Question 1

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a failing retaining wall?

Accepted Answer

Walls that have moved less than an inch and have intact base and drainage can often be stabilized for 30-50% of replacement cost. Walls with bulging, visible base failure, or rotting timber almost always cost more to repair than to replace properly. We give you both numbers in writing so you can make an informed decision — and our PE-stamped reports are accepted by insurance and HOAs.

Question 2

Who replaces failed railroad tie retaining walls?

Accepted Answer

ERWalls replaces dozens of failed railroad tie walls across NC, GA, and TN every year. Old ties rot from the inside out, especially in our wet mountain climate. We tear out the old wall, properly excavate and compact the base, install drainage, and rebuild with engineered modular block. Replacement walls last 50+ years versus 15-20 for the original ties.

Question 3

Can a leaning retaining wall be straightened?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes — but only if the lean is less than 2 degrees, the base is intact, and the cause has been identified and fixed. We use earth anchors or soil nails to pull the wall back into plumb, then stabilize with regraded backfill and proper drainage. If the base has shifted or the lean exceeds 2 degrees, full replacement is the safer call.

Question 4

How long does a retaining wall replacement take?

Accepted Answer

Typical residential replacement takes 5-15 working days from start to finish — about 2-3 days for tear-out and excavation, 1-2 days for base prep and drainage, and 2-10 days for the new wall depending on length and height. Permits and engineering add 2-4 weeks before construction begins. Emergency repairs can be expedited.

Question 5

Is retaining wall replacement covered by homeowners insurance?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes — depends on the cause. Damage from a covered event (storm, fallen tree, vehicle impact) is usually covered. Damage from gradual failure, poor original construction, or normal wear is typically not. Our PE-stamped damage reports document the cause clearly, which helps adjusters approve covered claims faster. We also bill insurance carriers directly when authorized.

Question 6

How long should a properly built retaining wall last?

Accepted Answer

Engineered modular block walls (Magnumstone, Redi-Rock, Allan Block, Versa-Lok) installed with proper base, geogrid, and drainage have a service life of 50-100+ years. Poured concrete with rebar, similar. Boulder walls with proper engineering, 75+ years. Railroad tie walls, 15-20 years if you're lucky. Untreated timber, 5-10. Our 1,000+ walls in service have zero documented failures.

ENGINEERED
RETAINING
WALLS®

(706) 970-0704

Retaining Wall Repair & Replacement

What are the most common signs a retaining wall needs repair?

Is a leaning or bulging retaining wall an emergency?

Can a failing retaining wall be repaired instead of rebuilt?

What causes most retaining walls to fail?

How does ERWalls stabilize a failing wall?

How long does retaining wall repair or replacement take?

Do you need an engineer for repairs or replacement?

Will a properly rebuilt retaining wall last long-term?

Do you offer warranties on retaining wall work?

Can you repair walls on lake or no-road-access properties?

What is a big-block retaining wall system?

What big-block brands does ERWalls install?

When are big-block walls better than standard segmental block walls?

Can big-block walls be built as reinforced MSE/geogrid walls?

How tall can big-block retaining walls be built?

Do big-block walls need drainage like other retaining walls?

Are big-block walls good for hard-access lake or mountain properties?

What is the difference between Redi-Rock and MagnumStone?

Do big-block retaining walls require an engineer?

How long do big-block retaining walls last?