Build a Retaining Wall
A slope can provide visual interest in an otherwise flat yard, but it can be difficult to landscape because of soil erosion from water runoff. A solution is to terrace the site by building a retaining wall that prevents erosion, and at the same time creates a raised area for planting.

To build a 3-foot-high, 20-foot-long retaining wall, a landscaper will charge $950. You can buy the materials and do the work for $450, saving over 50 percent. This is not a job for the faint of heart because it involves some heavy-duty landscaping work with many hours of sweat equity.Pro vs DIY Cost and Time

Using a lightweight retaining wall system by Alan Block Junior, the steps include: digging a trench for the first layer of sand or gravel and base block, and then leveling it smooth; installing and leveling the next layers so the seams are staggered and edges fit together; then backfilling and packing their pockets to lock the blocks in place.

You'll need a wheelbarrow, shovel, carpenter's level, string line, line level and hammer. Have on hand a tamping tool, circular saw with a masonry blade and a chisel.

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