All About Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are structures designed to resist lateral pressure from soil and hold it in place. They are commonly used in landscaping, civil engineering, and construction projects to create level surfaces and prevent soil erosion. Retaining walls are not only functional but can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a property. Our team at Stone Deck is here to help you figure the right choice for you.
Various types of retaining walls can be used depending on the project's specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of retaining walls:
Gravity Walls
These structures rely on their weight to resist pressure from the soil. They are typically made of concrete or masonry and are the simplest and most cost-effective type of retaining wall. They are suitable for low-height walls with a maximum height of 3-4 feet.Cantilever Walls
Cantilever walls are made of reinforced concrete and are supported by a footing. They are designed in an L-shape, with a horizontal base and a vertical wall extending upwards. They are suitable for walls with heights up to 25 feet.Counterfort Walls
All counterfort walls are like cantilever walls but have additional vertical concrete webs, known as counterforts, placed perpendicular to the wall. This extra reinforcement allows for excellent stability and support, making them suitable for walls with heights up to 40 feet.Sheet Pile Walls
Sheet pile structures are made of steel, vinyl or wood planks driven vertically into the ground. They are suitable for sites with limited space and are often used for temporary structures such as cofferdams, but they can also be used for permanent installations.Materials Used in Retaining Wall Construction
Here are some of the most common materials used in retaining wall construction:- Concrete: Concrete is one of the most common materials used in retaining walls due to its strength, durability, and versatility. Concrete blocks, precast concrete panels, and poured concrete are all popular options for retaining walls.
- Stone: Natural stone is a popular choice for retaining walls as it offers the landscape a natural and aesthetic look. These walls can be constructed using various stones, including granite, limestone, sandstone, and basalt. Stone retaining walls are stacked without any mortar or adhesive.
- Brick: Brick is another popular material used in retaining wall construction due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Mortar is used to hold the bricks together in a brick retaining wall.
- Wood: Wood retaining walls are a popular choice for residential landscaping projects as they offer a natural and rustic look. Treated lumber, such as pressure-treated pine and cedar, is commonly used in wood retaining walls.
For more information on retaining walls or any of our services, feel free to contact the experts at Stone Deck at 512-863-0057 or via this online form.
