Get matched with top retaining wall installation pros in Penrose, UT

A retaining wall can only function as a fence if it’s high enough on all sides to prevent someone from accidentally falling into the pool. However, most retaining walls retain dirt, which means their purpose is not related to safety. There would need to be nothing on the other side of the wall for it to be considered a fence, but in that case, it wouldn’t retain anything and would cease to be a retaining wall.  

The longevity of flood walls depends on how they were constructed, but most wood, gravel, and cement flood walls last 10 years. While aluminum flood walls may cost far more initially, they can be a good investment as they can last decades and will not be damaged by exposure to the elements.

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.

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.