Options include concrete, stone, brick, and wood, tailored for specific design needs.

Generally speaking, a retaining wall should be between 3 and 4 feet high, depending on variables such as the wall-building material, the purpose of the retaining wall, and more. If you want your retaining wall to be taller than 4 feet, check with your local building ordinance office for the maximum allotment. You may also need a special permit for retaining walls over 4 feet tall.

Sand and gravel are two suitable options for filling behind a retaining wall. If you’re building your own retaining wall, you’ll complete this part of the process—known as backfilling—after you finish laying the blocks. Make sure not to skip it—otherwise, you could wind up with drainage issues, which can cause your retaining wall to collapse.

The lifespan of a retaining wall varies based on its material, installation quality, maintenance, and local climate, with an average range of 20 to 100 years. Retaining walls made from durable materials like concrete, stone, and brick generally last a minimum of 50 years. Concrete walls typically last between 50 and 100 years, while brick can last for over a century in ideal conditions. Timber retaining walls can last from 20 to 40 years, depending on the wood quality, and pressure-treated wood walls average around 30 years. It is important to note that a retaining wall can fail prematurely if it was poorly constructed, for example, with inefficient footings or without necessary rebar reinforcements.

DIY is possible for small projects. Professional installation ensures structural integrity and durability for larger walls.

The San Rafael, NM homeowners’ guide to retaining wall installation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost to Build? [2026 Data]
Kick erosion to the curb with an eye-catching retaining wall. Retaining wall costs vary based on the material, but this guide will help you budget.
Kyle Schurman
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Do Retaining Wall Repairs Cost? [2026 Data]
Retaining wall repair cost can vary widely based on the age and condition of the wall being restored. Learn why finding the right pro is important for getting the job done.
Angi
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Concrete Retaining Wall Cost? [2026 Data]
Find out how much a concrete retaining wall costs. Get average prices, cost factors, and expert tips to budget and save on your installation.
Christopher Murray
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Who to Hire to Build a Retaining Wall: A Complete Guide
While it’s possible to DIY build a retaining wall, several pros have advanced knowledge of hardscaping and building. Learn who to hire to build a retaining wall.
Ginny Bartolone
•
Apr 6, 2026Apr 6, 2026
20 Retaining Wall Ideas for Your Yard
There is no one-size-fits-all retaining wall for your yard. In fact, the options are endless. Check out 20 retaining wall ideas to upgrade your hardscape.
Dan Simms
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
6 Retaining Wall Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Professional
Replacing a retaining wall or installing a new one after grading? Here are some retaining wall questions you should be prepared to answer when hiring a pro.