Retaining walls are a great way to bring life to your outdoor space and make it functional while also being aesthetically pleasing. Having an attractive retaining wall can transform a yard and create an inviting atmosphere. But with the variety of options out there, what are the most affordable yet stylish ways to go about it?

That’s why today we will be discussing cheap retaining wall ideas. Whether you are looking for a block retaining wall, boulder wall, concrete retaining wall, timber retaining wall, or a stacked stone natural stone retaining wall, all of these retaining wall design ideas can be made affordably and easily with some DIY know-how.

The types of materials used to construct a retaining wall are as varied as the types of designs available. One of the most popular cheap options is a brick retaining wall. This is because bricks are relatively inexpensive compared to other materials and can be easily replaced when needed. Another more modern option is for a wall constructed of blocks.

These blocks come in all kinds of sizes, shapes, and colors, making them an incredibly versatile choice for any property owner. For those who prefer something more organic looking, then a stacked stone natural stone retaining wall might be what they’re looking for. You can also incorporate timber into your wall design to add a rustic feel or use it as a structural reinforcement material.

There are many cheap retaining wall ideas out there; all you need is a little creativity and imagination to find the right one for you! Read on to learn more about cheap retaining wall ideas and how you can use them to transform your outdoor space into something beautiful and functional!

Best 15 Cheap Retaining Wall Ideas That Will Save You Money On Your Landscape Project

1. Landscaping timbers

There are a variety of ways to build a retaining wall on a budget, and using landscaping timbers is one of the most popular options.

These timbers are typically made from recycled plastic or wood, which makes them an environmentally-friendly choice. They’re also relatively easy to install, which can save you money on labor costs.

2. Railroad ties

Retaining walls can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. There are a number of cheap retaining wall ideas that will save you money. One of the most popular is using railroad ties.

Railroad ties are inexpensive and easy to find. They’re also easy to work with, making them a great option for do-it-yourselfers. Another advantage of railroad ties is that they’re durable and last for many years.

3. Gabion wall

A Gabion wall is a popular and inexpensive solution for creating a strong and attractive retaining wall. The walls are made from galvanized or plastic coated steel mesh filled with rocks or concrete blocks. The mesh is then connected to posts or other structures to create the actual wall.

Gabion walls have been used since ancient times to construct retaining walls, erosion control barriers, and even to create an aesthetically pleasing feature in a garden or outdoor space.

Gabion walls are incredibly strong and durable, offering excellent protection against soil erosion and the potential for flooding. They can also be constructed to an exact height and width allowing homeowners to create a tailor-made retaining wall solution.

These walls may have additional benefits such as improving the look of a garden or simply providing a secure division between two different areas of land. Gabion walls are easy to maintain and can be a great way to add value to a residential property without breaking the bank.

4. Interlocking concrete blocks

One way to build an inexpensive cheap retaining wall is to use interlocking concrete blocks. You can find these blocks at most hardware stores and they are relatively easy to work with.

This type of retaining wall is not as strong as some of the other options on this list, but it will still do the job and save you money.

5. Precast concrete blocks

Precast concrete blocks are an affordable and easy-to-install option for a do-it-yourselfer. You can find these blocks at your local home improvement store.

They are typically made of concrete that has been cast into a mold and then cured.

Precast concrete blocks are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. To install, simply stack the blocks on top of each other and mortar them in place.

6. Glass bottles

One cheap retaining wall idea that can save you money is to use glass bottles. This is a great way to recycle and reuse materials, and it can add an interesting and unique look to your garden.

You can use different colors and sizes of bottles to create a one-of-a-kind design. Another advantage of using glass bottles is that they will allow light to pass through, which can help to brighten up your garden.

7. Stone veneer

One of the most popular retaining wall ideas is to use stone veneer. A Stone veneer is a thin layer of natural stone that is applied to a wall.

It is a popular choice because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. It is also available in a variety of colors and textures.

8. Cement bags

One of the most inexpensive retaining wall ideas is to use cement bags. You can find these at any local hardware store and they are easy to use.

Simply stack the bags on top of each other and fill them with dirt or gravel. This is a great option for small retaining walls that don’t need a lot of support.

9. Use recycled materials

This is a great idea for those who want to save money and be eco-friendly. By using recycled materials, you can create a cheap retaining wall that will not only be good for the environment but will also save you money.

You can use recycled bricks, stones, or even wood to create your retaining wall. This is a great way to reuse materials that would otherwise be thrown away, and it will save you money in the process.

10. Build a simple wood retaining wall

Building a retaining wall is a great way to add value to your home while also providing functionality.

A retaining wall can be used to create level areas in your yard, protect against erosion, and even create extra seating.

The cost of building a retaining wall will vary depending on the materials you use and the size of the wall, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000.

The best way to build a cheap retaining wall is to use wood, which is readily available and easy to work with.

11. Install a pre-cast concrete wall

A pre-cast concrete wall is a great way to create a cheap retaining wall. By using pre-cast concrete, you can create a durable and long-lasting wall that will not only look great but will also save you money in the long run.

This type of wall is perfect for those who want to create a barrier between their property and the surrounding environment, or for those who simply want to add some extra protection to their home.

12. Repurpose Pallets

Repurposing pallets can be an economical and practical way to create a retaining wall for your garden or yard. Pallets are relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain making them ideal materials for DIY landscapers.

To create a pallet wall, use treated lumber to attach the pallets together in a staggered formation. Secure each pallet to its nearest neighbor using galvanized screws and washers, and add drainage fabric behind the wall to help keep soil and water from saturating the area behind it.

For an even more cost-effective solution, consider using repurposed pallets to create a vertical garden. Line up the pallets horizontally, fill the spaces with topsoil, and use soil anchors to secure them in place.

Plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs in the soil-filled spaces, then watch your vertical garden come to life! This is a great solution for those who are short on space but still want to enjoy a beautiful outdoor area.

13. Cover the wall with vines or other plants

One way to make a cheap retaining wall more visually appealing is to cover it with vines or other plants.

This can help the wall blend in with its surroundings, and can also make it look more like a natural feature than a man-made one.

If you choose vines, make sure they are appropriate for the climate and soil conditions where the wall is located.

Other plants that can be used to cover a retaining wall include shrubs, ground cover, and creepers.

There are many benefits to covering a wall with vines or other plants. Vines can add beauty and interest to a blank wall, and they can also help to create a more natural-looking environment.

Vines can also help to keep the wall cooler in hot weather, and they can help to reduce noise levels.

14. Build a living wall with soil and plants

One of the most inexpensive and attractive retaining wall ideas is to build a living wall with soil and plants.

This type of wall is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves a functional purpose in terms of holding back soil.

To build a living wall, simply create a series of wooden frames and fill them with soil.

Plant your chosen vegetation in the soil and water regularly. The plants will help to hold the soil in place and prevent erosion.

15. Use concrete bags filled with sand or gravel

A cheap retaining wall idea is to use concrete bags filled with sand or gravel. This is a relatively easy project that can be completed on a weekend.

The bags can be filled with either sand or gravel, depending on what is available.

Once the bags are filled, they are placed in the desired location and stacked on top of each other. The bags can be held in place with stakes or bricks.

16. Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is an inexpensive way to create a retaining wall. It requires minimal materials and is great for DIY projects as the process is relatively simple. It is most suited for short large walls which will be supporting light loads.

For example, you can use poured concrete to build a small wall around your garden bed or a wall to block off your yard from the street. The only downside is that it requires access to formwork for buildings which can be expensive to rent.

Poured concrete walls can be designed and colored in various ways in order to make them more aesthetically pleasing. You can choose to expose the aggregate of the underlying soil and use colored pigments in the concrete to add vibrancy and texture.

In order to make it even more interesting, you can include pieces of rock and stone within the poured concrete before it has been set. You could also use stencils or stamps to add patterns or designs to the poured wall.

17. Railways Sleepers

Railway sleepers are an effective and affordable way to create a retaining wall in the garden. These are long pieces of timber cut into specific sizes to form a framework that is then filled with soil. Railway sleepers can be found in a variety of sizes and lengths making them suitable for most garden spaces.

They also come in a variety of different materials, such as hardwood, treated pine, redwood, and composite sleepers. These different types of sleepers allow for varied texture and stability in the wall.

Railway sleepers provide an attractive look to a garden with their rustic design. Installation is relatively straightforward, though the retaining wall should be constructed using cement or mortar between the sleepers for added support.

This helps keep soil from seeping through and helps keep the structure in place. Railway sleepers are easy to work with relatively inexpensive and can be used for other features in the garden such as steps or paths.

18. Stone Wall

Stone walls are a classic choice for many landscaping projects, particularly those that involve creating a retaining wall. Stone walls are reliable long-lasting, and can add a great deal of aesthetic appeal to any landscape. Stone walls are also a great choice for cheap retaining wall ideas, as they can be built with readily available materials.

Building a stone wall requires basic tools such as a shovel and a level and can often be done on your own without the need for additional labor or materials. One great option for cheap retaining wall options is to use salvaged or recycled stones or to simply gather or purchase some stones from an existing site or quarry.

In order to build a successful stone retaining wall, it is important, to begin with a properly designed base in order to ensure that the wall is both structurally sound and visually appealing. Consideration should be given to the type of soil and terrain, as well as the amount of space needed for the retaining wall.

Additionally, careful planning must go into the design and construction of the stone wall in order to ensure that it will fit into its intended environment. By taking these steps into account, you will end up with a beautiful, long-lasting stone wall that you can be proud of.

19. Simple Stacked Brick

Simple Stacked Brick is an affordable and easy-to-install retaining wall solution. It uses standard brick sizes making it quick and cost-effective to assemble. Stacked brick walls are relatively inexpensive compared to other retaining wall options as they require fewer materials to build. They are also incredibly strong, as the weight of the bricks helps to hold the stacked wall in place.

In addition, bricks are available in a variety of colors and textures allowing you to customize your design and fit the look of your landscaping. Stacked brick walls provide a sturdy and attractive foundation for any retaining wall project, with less effort and expense than other materials.

Simple Stacked Brick can be used for a wide range of projects from short free-standing walls to longer and higher walls that provide support for slopes or hillsides. They can also be used as an informal garden edging or flower bed border to give your landscaping a finished look.

Whether you’re looking for an economical way to create a raised garden bed or strengthen a slope for extra backyard protection, Simple Stacked Brick is an easy and reliable solution that won’t break your budget.

20. Cinder Blocks

Cinder blocks make great, inexpensive retaining wall options for residential projects. Not only are cinder blocks affordable and easy to install, but they also offer excellent structural stability and a timeless aesthetic.

Cinder blocks come in pre-made sizes and can be stacked in various interlocking configurations to create a sturdy wall without the need for mortar. Cinder blocks are also incredibly durable and can withstand a range of elements making them a great choice for outdoor projects. Additionally, cinder blocks come in a range of colors to add visual appeal to any landscape design.

When using cinder blocks as retaining walls, it is important to take the time to secure the blocks with concrete or another adhesive. This will ensure that your cinder block wall will stand up to the elements and have a long lifespan.

Additionally, waterproofing treatments can help prolong the life of your cinder block wall even further. By taking the time to properly install and secure cinder block walls you can have an inexpensive, attractive, and durable retaining wall solution.

Cheap Retaining Wall Ideas Frequently Asked Questions

What are some cheap ideas for building a retaining wall?
Some cheap ideas for building a retaining wall include using cinder blocks, bricks, or stones.

Another option is to create a wall using interlocking concrete blocks that are filled with gravel or soil. For a more natural look, you could use logs or timbers.

What are some ways to save money when building a retaining wall?
One way to save money when building a retaining wall is to use the cheapest retaining wall materials.

For example, instead of using bricks, you could use concrete blocks. Another way to save money is to build the wall yourself instead of hiring a contractor.

What are some tips for building a retaining wall on a budget?
One option for a cheap retaining wall is to use interlocking blocks that are easy to install and do not require a professional.

Another option is to use timber, which can be sourced cheaply from websites like Craigslist or Freecycle. If you are handy, you can also build a stone retaining wall yourself using materials from a home improvement store.

What are some things to consider when choosing materials for a retaining wall?
When choosing materials for a retaining wall, it is important to consider the weight of the materials, the strength of the materials, the climate, and the budget.

What are some common mistakes people make when building a retaining wall?
One common mistake people make when building a retaining wall is not ensuring that the wall is properly anchored.

The wall needs to be anchored to the ground with metal rods or cables that are driven into the ground.

The other common mistake is not properly compacting the soil behind the wall. The soil needs to be compacted in order to provide support for the wall.

What are some do-it-yourself retaining wall ideas?
There are several do-it-yourself retaining wall ideas that are relatively cheap and easy to implement. One such idea is to use interlocking blocks or bricks to create the retaining wall.

This method is often used for smaller walls or walls that do not need to support a lot of weight.

Another do-it-yourself retaining wall idea is to use wood logs or timbers. This method is often used for larger walls or walls that need to support a lot of weight.

What can be used instead of a retaining wall?
An earth embankment is an alternative to a retaining wall. It is created by compacting soil with heavy machinery to form a slope. The slope can be planted with grass or other vegetation to help prevent erosion.

What is the cheapest stone for a retaining wall?
There are many different types of stone that can be used for retaining walls, and the cheapest type of stone will vary depending on the location and project.

Some of the cheapest types of stone include concrete, brick, and gravel. These materials are typically very easy to find and purchase, and they can be used to create a variety of different designs.

It is important to note that the cheapest stone is not always the best option, as it may not be the most durable or aesthetically pleasing.

When choosing the best type of stone for a retaining wall, it is important to consider all of the factors involved in order to make the best decision.

What is the easiest retaining wall to build?
The easiest retaining wall to build is a gravity wall. Gravity walls rely on their weight to hold back the soil. They are usually made of concrete, stone, or brick.

Can I build a retaining wall myself?
Most people believe that they cannot build a retaining wall by themselves, but this is not true. With the right tools and materials, anyone can build a retaining wall.

The first step is to mark out the area where the retaining wall will be built. Next, start digging a trench for the foundation of the wall.

Once the trench is dug, mix concrete and pour it into the trench. After the concrete has dried, start building the blocks for the retaining wall.

When laying the blocks, be sure to use mortar in between each block. Once all the blocks are in place, finish off the top of the wall with either more concrete or soil.