Retaining Wall
What is a Retaining Wall?
A retaining wall is constructed after excavation or filling an embankment to provide support, preventing soil from eroding or collapsing. Various factors affect the integrity of retaining walls, such as lateral earth pressure and poor drainage. These factors can be managed by seeking the professional advice of a geotechnical engineer.
Types of Retaining Walls
The nature of the soil is crucial when constructing a retaining wall. The basic parameters of the soil include unit weight, angle of friction, and cohesion. The design of retaining walls depends on these soil parameters, lateral pressure, and individual component strength. Common materials used for retaining walls include timber, stone, brick, and concrete.
The most commonly used retaining walls include:
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Gravity Walls
Use self-weight to resist lateral earth pressures.
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Semi-Gravity Walls
Use self-weight, vertical soil components, weight above footing, and steel reinforcement.
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Cantilever Walls
Use a concrete base or footings to hold the wall and resist overturning or sliding due to lateral earth pressures.
Earth Retaining Structures
Earth retaining structures are constructed to hold back soil and maintain a difference in the elevation of the ground surface. They are built to withstand the forces exerted by the retained ground or to transmit forces safely to the foundation.
Factors to Consider When Building a Retaining Wall
Several factors must be considered when designing or building a retaining wall, including
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Easements and Property Boundaries
Ensure the wall doesn’t encroach on neighboring properties or violate regulations.
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Underground Services
Account for existing utilities to avoid damage or interference.
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Surface Topography and Slope
Consider surcharge loads, drainage patterns, and excess soil issues.
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Drainage Management
Prevent water buildup behind the wall to avoid pressure surges and instability.
Key structural considerations
Several Key structural must be considered when designing or building a retaining wall, including
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Foundation Strength
A strong foundation is essential to handle the pressure exerted by the soil. Failing to assess trench stability can lead to collapse and resource loss.
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Lateral Earth Pressure
The horizontal pressure exerted by the soil against the wall.
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Additional Loads
Surcharge loads, earthquake forces, and water pressure.
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Passive Earth Pressure
The resistance the soil offers when the wall is pushed into it, also called lateral bearing capacity.
How BHM Geotechnical Can Help
BHM Geotechnical is a geotechnical engineering and environmental firm with the expertise and resources to perform technical analysis and tackle complex challenges. We provide accurate geotechnical and environmental assessments to give clients greater clarity. Our services include:
- 2D & 3D complex modeling and analysis
- Assessment of bearing capacity
- Foundation and trench stability evaluations
- Hydraulic conductivity analysis
Looking for Geotechnical Experts?
Whether you’re working on basements, foundations or infrastructure projects, our team delivers solutions to suit your site conditions. With BHM Geotechnical, you can break new ground with confidence.Get in touch with our Sydney, Australia office to start planning your next Project!
Drop us an inquiry
Have a question or need more information? Fill out the form below, and our expert team will get back to you as soon as possible to assist with your geotechnical needs.
Have Questions? Let’s Clear Them Up
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Retaining walls are rigid walls used to support soil laterally and prevents it from sliding or eroding.
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The life expectancy of a retaining wall may vary depending on the material, soil and groundwater affecting the retaining wall.
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The amount of weight a retaining wall can support will depend on the geometry and weight of the retaining wall itself.
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Retaining walls are designed and used to prevent soil erosion, create a ‘tiered’ garden, divert water, and many more applications.
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This is highly recommended as professionals will have a better understanding of the geometry and type of retaining wall required to withstand the loads for your property.
