What is a Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is a structure constructed to retain Backfilling, soil, rock, or other materials to create a difference in ground elevation. It is designed to Reduce the lateral movement or collapse of the retained material.
The retaining wall is used in various construction projects to Reduce erosion, Manage Slopes and Construct open space on uneven Terrain.
The Retaining wall is to be constructed on both residential and Commercial properties. They are Compound Walls, Gardens space, Highway Side walls, Irrigation channels, and Other Buildings part.
Different Types of materials can be used for the construction of the Retaining walls. Such as Brick Retaining walls, Stone retaining walls, Timber or Wood, Concrete, and Reinforced Soil.
These walls are typically made from a variety of materials, including concrete, stone, brick, timber, or reinforced soil. The selection of material depends on the desired aesthetic view, load-bearing requirements, site conditions, Purpose, and Cost.
Some Techniques of Retaining Walls Construct
Gravity Walls
Sheet Pile walls
Anchored Walls
Gabion Walls
All the Design and construction methods depend on the height of the wall, soil type or materials being retained, and site conditions. So which method is suitable for your requirement and site conditions? It depends on your selection.
The function of Retaining Walls is to soil retention, and enhance the area’s visual appeal by incorporating architectural elements and landscaping features. They are often engineered structures, requiring careful planning and design to ensure their stability and longevity.
What is the Purpose of Retaining Wall Construction?
The followings are the Main Purposes of the construction Of Retaining Walls:
| Purposes of Retaining Walls |
| To prevent soil erosion and landslides in residential areas |
| Creating level areas for gardening and landscaping |
| Supporting and protecting existing structures from soil movement |
| Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces |
| Creating terraced gardens to enhance greenery |
| Offering indoor and outdoor seating areas |
| Prevent damage to neighboring properties from soil movement |
| Supporting roads and highways to ensure safe travel |
| Stabilizing slopes while protecting natural habitats and wildlife |
| Prevent damage to underground utilities and infrastructure |
| Creating safe and usable spaces in hilly or sloping terrain |
| Reducing noise pollution by acting as a sound barrier |
| Providing privacy from neighboring properties |
| Protecting coastal areas from erosion and storm surges |
| Support and preservation of historic structures or landmarks |
| Creating recreational areas such as parks and playgrounds |
| Minimize flood damage by redirecting water flow |
| Enhancing the protection of buildings and structures against soil pressure |
| Allowing basements to be built in sloping areas |
| Protecting natural landscapes to prevent excessive mining |
| Increase property value by improving aesthetics and functionality |
| Providing stability to railway lines and embankments |
| Assist in the construction of retaining ponds for water management |
| To prevent loss of arable land in steep terrain |
| Protecting archaeological sites from erosion and degradation |
| Supporting and stabilizing retaining walls for underground parking lots |
| Creating pedestrian walkways and paths on slopes |
| Preventing damage to property and loss of property during earthquakes |
| Supporting and protecting pipelines and sewer systems |
| Reducing the impact of stormwater runoff and sedimentation |
| Supporting and stabilizing bridges and overpasses |
Advantages of Retaining Wall Construction
Increase Protection
Retaining walls provide a protective barrier against soil movement and erosion, ensuring the safety of people and neighboring properties.
Aesthetic Looks
Retaining walls can be designed to enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces, adding charm and visual appeal to residential and commercial areas.
Versatile functionality
They create level areas for gardening, landscaping, and outdoor activities, allowing people to fully enjoy their outdoor spaces.
Enhanced Property Value
Installing retaining walls can increase property value by improving the aesthetics and functionality of the landscape.
Improved access
Retaining walls can create terraced gardens and flat areas, making previously unused spaces accessible for gardening, seating, or recreational activities.
Environmentally friendly
Retaining walls help prevent soil erosion and preserve natural habitats, contributing to the preservation of the environment and wildlife.
Noise Reduction
Acting as a sound barrier, retaining walls can help reduce noise pollution from nearby streets or neighboring properties, creating a more peaceful environment.
Privacy Enhancement
By acting as a barrier, retaining walls provide privacy from neighboring properties, allowing individuals to enjoy their outdoor spaces without feeling exposed.
Preservation of Historic Sites
Retaining walls can support and protect historic structures or landmarks, ensuring their longevity and cultural significance.
Disaster Prevention
Walls help prevent damage and loss of life in natural disasters such as landslides and earthquakes.
Sustainable construction
They reduce the need for excessive excavation and land disturbance, promoting sustainable construction practices.
Water management
Retaining walls can be designed to redirect and manage stormwater runoff, reducing flood risk and preventing erosion.
Increased Usable Space
By creating level areas on sloping terrain, retaining walls maximize usable space in residential areas, providing opportunities for gardening, relaxation, and outdoor activities.
Support for infrastructure
Retaining walls provide stability and support for roads, bridges, pipelines, and underground utilities, ensuring the functionality and longevity of infrastructure systems.
Encouraging outdoor living
With retaining walls, outdoor living spaces such as patios, living areas, and outdoor kitchens can be created, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors and enjoy nature.
Safe Travel
Ensures the safety of roads and highways by stabilizing slopes and preventing soil movement, retaining walls, and facilitating smooth and safe travel for pedestrians and vehicles.
Community gathering spaces
Retaining walls can be designed to include living spaces, parks, and playgrounds, fostering a sense of community and providing spaces for social interaction and recreation.
Accessibility for People
Well-designed retaining walls with appropriate paths and ramps can improve accessibility for people with mobility challenges, allowing them to easily navigate slow terrain.
Sustainable Agriculture
Placing walls helps prevent the loss of agricultural land in lowland areas, supporting sustainable farming practices and food production.
Coastal Protection
Prevents erosion and storm surges, protects coastal areas by maintaining seawalls, and preserves the beauty and ecological balance of coastal ecosystems.
Integration with nature
Walls can be designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, complement the surroundings and maintain the ecological balance of the area.
Utilization of underground space
Retaining walls provide support for underground parking lots, basements, and other underground structures, optimizing space utilization in urban areas.
Educational Opportunities
Retaining walls in parks and public spaces can serve as educational tools, providing information about erosion control, landscaping techniques, and environmental protection.
Preservation of Archaeological Sites
Retaining walls allow for the preservation and stabilization of archaeological sites, the preservation of historical artifacts, and further exploration and research.
Erosion Prevention
Retaining walls prevent soil erosion, protect slope integrity and prevent loss of valuable soil resources.
Visual Harmony
Well-designed retaining walls can enhance the overall visual harmony of a landscape, seamlessly integrate with the surroundings and create a sense of tranquility.
Sustainable Land Development
Retaining walls promote sustainable land development practices by minimizing soil disturbance and supporting ecological balance.
Recreational opportunities
Retaining walls can provide outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking trails, and nature walks that encourage physical fitness and recreation.
Types of Retaining Wall Construction
There are different types of Retaining walls that should be constructed depending on the nature of location, Requirements, and Budget Friendly. I have included the following some important types of Retain walls mentioned with details:
- Gravity Retaining Walls
- Gabin Retaining Walls
- Cantilever Retaining Walls
- Crib Retaining Walls
- Counter-fort Retaining Walls
- Anchored Retaining Walls
- Sheet Piled Retaining Walls
- Mechanical Stabilized Earth Retaining Walls
- Buttrest Retaining Walls
- Segmental Retaining Walls
- Tight Back Retaining walls
Gravity Retaining Walls
Gravity retaining walls are structures designed to resist soil pressure and maintain it statically.
These walls rely on their weight and mass to resist the forces exerted by the soil behind them.
They are commonly used in landscaping and civil engineering to create level surfaces, prevent erosion, and provide structural stability.
Gravity retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials such as concrete, stone, brick, or even wood.
The weight of the wall, combined with its wide base and rear slope. They create stability and prevent it from tipping or sliding.
The height and thickness of the gravity retaining wall depend on the specific soil conditions and the amount of pressure it needs to withstand.
Proper drainage is essential to the longevity and effectiveness of gravity retaining walls. It helps prevent water from pooling behind the wall, which can cause instability.
In some cases, additional reinforcement, such as steel bars or geosynthetic materials, may be used on the wall for added strength and stability.
Gravity retaining walls are often used in terraced gardens, roadways, and waterfront areas to create usable space and prevent soil erosion.
Regular inspection and maintenance of gravity retaining walls is essential to identify any signs of damage and to ensure their long-term functionality.
Advantages and disadvantages of Gravity Wall
| Advantages of Gravity Retaining Walls | Disadvantages of Gravity Retaining Walls |
|---|---|
| 1. Cost-effective construction method | 1. Limited height capabilities |
| 2. Requires less maintenance | 2. Requires ample space for construction |
| 3. Offers excellent stability | 3. Not suitable for soft or loose soil |
| 4. Can be constructed with various materials | 4. Limited design flexibility |
| 5. Allows for easy installation | 5. May require specialized expertise |
Gabin Retaining Walls
Gabion retaining walls are strong structures that help prevent soil erosion and support slopes, ensuring stability and safety.
The wall is constructed of a combination of concrete blocks and metal reinforcement to provide a durable and long-lasting.
Gabine walls are designed to withstand significant pressure from the soil to ensure they remain intact even in challenging conditions.
This wall can be used in a variety of applications including residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
Gabion retaining walls offer an aesthetically pleasing solution. They can be customized with different finishes and textures to complement the surrounding environment.
Installing Gabin walls is a relatively quick and straightforward process to minimize disruption to the construction site or surrounding areas.
Gabion walls require less maintenance after being installed to make them a cost-effective solution for the long term.
Gabion retaining walls help preserve the integrity of surrounding structures and landscapes, preserving their beauty and functionality.
The design of the gabion walls allows for effective drainage, reducing the risk of water pooling and potential damage to the wall.
Gabion retaining walls are an eco-friendly option to promote soil conservation and contribute to sustainable land development practices.
Advantages and disadvantages of Gabin Wall
| Advantages of Gabion Retaining Walls | Disadvantages of Gabion Retaining Walls |
|---|---|
| 1. Cost-effective construction method. | 1. Limited aesthetic appeal. |
| 2. Quick and easy installation. | 2. Vulnerable to damage from shifting soil or seismic activity. |
| 3. Excellent drainage capabilities. | 3. Requires regular maintenance to prevent vegetation growth. |
| 4. Flexible and adaptable to uneven terrain. | 4. Limited height and load-bearing capacity. |
| 5. Provides natural habitat for wildlife. | 5. Possibility of rust and corrosion in the long term. |
Cantilever Retaining Walls
Cantilever retaining walls are structures constructed to hold back soil and prevent erosion to create usable space in areas with varying elevations.
With a base that extends into the ground and a wall that leans backward, they operate by applying the concept of leverage. This resists the pressure the earth is exerting.
Reinforced concrete is a common material for these walls since it offers strength and longevity. The materials used to guarantee that the wall can bear the pressure that the retained dirt puts on it.
Cantilever retaining walls are a popular choice due to their stability and versatility. They can be used in various settings, such as residential landscapes, commercial developments, and highway construction.
The design of a cantilever retaining wall includes a base called the footing. which spreads the load over a wider area and prevents the wall from tipping forward.
The shape of the Wall is like an inverted “T,” with a stem extending into the ground and a horizontal portion that supports the backfill.
These walls have additional features like buttresses or counterforts. These are short walls or beams connected to the main wall at regular intervals.
Proper drainage is essential for the longevity of cantilever retaining walls. Adequate drainage systems are installed to prevent water buildup behind the wall.
Construction of cantilever retaining walls requires careful planning and engineering expertise to ensure the wall can withstand the expected loads and pressures.
Cantilever retaining walls can be aesthetic looks as well. They can be finished with various surface treatments, such as textured concrete, stone veneers, or even greenery.
Advantages and disadvantages of Cantilever Wall
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 1. Suitable for a variety of soil conditions. | 1. Requires careful design and engineering expertise. |
| 2. Allows for more usable space behind the wall. | 2. Construction can be complex and time-consuming. |
| 3. Provides stability against lateral pressure. | 3. May require additional support for taller walls. |
| 4. Minimal excavation required during construction. | 4. Costlier compared to other retaining wall types. |
| 5. Long-lasting and durable with proper design. | 5. Maintenance and repairs can be challenging. |
Crib Retaining Walls
Crib retaining walls are reinforced structures built to hold soil or other materials back.
They are interlocking rectangular or square units stacked in a stepped structure.
Crib walls are usually made of wood, concrete, or steel.
These walls provide excellent support and stability to prevent soil erosion or collapse.
Crib retaining walls are often used in landscaping, construction, and road projects.
They are designed to evenly distribute the weight of the soil for added strength.
Crib walls can be easily installed and offer flexibility in terms of height and length.
The modular nature of crib units allows for efficient construction and customization.
These walls are known for their durability and resistance to environmental factors.
Crib retaining walls are an effective solution for creating level terraces or managing elevation changes.
Advantages and disadvantages of Crib Wall
| Advantages of Crib Retaining Walls | Disadvantages of Crib Retaining Walls |
|---|---|
| 1. High load-bearing capacity | 1. Higher cost compared to other retaining wall options |
| 2. Flexible design options | 2. Requires professional installation and expertise |
| 3. Durable and long-lasting | 3. Limited to certain height limitations |
| 4. Environmentally friendly | 4. Requires regular maintenance to prevent deterioration |
| 5. Provides effective soil stabilization | 5. Limited aesthetic appeal compared to other retaining wall types |
Counter-fort Retaining Walls
Counter-fort retaining walls use triangular-shaped support structures.
They rest on a series of evenly spaced concrete counterforts.
Counterforts help distribute the weight of soil pressure.
These walls are designed to resist lateral soil movement.
They are generally used to hold large quantities of soil.
Counter-fort walls provide stability and prevent soil erosion.
Counterforts add strength and reinforcement to the wall.
This type of retaining wall is cost-effective and efficient.
Counter-fort walls are suitable for residential and commercial projects.
They offer an aesthetically pleasing solution for landscape design.
Advantages and disadvantages of Counter-fort Wall
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 1. Cost-effective | 1. Limited design flexibility |
| 2. Offers structural support | 2. Requires additional space behind |
| 3. Resistant to lateral loads | the wall for the counter-forts |
| 4. Provides stability | 3. May require skilled labor for |
| 5. Durable and long-lasting | construction and maintenance |
| 6. Suitable for taller walls | 4. Prone to water seepage through joints between the counter-forts |
Anchored retaining walls
Anchored retaining walls provide structural support for soil or other materials, preventing them from shifting or collapsing.
They use anchors or tiebacks extending into the ground to anchor the wall and resist lateral pressure.
Anchored walls are generally used in areas with limited space or high soil pressure.
These walls Should be constructed with concrete, steel, or wood.
Anchors are usually made of steel bars or cables and are installed at an angle to increase their effectiveness.
Anchored retaining walls are designed to evenly distribute the forces exerted by the soil.
They are suitable for both temporary and permanent applications, depending on project requirements.
Anchors are secured to a stable structure. Such as a concrete slab or pile cap, providing additional support.
Anchored walls are a cost-effective solution for managing slope stability and preventing soil erosion.
Proper engineering design and installation are Required for the long-term performance and safety of anchored walls.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Anchored Wall
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Provides high structural stability | Requires specialized engineering and construction |
| Can withstand heavy loads and high lateral pressures | Higher initial cost compared to other retaining walls |
| Suitable for tall and large-scale retaining structures | Anchoring system requires regular maintenance |
| Offers flexibility in design and aesthetics | Limited applicability in certain soil conditions |
| Resistant to soil movement and settlement | Potential for corrosion of anchor materials |
| Allows for effective utilization of limited space | Long-term performance may be influenced by anchor aging |
Sheet Piled Retaining Walls
- Sheet-piled retaining walls provide Strong support for soil.
- They consist of interlocking steel sheets.
- Sheet piles create a barrier against lateral earth pressure.
- These walls are commonly used in construction and civil engineering.
- They help prevent soil erosion and landslides.
- Sheet-piled walls can be installed quickly and efficiently.
- They are a cost-effective solution for retaining soil.
- These walls can be designed to withstand varying soil conditions.
- Sheet-piled retaining walls are durable and long-lasting.
- They offer a versatile solution for retaining structures in tight spaces.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sheet-Piled Wall
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Provides effective soil retention | Limited vertical height capabilities |
| Quick and efficient installation | Limited aesthetic appeal |
| Suitable for various soil conditions | Potential for corrosion and deterioration |
| Can be installed in limited space | Limited load-bearing capacity |
| Allows for flexibility and adaptability | Potential for seepage or water leakage |
| Provides stability in soft or loose soils | High initial cost |
| Offers noise and vibration reduction | Maintenance and repair requirements |
| Can be easily removed or relocated | Environmental concerns (steel production) |
Mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls
Mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls are structures that provide support and stability to soil or earth.
They use reinforcement elements such as steel strips or geosynthetic materials to increase their strength.
These walls are commonly used in construction projects to prevent soil erosion and systematically retain soil.
They are designed to withstand lateral pressure exerted by soil or other materials.
Mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls are a cost-effective alternative to traditional retaining walls to provide structural integrity and economic benefits.
They can be constructed using a variety of methods, including segmental blocks or panels, creating a flexible and adaptable solution.
These walls are often used in transportation infrastructure projects. Such as highways or railways, to support embankments and slopes.
The use of reinforcement materials distributes the loads more evenly, reducing the risk of wall failure.
Mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls can be designed to accommodate various soil conditions and project requirements.
Proper construction techniques and regular maintenance ensure the durability and effectiveness of these walls in the long run.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Mechanically stabilized earth Wall
| Advantages | DIs-Advantages |
| Cost-effective construction | Limited applicability in high-seismic areas |
| Quick and efficient installation | Not suitable for tall retaining walls |
| Minimal land disruption | Requires skilled engineering and design |
| Versatile and adaptable | Potential for corrosion in metallic reinforcements |
| Durable and long-lasting | Limited aesthetic appeal compared to other options |
| Resistant to environmental factors | Maintenance may be required over time |
Segmental Retaining Wall
Segmental Retaining Walls are structures used to support and retain soil.
They are made up of individual interlocking concrete blocks or stones.
These walls are a popular choice for landscaping and erosion control.
They can be easily installed and require less maintenance.
Segmental Retaining Walls are designed to withstand heavy loads and provide long-term stability.
They are versatile and can be used to create straight or curved walls.
These walls can endure the weather and the elements.
This is an environmentally friendly option due to made from recycled materials.
Segmental Retaining Walls can enhance the aesthetics of outdoor spaces and add value to properties.
They are cost-effective and offer a durable solution for residential and commercial projects.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Segmental Wall
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 1. Cost-effective and economical | 1. Limited height capabilities |
| 2. Environmentally friendly | 2. Requires professional design and expertise |
| 3. Durable and long-lasting | 3. May require regular maintenance |
| 4. Easy and quick installation | 4. Limited design flexibility |
| 5. Can accommodate moderate slopes | 5. Not suitable for high-load applications |
| 6. Allows for efficient water drainage | 6. May be prone to erosion in certain conditions |
Process for Construction Retaining Wall
The wall is constructed in sloping terrain. So we need to know how to build a retaining wall step by step process. The followings are the construction process of a retaining wall construction in the slope:
Planning and Design
Determine the purpose and location of the retaining wall.
Assess the soil conditions, drainage requirements, and load-bearing capacity.
Develop a design that suits the specific site conditions and meets the project goals.
Excavation
Excavate the area where the retaining wall will be built.
The depth and width of the excavation will depend on the planned height and dimensions of the wall.
Ensure that the foundation is level and compacted.
Foundation Preparation
Prepare the foundation by adding a layer of compacted granular material, such as gravel or crushed stone.
This provides stability and helps with drainage.
The depth of the foundation will depend on the height and load of the wall.
Base Course Installation
Install the first course of the retaining wall.
This course typically consists of large, strong blocks or stones that form the base of the wall.
Ensure that the blocks are level and properly aligned.
Use a level and a string line to ensure accuracy.
Interlocking Block Placement
Continue building the retaining wall by placing interlocking blocks or stones on top of the base course.
Interlocking blocks have grooves and protrusions that fit together to provide stability to the wall.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
Compaction and Backfilling
As the wall is constructed, compact the soil behind the wall in thin layers.
Use a compactor or a hand tamper to ensure proper compaction.
Backfill the area behind the wall with suitable materials like crushed stone or well-draining soil.
This helps with drainage and provides additional stability to the wall.
Drainage and Waterproofing
Install appropriate drainage systems, such as weep holes or perforated pipes, to prevent water buildup behind the wall.
Additionally, consider applying a waterproofing membrane or coating to protect the wall from water infiltration.
Finishing and Landscaping
Finish the retaining wall by adding any desired aesthetic features such as capstones or decorative facing.
Restore the surrounding landscape by grading and reseeding as needed.
What are the safety Factors of Retaining Walls Construction?
The minimum Safety Factor is 1.5. You should design a wall considering safety factors. The factor of Safety 3.0 is a minimum safety factor for bearing capacity.
Best Materials for Construction of Retaining Wall
The Selection of the Right materials is most important to the construction of a strong Retaining Wall.
The constructed Retaining wall’s stability, durability, and performance are depends on the selection of materials. So materials and manpower are most important to any construction. I have included some useful materials for the construction of the Retaining Wall:
Concrete Blocks
This is the most common choice of materials to construct strong and durable Retaining walls. This is available in various sizes, shapes, and textures. You can choose your best materials for the wall construction. It depends on your choice of versatile design options. Concrete blocks are stable and resistant to weather, conditions making them suitable for long-lasting retaining walls.
Natural Stone
This is also used for the construction of retaining walls. The materials give a natural look to the wall. You can easily available of this stone naturally. You can give different shape sizes and texture designs in the stone. This type of stone is available in the market as granite, marble, and limestone. This gives attractive and Strong strength to retaining wall construction. This is also called interlocking retaining wall blocks. The stone block makes it a reliable choice for supporting soil and preventing erosion.
Timber
The construction of Retaining wall using Timber are a popular choice for its affordability and rustic charm. This type of timber is Treated timber. This is called pressure-treated lumber or hardwood. It can provide sufficient strength and resistance to decay. It is essential to choose high-quality, rot-resistant timber and properly maintain it to prevent damage over time.
Gabion Baskets
Gabion walls are made with wire mesh baskets that are filled with stones or gravel. This type of construction provides both strength and aesthetic appeal. The rock-filled baskets are suited for a variety of soil types since they provide good stability and allow for natural water drainage.
Comparison Between Stone vs Concrete vs Timber
The followings are the comparison between different types of retaining wall construction materials. If you have some other please comment down:
| Comparison Criteria | Stone | Concrete | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | High | High | Moderate to High |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Weather Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Natural, Elegant | Versatile | Rustic, Warm |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Cost | High | Moderate | Moderate to Low |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | High |
| Lifespan | Long-lasting | Long-lasting | Moderate to Long |
| Erosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Environmental Impact | Natural, Minimal | Moderate | Natural |
| Availability | Varied | Widely available | Widely available |
| Customization Options | Limited | Extensive | Extensive |
| Adaptability to Slopes | Good | Good | Good |
| Resistance to Pests | Resistant | Resistant | Susceptible |
| Construction Time | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Water Drainage | Good | Good | Moderate |
| Noise Insulation | Good | Good | Good |
| Fire Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Poor |
| Structural Flexibility | Limited | High | Limited |
Conclusions
Retaining walls are flexible structures that are used in a wide range of building projects to hold soil, prevent erosion, and create level areas. They provide a variety of functions, including improving the appearance of outdoor settings, supporting existing buildings, and preventing soil movement. Retaining wall construction using a variety of materials and techniques, each with advantages and disadvantages.
Gravity walls are supported by their weight and bulk, whereas gabion walls are supported by wire mesh baskets packed with stones. Anchored walls utilize anchors or tiebacks for support, while cantilever walls use the principle of leverage. Crib walls are made out of interlocking rectangular sections, whereas segmental walls are made up of interlocking concrete blocks. Each wall type has its own set of applications and issues in terms of cost, design flexibility, installation, and maintenance.
FAQs for the Construction of Retaining Wall
What is a cantilever retaining wall?
A wall that uses leverage to resist soil pressure, with a base extending into the ground and a wall leaning backward.
What is a crib retaining wall?
A wall is constructed using interlocking rectangular or square units stacked in a stepped structure.
What are the types of retaining wall construction?
Gravity walls, gabion walls, cantilever walls, crib walls, counter-fort walls, anchored walls, sheet piled walls, mechanically stabilized earth walls, buttress walls, and segmental walls.
What are Interlocking concrete blocks?
Interlocking concrete blocks are incredibly easy to install. They have a unique design that allows them to fit securely together. It can be installed horizontally and vertically without the need for any mortar. Each block has projections and depressions that interlock with other similar blocks.
How thick is the Retaining wall?
The base thick is not less than 12 inches and the stem thick is 6 inches.