Concrete block retaining walls (the popular Allan Block walls) are one of the most commonly installed retaining wall systems generally referred to as ‘Allan Block retaining wall installations’, at new construction projects. Itโs a proven and effective method of retaining soil, and itโs extremely versatile for conforming to landscape and architectural designs and layouts. Concrete retaining wall blocks also come in many colour and finish options, which gives you a lot of flexibility to create an aesthetically pleasing landscape that fits the property.
If youโre searching for an Allan block wall, an Allan block retaining wall, retaining wall blocks, concrete retaining wall blocks, or wall blocks, this page will help you understand what matters most before you build.
Why homeowners choose an Allan block wall for residential projects
Residential homeowners are upgrading older timber retaining walls to an Allan Block retaining wall more and more often when itโs time to replace. Timber can be cost-effective, but it has a limited lifespan and once it starts to rot, bow, or shift, it can become an ongoing repair cycle. A properly installed block wall retaining wall is a stronger long-term structure, and itโs a safer option for sloped yards, raised patios, and landscaped areas where you want the wall to stay put and perform year after year.
Retaining wall blocks need correct installation (even though itโs concrete)
PLEASE NOTE Correct installation is extremely necessary for this wall to last even though it is concrete. If a gravel base is not packed enough, you will have sinking blocks. If an effective water management system is not put in place, hydrostatic pressure will build after rainfall and can compromise an entire wall.
Geogrid is the โtiebackโ system for block walls, and it is primarily required for walls over 4โฒ high. Walls below 4โฒ high are typically constructed as gravity walls.
Biggest Pro / Biggest Con
Biggest Pro
Concrete block walls are very versatile and will last a lifetime when installed correctly. They are one of the best values for the money.
Biggest Con
Cost is often close to double that of timber walls, depending on wall height, access, and whatโs required for drainage and reinforcement.
Common uses for an Allan block retaining wall
A block retaining wall is a great fit for projects like
- Sloped yards that need usable flat space
- Tiered landscaping and garden beds
Patio edges and raised areas - Entry features and steps
- Strata common areas where long-term performance matters
- New builds where retaining is part of the grading plan
Design flexibility (why these walls are so popular)
Concrete retaining wall blocks allow you to build straight runs, corners, gentle curves, steps, and tiered layouts. This is a big reason Allan Block walls are so common in landscaping and new construction โ you can make the wall work with the site, instead of forcing the site to work with the wall.
Looking for a cleaner, more space-saving option? Explore NORTHERNLINEยฎ GRANIK WALL
If you like the finished look of an Allan Block retaining wall but youโre working with a tighter property line or want a cleaner, straight modern finish, itโs worth taking a look at NORTHERNLINEยฎ GRANIK WALL. Itโs a solid precast concrete sleeper wall system that can be a great fit for strata boundaries and residential yards where you donโt want to give up usable space.
Getting a quote
Start by confirming the wall height. If the wall will be over 4โฒ, youโll need a geotechnical engineer to provide drawings and any site-specific requirements. Once you have the drawings, contact us to quote and plan the install. If the wall is below 4โฒ, or if you can terrace the wall into sections no greater than 4โฒ, contact us.
To price an Allan block retaining wall accurately, we usually need to book a site visit to get the info:
- Approximate wall length
- Approximate wall height (lowest point to highest point)
- Any access limitations (tight spaces, narrow side yards)
- Site conditions (slope and drainage)
- New wall vs replacement (removal/disposal)
Book a site visit
Weโd love to help you build your retaining wall. Contact us for a free quote and weโll book a site visit to review your space, take measurements, and talk through the best option for your yard or property. Every project is different, and weโll make sure your retaining wall is planned and built properly for your site conditions.