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: What is the most cost-effective retaining wall to build?

• <div><p>While vinyl is the least costly material for building a retaining wall, the most cost-effective method is to use wood or concrete blocks for a DIY retaining wall under 2 feet tall. Wood is inexpensive but lasts <b>20 years or more </b>with care. Concrete can cost a little more but is stronger and will last longer with less maintenance.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to build a retaining wall?

• <div><p>Most retaining wall installations can be finished in one to three weeks, but the timeline varies based on factors like wall size and material. The local climate and major weather events, such as storms or flooding, can also extend the project's timeline, as can any holds ups in the permitting process.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you don't backfill a retaining wall?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t backfill a retaining wall&mdash;either at all or adequately enough&mdash;the wall won&rsquo;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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/hardscape-features-bring-value-landscape.htm">hardscaping is adding value to your home</a>.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Aurora, UT

*The Angi rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in Aurora, UT 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 Aurora, UT 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 March 04, 2025

Reviewed in March 2025
Witty tus excavation did an exceptional job removing approximately 1/2 mile of old cement ditch. They hauled off all of the old cement and then leveled and grated the area. I am very pleased with her professional worked and would definitely hire them again.
Witty Tuss Excavation & Garden, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Vance was very efficient remodeling an old shower that needed extensive work. He handled the unexpected problems with ease, knowing just what to do to fix the problem. He was dependable, easy to work with and his work is top notch! He made an old unattractive bathroom brand new!
Leeway Handyman LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
Very knowledgeable about what I needed done and got the job done fast will be back for follow up.
Sentinel Pest Services
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Reviewed in March 2023
Mike and his team were so professional. I have used this company last summer, the ants were out of control. He sprayed one time, I was very impressed that the ants are gone, They are always available, always answer their phones, or get back with me quickly. I highly recommend this company....
Pest Wise
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Reviewed in February 2023
This company has been amazing to work with. Matt and Seth were so attentive to all of my needs and were willing to do absolutely everything I asked them to. This was not, by any means, an easy remodel, and I am beyond thrilled about how it turned out. They certainly went above and beyond in...
Peaking Engineering and Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
They were great and amazing. I deal with a lot of contractors and he is by far the best. He gave me a good bid and came in under budget when the job was complete.
Brazell Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
They were more than willing to do all I asked and to recommend more that needed to be done, without charging more.
Fix it right handyman services
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Reviewed in May 2022
We had some good workers that knew their business and did an awesome job. Our new shower looks fantastic.
West Shore Home Salt Lake City
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Reviewed in September 2021
Lance gave bid yesterday and finished the job just 30 minutes ago. Was very willing to do a couple of extra items and was always cheerful. Highly recommend this company
Exterior Guys, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2013
Installed central air, moved hot water heater to basement,put ceiling vent fan in bathrooms, had to install attic duct fans, plumbed me for a gas stove and gas dryer. It's an old house and wasn't easy. They had to crawl under my house to do it. My hat is off to Scott for that. They came a week...
Sevier Heating & Air Conditioning
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Find Retaining wall installation pros in Aurora

Handyman Can Utah

4.3(

)

Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Aurora, UT and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was fast, within budget, and did a great job installing my gutter."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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33 Construction LLC

New to Angi

Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Aurora, UT and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Landscaping and handyman services, sprinkler, decorative rock, zeroscape all types of handyman services as well

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Kortney Winn masonry and concrete

New to Angi

Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Aurora, UT and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

At company , our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team. Call today for a quote.

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Black Bar Construction, LLC

2.0(

)

Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Aurora, UT and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Great attention to detail, they take their time to get it right."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Blackrock Pro Concrete, LLC

New to Angi

Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Aurora, UT and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Welcome to Blackrock Pro Concrete LLC. We have over 10 years of experience in the concrete industry. We take pride in the work we do and we treat every project as if it was our own. Give us a call today to discuss your concrete needs, and for your free estimate!

Response time2 days

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Retaining Wall Installers questions, answered by experts

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

While vinyl is the least costly material for building a retaining wall, the most cost-effective method is to use wood or concrete blocks for a DIY retaining wall under 2 feet tall. Wood is inexpensive but lasts 20 years or more with care. Concrete can cost a little more but is stronger and will last longer with less maintenance.

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.

Most retaining wall installations can be finished in one to three weeks, but the timeline varies based on factors like wall size and material. The local climate and major weather events, such as storms or flooding, can also extend the project's timeline, as can any holds ups in the permitting process.

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.

The Aurora, UT 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

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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
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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.
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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.