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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.

Small retaining walls still require a foundation of some kind, typically a concrete footing. This helps to ensure the wall is structurally sound and prevents the ground from shifting over time, especially during those winter freeze/thaw cycles. The footing helps spread the weight of the wall and the load it carries over a larger area of the ground, thus assisting with stability. This is true of small retaining walls, larger rock garden walls, and the like. 

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.

If you don’t backfill a retaining wall—either at all or adequately enough—the wall won’t drain well, and water will be able to pass through it. Poor drainage will lead to a warped wall or a buildup of hydrostatic pressure, which can eventually collapse your retaining wall. If you have particularly sloped land, consult a structural engineer to ensure your hardscaping is adding value to your home.