Block counts are only part of a retaining wall estimate. The base trench, leveling pad, rear cut, imported backfill, drainage aggregate and drain-pipe run all affect material quantities. CurveSet's mobile app lets you enter sitework dimensions to build takeoffs and inspect construction views alongside the wall.
For a simple rectangular leveling-pad estimate, volume is length × width × thickness. Use consistent units; convert cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27. Compaction and ordering allowances depend on the material and local supplier.
Measure the actual trench path, including curves. Don't assume the top-course arc length equals the footprint of the excavation.
Backfill aggregate quantities depend on the height, width, length, layout and drainage system selected. Drain-pipe quantities depend on actual route length, outlets and fittings. The appropriate details vary by wall system and site conditions.
Use the manufacturer's current instructions and engineering requirements for drainage and reinforcement specifications.
CurveSet has separate inputs for rear cut width and average excavation depth, plus imported backfill width and height. Those measured sections feed distinct excavation and backfill quantities. Leave optional sections unassessed rather than treating unknown dimensions as zero.
The retained soil shown in 3D is a visual context layer, not automatically a fill order.
Configure a separate interceptor/French drain trench and pipe in addition to the wall collector drain. Optional filter-fabric and engineer-specified geogrid inputs support quantity planning when those elements are part of an approved project specification.
These features estimate materials. They do not design reinforcement, grade, drainage outlets or structural safety.
Switch between wall-only, excavation, construction cutaway and finished landscape views, including measured excavation and imported backfill layers.
Review blocks and caps alongside configurable trench excavation, leveling pad, drainage aggregate, imported backfill and pipe quantities.
Calculating a curved wall? See the worked radius, block-count and waste guide before estimating excavation and backfill.