Last Updated: April 2026
A Retaining wall can have a variety of purposes. They can be used to slow or prevent erosion. They can be used to create a flat surface of land along a sloping hill. They can also be used to create an attractive addition to your Naperville property, brightening up the backyard.
Some common building materials for retaining walls include poured concrete, brick, stone, pavers or even wood. The materials used, the size and dimensions of the wall, and some of the surrounding conditions (how big of slope, how easy is the ground to access?) can all factor into how much a retaining wall costs. Another factor that can drive cost is if the wall needs to curve.
You can save some money on building a retaining wall by doing it yourself, but you risk completing a landscaping project that will not be of professional quality. Building a retaining wall as a DIY project also involves a considerable amount of digging and heavy lifting, so it definitely requires being in good shape. A professional landscaper can help you complete a project that will be of value for many years to come.
Moisture is the enemy of a retaining wall. This is another reason to consider hiring a professional landscaper with retaining wall experience. If moisture sets into your retaining wall, and there is not adequate means for drainage, cracks can form, damaging the product, and shortening its life. Properly draining the wall needs to be taken into consideration during the building process in order to prevent future damage.
Take the time to consider the right material and size during the planning process. Sometimes spending a little more at the onset of the project can ensure that the wall will last longer, becoming a more solid investment.
Are you looking to have a retaining wall built on your property now? Contact a professional landscaper now!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What projects can Unilock pavers be used for in the Fox Valley area?
- Unilock produces both paving and wall products, so the range of applications is broad: patios, driveways, front walkways, pool surrounds, garden steps, retaining walls, raised planters, and seat walls. Unilock’s Pisa2 and Brussels Dimensional wall blocks are popular for retaining walls and raised patio borders throughout the Oswego, Yorkville, and Naperville area. Mixing complementary Unilock paving and wall products creates a cohesive, custom-designed look.
- Can Unilock pavers be used for a retaining wall in Illinois?
- Yes — Unilock’s wall block products are engineered for structural retaining wall applications. For walls taller than 4 feet in Illinois, engineering plans and a permit are typically required regardless of the block brand. BLC Yardworks handles permitting and has extensive experience designing and installing retaining walls that manage grade changes throughout the Fox Valley area.
- How do I find a certified Unilock contractor near Oswego or Naperville?
- Unilock’s contractor certification program (Unilock Authorized Contractor) designates installers who meet training and installation standards. BLC Yardworks is an experienced Unilock installer serving Oswego, Yorkville, Plainfield, Naperville, and Aurora. You can also visit the Unilock website’s contractor locator — but always verify experience by asking to see a portfolio of local completed projects and checking references.
Related Resources: Unilock vs Belgard Pavers | Retaining Wall Cost in Illinois | Hardscaping Services
Written by BLC Yardworks — Fox Valley hardscaping, landscaping, and water feature contractors serving Oswego, Yorkville, Plainfield, Naperville, and surrounding communities since 1999.