Retaining Wall Block Calculator
Free masonry tool

Retaining Wall Block Calculator

Enter wall length and height to see courses, blocks, cap pieces and drainage stone to plan for.

These tools give planning-level estimates from typical values. They are not quotes, designs or engineering, and results depend on your actual materials, site conditions, structure and local rules. Only a site visit can confirm what a project needs, and we give you a written scope and price before any work begins.

How it works

Four quick steps.

  1. 01

    Enter the wall

    Length and finished height in feet.

  2. 02

    Pick the block size

    Small garden block or large retaining block.

  3. 03

    Read the courses

    How many rows, including the buried first row.

  4. 04

    Read the materials

    Blocks, cap pieces and drainage stone.

Tips

  • Bury the first course below grade for stability.
  • Plan drainage stone and a drain pipe behind every wall.
  • Walls taller than about four feet usually need engineering and a permit.
Questions

About this tool.

Is this an engineered design?

No. It is a planning quantity. Taller walls need engineering and local approval.

Why bury the first course?

A buried first course locks the wall in place and keeps the face from sliding forward.

Do I need a drain pipe?

Drainage behind the wall is the most important part of the design. We plan it on every wall.

Free estimate

Ready to build something that lasts?

Call us and we will visit your property, look closely at the work and give you a clear plan and a written scope.

Call NowFree Estimate