When beginning retaining wall construction, the first step is to dig a trench approximately 9 inches deep and 20 inches wide. This trench should be completely level and free of any utility lines. If the wall is going uphill, you’ll need to build steps in the trench to keep the wall blocks level. Once the trench is dug, backfill the base with approved soils. This backfill will act as a filter, removing fine particles from the soil. You can then add a layer of gravel to the trench, and then sprinkle the top with sand.
Reinforced concrete cantilever retaining walls are suitable for heights of about 7 meters. They have a vertical stem monolithic with the base, and are often constructed with a slender section. The steel reinforcement in the stem resists tensile stresses that would otherwise cause the wall to buckle. The walls may also have a small backward batter of about 1 in 50.
There are other types of retaining walls, including cast-in-place and mortared ones. These can be constructed using different materials and can add style and texture to the landscape. However, they can also be expensive to build and install. Moreover, they can’t be used for very steep slopes.
There are several factors that you should consider before retaining wall construction, including the type of system you’ll be using, how you’ll contract, and what kind of ground conditions you’ll encounter. You’ll need to consider all these factors during the design phase. A good engineer can help you make a decision based on the best design for your property. If you’re not sure what’s best for your property, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice before hiring a contractor.
If you’re planning to build a retaining wall with bricks, you’ll need to ensure that the bricks you use are durable and sturdy. You can choose to use a single layer of bricks or another material for your retaining wall if you’re working on a tight budget. Another option is to build the wall with poured concrete. This method is more affordable than brick or stone, but it requires a high degree of skill to get it right. Some risks of poured concrete walls include cracking and bulging. However, this method is a great option if you want to build a unique retaining wall for your yard.
Retaining walls have several benefits – they help prevent erosion, create usable beds out of steep terrain, and provide decorative landscaping features. They may be standalone structures or part of larger construction projects. When building a retaining wall, check with your local council for planning permission requirements. If the wall is taller than two metres, you’ll need to seek building regulation approval. If the retaining wall is freestanding, you may not need to seek permission, but make sure it’s structurally sound to avoid collapse.
After obtaining a permit, you should schedule an inspection to have your retaining wall built. This will ensure that the wall complies with the state and city building codes and is built to the building plans. Depending on the height of your retaining wall, you may also need the services of a structural engineer.