5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes, particularly in commercial projects where landscape stability is crucial. While retaining walls are designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion, if not properly constructed, they can fail—leading to costly repairs or even dangerous collapses.
In our experience as a commercial concrete business, we’ve seen firsthand how avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve the longevity and performance of retaining walls. In this blog, we’ll go over five common mistakes to avoid when building retaining walls and how to ensure your project is built to last.
- Poor Foundation Preparation
A solid foundation is the most critical aspect of building a retaining wall. Without a proper foundation, the wall is likely to shift, settle, or collapse over time. The soil beneath the wall must be properly compacted and prepared to handle the load, and depending on the height of the wall, a layer of crushed stone or concrete may be required to form a stable base.
Solution: Start with a deep, well-compacted base of gravel or concrete. Ensure the foundation is level and capable of supporting the weight of the wall. For taller retaining walls, hiring an engineer to assess the foundation needs can save money and stress in the long run.
- Inadequate Drainage System
Improper drainage is one of the most common causes of retaining wall failure. When water builds up behind a retaining wall, the added weight from water pressure can lead to bulging or collapse. Failing to install an adequate drainage system to direct water away from the wall can shorten the wall’s lifespan.
Solution: Incorporate weep holes or drainage pipes behind the wall to allow water to escape. Additionally, use a well-graded drainage aggregate behind the wall to help water filter through the soil. This simple step can prevent a lot of damage in the future.
- Using the Wrong Materials
Not all retaining walls are created equal, and neither are the materials used to build them. Some builders opt for cheaper or incorrect materials, thinking they will save money in the short term. However, using subpar materials often leads to quicker deterioration or a structurally unsound wall.
Solution: Stick with high-quality, durable materials that are designed for the specific type of retaining wall you’re building. Concrete is one of the best options for commercial retaining walls due to its strength, durability, and ability to withstand environmental stressors.
- Skipping Reinforcement
Depending on the height and purpose of the retaining wall, reinforcement may be necessary to ensure the structure can withstand the pressure it’s holding back. Skipping this step can result in bowing, cracking, or eventual collapse.
Solution: Use appropriate reinforcements like rebar or geogrid when necessary. Taller or load-bearing walls often require these reinforcements to distribute pressure evenly across the structure and prevent failure.
- Failing to Consult an Engineer for Large Projects
For commercial projects or walls over a certain height, it’s crucial to involve a structural engineer. Many retaining wall failures occur because the wall wasn’t properly designed to handle the specific load and environmental conditions. Building codes often require an engineer’s approval for walls over a certain height, and skipping this step can lead to legal and financial issues.
Solution: Always consult an engineer for large or complex retaining wall projects. They can ensure the wall is designed to handle the load and soil conditions, which minimizes the risk of failure and maximizes safety and durability.
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