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: Does a 2-foot retaining wall need drainage?

• <div><p>Each design is different, so we can&rsquo;t say definitively if you&rsquo;ll need a dedicated drainage system in place for a two-foot retaining wall. However, you can likely skip the drainage, as this project is typically served for walls that are 4 feet tall or more. Even with a relatively low wall, consider drainage if you are building on top of clay or poor-draining soil types or if there are buried water sources nearby, like a well used for other <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/beginning-home-gardening-guide.htm">outdoor garden projects</a>.</p></div>

Q: How tall can a railroad tie wall be?

• <div><p>Generally, a railroad tie retaining wall consisting of a single line of ties should be between <b>3 and 4 feet tall</b>&mdash;and the height often tops out at around 6 feet. You can go taller, but you may need additional footings and reinforcements, including a second layer of railroad ties to support the added weight of the soil it&rsquo;s holding back.</p></div>

Q: Do you need a permit for a retaining wall?

• <div><p>Yes, to build a retaining wall, a permit is required. Similarly, any repairs or modifications to an existing retaining wall require permits. If the planned wall measures higher than 4 feet, most municipalities require designs and permits come through a licensed engineer. In some locations, if the wall is shorter than 4 feet, a permit may not be required. For the requirements in your area, contact your local government.</p></div>

Q: How much does wall installation cost?

• <div><p>Costs range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on size, material, and design complexity.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Eagle Butte, SD

*The Angi rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in Eagle Butte, SD 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 Eagle Butte, SD 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 December 12, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
Tyler did an amazing job on our retaining wall and landscaping
DSLR
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Reviewed in November 2023
Excellent job on a custom cabinet installation. Great quality product and craftsmanship!
Kitchen Design Guys TN
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Reviewed in June 2023
We could not be more pleased! Ironclad install new siding, window, and a steel roof. A complete transformation. It’s like a new home. Thank you so much!
Ironclad Construction
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Reviewed in January 2023
I had an amazing experience from start to finish with my new custom home build with full landscaping. The house is exactly what was planned for and is beyond our expectations. For the landscape I had a paver patio, gazebo, deck, hot tub, fire pit, stone table, outdoor kitchen, sod with...
SD Alternative Services Corp
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Reviewed in January 2022
I hired Nate to install new windows, siding, and doors as wells as build two decks with one pergola and one covered roof. His work was good when he showed up with the exception of the trim and siding around the bay window. This work was not good at all. The trim didn't follow the window and...
RiverBend Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2021
Honestly, I thought everything went great with Northland Fence. From the very beginning, they seemed on top of everything and were incredibly responsive. Great overall customer service, installation, and product. I dealt with Kaya initially, who answered some of my questions regarding the...
Northland Fence Minnesota
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Reviewed in December 2019
They came out in a timely manner to visit with us and show us the different guards. Once they were ordered, the gutter guards were put on quickly & the installers were very efficient. We were very pleased with their work.
Rykhus-Nelson Siding, Windows and Seamless Gutters, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2018
REL installed our block and paver patio and outside fireplace. They did it in one week. I've seen these projects take months. Very happy with their work and would certainly recommend them. -Cindy Olson.
REL Construction
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Reviewed in June 2016
The company was very professional. We knew exactly what we were getting and were left with no questions after ordering and installment. The installment crew was wonderful and very great with my children running around!
Your Home Improvement Company
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