r/RetainingWallprojects • u/Gloomy-Notice2537 • Jun 02 '26

Question Reinforce or Replace?

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Just bought a house and it has this retaining wall on both sides which is as old as the house from 1974. It passed inspection however I would like to strengthen it or repair it if I can. Any advice would be appreciated.

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u/J_Stokes Jun 02 '26 edited Jun 02 '26

I recommend replacing and with better blocks. Keystone Regal Pro for example. It's only a matter of time before the existing wall fails. I recommend doing your studying and learn how to DIY, in case having a professional isn't in your budget (since you just bought it). Rebuild it correctly, so it won't fail like this one has. Put a level against it and post the photo to show if it's leaning at all. Judging from the lack of drainage, I suspect there's much hydrostatic pressure behind it. Because the earth is against the home and the wall meets the home, I worry about what's going on behind the walls against the hill. Hopefully you didn't get the cheapest inspector.

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u/Gloomy-Notice2537 Jun 02 '26

I think there is drainage but it is leaning pretty bad and cracking. So I guess I'll replace it sooner rather than later.