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Retaining Wall Fails: 10 Mistakes You Should Never Make Tuesday, May 30th, 8:00 AM
10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Retaining Walls

Australia - May 30, 2023 / JBS Excavation and Retaining Walls /

10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Retaining Walls

Retaining Walls

Building retaining walls is a crucial aspect of landscaping and construction projects, as they provide stability to slopes and support for soil. However, constructing these walls requires expertise and knowledge to avoid common mistakes that can lead to costly repairs or even structural failure.

Retaining Walls - Not As Simple As It Seems

Retaining walls are essential structures that provide support to sloping landscapes, prevent soil erosion, and create usable land for buildings. However, constructing a retaining wall is not simple and requires specialized knowledge to avoid mistakes that could result in failure or necessitate expensive repairs down the line. In this blog post by JBS Excavations and Retaining Walls, experts with over 20 years of experience in the industry, we will discuss ten common mistakes people make when building retaining walls.

  • Incorrect design leading to unstable structures: A well-designed retaining wall takes into consideration factors like soil type, slope angle, drainage requirements, and load-bearing capacity. Failing to account for these elements may result in an unstable structure prone to collapse.
  • Poor material selection compromising durability: Selecting high-quality materials designed specifically for use in retaining walls such as interlocking concrete blocks or pressure-treated timber ensures the durability and longevity of your structure.
  • Insufficient drainage causing structural damage: Proper drainage is vital in preventing water buildup behind the wall which can cause hydrostatic pressure leading to structural damage or even collapse of the entire system.
  • Lack of reinforcement for taller walls: Reinforcement is necessary when dealing with taller walls (over four feet) subjecting them under greater lateral earth pressures; it helps distribute stress evenly across the structure ensuring stability against potential failures caused by excessive loads on individual components alone without adequate support throughout their entirety.
  • Improper construction techniques resulting in long-term issues: Cutting corners during installation might save time initially but often results in issues requiring expensive fixes later down the line. Always follow manufacturer guidelines closely to ensure optimal performance and life expectancy of the products used within the project scope.

The Importance of Proper Design for Retaining Walls

A well-designed retaining wall takes into consideration factors like soil type, slope angle, drainage requirements, and load-bearing capacity. Failing to account for these elements may result in an unstable structure prone to collapse.

  • Slope Analysis: By assessing the existing landscape features such as gradients, soil types, vegetation cover, and water flow patterns; experts at JBS Excavations can develop a comprehensive plan tailored specifically for your property needs.
  • Load-Bearing Capacity: Determining the appropriate load-bearing capacity is essential in designing a retaining wall capable of withstanding both vertical (dead) loads from the weight of materials used in construction along with lateral (live) loads exerted by earth pressure or other external forces acting upon it over time. - this ensures long-term durability without risking failure due to excessive stress placed on individual components alone, unsupported throughout the entirety of the system itself.
  • Drainage Requirements: Incorporating proper drainage solutions within the design not only prevents hydrostatic pressure buildup behind walls but also promotes the overall health of the surrounding environment, reducing the likelihood of issues related to excess moisture accumulation leading to mold growth and rotting organic matter present in nearby areas affected by the installation of new structures alike (source).

It is essential to design retaining walls properly to ensure their stability and longevity. Consequently, using materials of superior quality and durability is essential for the successful building of a retaining wall.

Choosing High-Quality Materials for Longevity

Selecting high-quality materials designed specifically for use in retaining walls, such as interlocking concrete blocks or pressure-treated timber, ensures the durability and longevity of your structure. Knowing the advantages and drawbacks of different materials suitable for various uses is essential to making a wise choice.

Concrete Blocks vs Poured Concrete vs Treated Timbers

  • Interlocking Concrete Blocks: These are precast units that lock together without mortar, providing a sturdy yet flexible structure. They offer easy installation and can be found in various shapes and sizes to suit any design aesthetic. For more information on this material option, visit concrete block manufacturers.
  • Poured Concrete: This type of retaining wall provides excellent strength but requires professional expertise during installation due to its weight and complexity. It may also require additional reinforcement depending on the height and load-bearing capacity needed. To learn more about poured concrete walls, check out this informative article from Family Handyman.
  • Treated Timbers: Pressure-treated wood offers a natural look while being resistant to rot, insects, and moisture damage; however, it may not be suitable for taller walls or areas with extreme weather conditions due to potential warping over time. Learn more on Retaining Wall materials here.

Drainage Solutions Preventing Hydrostatic Pressure Damage

Proper drainage is vital in preventing water buildup behind the wall, which can cause hydrostatic pressure, leading to structural damage or even the collapse of the entire system. Effective drainage solutions are essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of your retaining wall.

Types of Drainage Systems for Retaining Walls

  • Weep holes: These small openings allow water to escape from behind the wall, reducing hydrostatic pressure. Weep holes should be arranged uniformly along the length of the wall and set at an elevation that facilitates efficient drainage.
  • French drains: A French drain is a gravel-encircled perforated pipe that collects excess water and directs it away from your retaining wall. This type of drain is typically installed at the base of a retaining structure during construction. Learn more about how to build a French drain here.
  • Surface drains: Surface drains are designed to collect surface runoff before it reaches your retaining walls, helping prevent erosion and soil saturation near these structures. Installing surface drains may require additional landscaping work, but it can significantly reduce potential issues related to poor drainage.

Reinforcement Techniques for Taller Retaining Walls

Retaining walls taller than four feet are subjected to greater lateral earth pressures, making reinforcement necessary. Reinforcing the structure helps distribute stress evenly across the wall, ensuring stability against potential failures caused by excessive loads on individual components without adequate support throughout their entirety. In this section, we will explore various reinforcement techniques used by professionals like JBS Walls.

Geogrids and Soil Nails as Reinforcement Options

  • Geogrids: Geogrids are synthetic materials that interlock with soil particles to provide additional strength and stability to retaining walls. They are typically installed in layers between courses of blocks or timbers during construction, effectively creating a reinforced mass behind the wall face. For more information about geogrids and their applications in retaining wall projects, visit this comprehensive guide on geosynthetic reinforced soil technology.
  • Soil Nails: Soil nails are long steel rods driven into the ground at regular intervals along the height of a retaining wall to anchor it securely in place. This technique is particularly useful when dealing with unstable slopes or difficult excavation conditions where traditional methods may not be feasible. Learn more about soil nailing from this informative article on soil-nailing solutions for steep excavations.

When considering taller retaining walls, it is important to consider the various reinforcement techniques available to ensure a safe and secure structure. As improper construction can lead to disastrous consequences, we will now explore signs of an improperly constructed wall.

Consequences of Improper Construction Techniques

Cutting corners during the installation process might save time initially, but it often results in long-term issues that require expensive fixes later on. It is crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines closely to ensure optimal performance and life expectancy of the products used within your project scope. This segment covers the possible consequences of improper building methods that may necessitate expensive repairs or even cause breakdowns.

  • Poor compaction: Insufficient soil compaction can cause uneven settling and movement over time, leading to cracks and instability in your retaining wall. Make sure you use proper equipment like a plate compactor for compacting the base material and backfill.
  • Inadequate drainage: Failing to install an effective drainage system behind your retaining wall can result in water buildup, causing hydrostatic pressure damage or collapse. Explore various types of drainage systems suitable for different applications.
  • Lack of reinforcement: Taller walls (over four feet) require additional reinforcement such as geogrids or soil nails; neglecting this step may lead to structural failures under excessive loads. Learn more about reinforcing taller walls from experts like JBS Excavations and Retaining Walls.
  • Misaligned blocks: Properly aligning blocks ensures stability by distributing weight evenly across the structure; misaligned blocks create weak points susceptible to collapse under stress. Use a level to ensure accurate alignment during construction.

Neglecting to observe proper building practices can result in catastrophic results, such as structural breakdown and pricey fixes. Yet, employing an expert for your venture could be a more sensible option than attempting to do it yourself in the long run.

Why DIY Projects Can Be More Costly Than Hiring Professionals

Many homeowners are tempted to take on retaining wall projects themselves, believing that they can save money and achieve satisfactory results. However, the reality is that DIY projects often end up being more costly than hiring professionals like JBS Excavations and Retaining Walls. There are several reasons for this:

  • Lack of expertise: Building a retaining wall requires specialized knowledge in design, material selection, drainage solutions, and construction techniques. Without this expertise, you may make mistakes that lead to expensive repairs or even complete failure of the structure.
  • Inefficient use of time: A professional team can complete a project much faster than an inexperienced homeowner. The longer the project takes to finish, the more potential for costly harm due to weather-related issues or any other unexpected difficulties.
  • Potential for injury: Construction work carries inherent risks. Inexperienced individuals may be more likely to suffer injuries during excavation or installation processes which could result in medical expenses and lost productivity.
  • Misjudging costs: Homeowners often underestimate the cost of materials and equipment needed for their DIY retaining wall project. This miscalculation leads them to spend more money than initially planned.

Doing it yourself can be more expensive than engaging pros due to the absence of expertise and know-how, as well as possible missteps that could bring about greater expenses in the future. Hence, having a strong base is essential for any building job to guarantee its endurance and steadiness in the long haul.

The Importance of a Solid Foundation

A solid, level foundation is crucial for the stability of a retaining wall. Skimping on this step can lead to uneven settling and, ultimately, failure of the structure. Investing time in base preparation pays off in terms of durability and longevity.

There are several key steps to ensure your retaining wall has a strong foundation:

  • Excavation: Begin by excavating the area where your retaining wall will be built. Remove any loose soil or debris that could compromise the integrity of your foundation.
  • Leveling: Once you have cleared away all unnecessary materials, use a compactor or hand tamper to create an even surface for your base material. This ensures that each layer sits uniformly upon one another without causing instability over time.
  • Footing Material Selection: Choose appropriate footing materials such as gravel or crushed stone, which provide both drainage and support beneath concrete blocks or treated timbers used in constructing walls themselves. - consult with professionals like JBS Excavations Retaining Walls if unsure about the best options for specific project requirements and needs (source).
  • Proper Installation: Lay down at least a six-inch-thick layer of the chosen footing material and compact it thoroughly before beginning the installation of actual components, ensuring optimal performance and life expectancy of the products used within the scope of work done.

By taking the necessary precautions and preparing a solid, stable foundation, homeowners, commercial builders, and property developers alike can significantly reduce the risk of costly repairs and failures in the future while enjoying the benefits of a well-constructed retaining wall. 

Complying with Local Building Codes & Regulations

Before beginning any construction project, it is essential to consult with the local municipality regarding necessary permits, inspections, and other applicable regulations. Failing to do so could result in fines, penalties, or even the removal of newly constructed walls at the expense of the property owner. In this section, we will look at the necessity of observing local building regulations when putting together a retaining wall.

  • Contact your local authorities: Reach out to your city or county planning department before you begin construction on a retaining wall project. They can provide valuable information about necessary permits and inspections needed throughout the process.
  • Hire a professional: Engaging an experienced company like JBS Excavations and Retaining Walls not only guarantees quality workmanship but also ensures compliance with all relevant building codes during every stage of the project.
  • Maintain proper documentation: Keep records such as permit applications, inspection reports, or engineering plans readily available should questions arise from regulatory bodies later down the line.

Incorporating Landscaping Features into Your Retaining Wall

When designing a retaining wall with aesthetics in mind, consider incorporating landscaping features like plants or decorative stones. This not only enhances its visual appeal but also helps blend it seamlessly into your outdoor space. Here are some ideas:

  • Terraced Gardens: Create a series of terraces using retaining walls to add depth and dimension to your garden area. Plant flowers or shrubs on each level for added visual interest.
  • Built-in Seating: Integrate seating areas within the wall structure by extending flat sections outward from the main body of the wall (source). This provides functional seating while maintaining a cohesive look.
  • Natural Stone Finish: Choose materials like natural stone veneer or textured concrete blocks that mimic natural rock formations for an organic appearance (source).
  • Creative Lighting Solutions: Incorporate lighting fixtures into your retaining wall design to highlight its architectural features at night or provide ambient illumination along pathways adjacent to the wall.

Conclusion

Building retaining walls can be a complex and costly project, but avoiding common mistakes can save you time and money in the long run. By ensuring proper design, material selection, drainage solutions, reinforcement techniques, construction methods, foundation preparation, and compliance with local building codes and regulations while balancing aesthetics with functionality, you can have a stable and durable retaining wall that enhances your property's beauty.

At JBS Walls, we specialize in designing and constructing retaining walls that meet your specific needs. Our team of experts has years of experience in the industry and can provide you with the best solutions for your project. We use high-quality materials and the latest techniques to ensure that your retaining wall is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

Whether you need a retaining wall for erosion control, landscaping, or any other purpose, JBS Walls has the expertise to get the job done right. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you with your next project.

Get a quote from our friendly team by emailing Brenton at info@jbswalls.com or calling 0430 508 502

Contact Information:

JBS Excavation and Retaining Walls


,
Australia

Brenton Jones
+61 430 508 502
https://www.jbswalls.com.au/

Original Source: https://www.jbswalls.com.au/10-common-mistakes-to-avoid-when-building-retaining-walls

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