Tips to Avoid Common Retaining Wall Mistakes

Tips to Avoid Common Retaining Wall Mistakes
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Retaining walls can transform sloped areas into usable space. However, retaining wall mistakes are common, leading to issues like leaning walls, cracks, and drainage problems. My guide explores these mistakes so you can build a retaining wall right the first time.

Common Retaining Wall Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Poor Drainage: The Silent Killer

Water buildup behind a retaining wall creates hydrostatic pressure. This pressure can cause bulging, cracking, or even collapse.

The pressure increases with water depth, making proper drainage crucial. Incorporate drainage solutions like weep holes, gravel backfill, and perforated pipes.

Installing perforated pipes helps water flow freely and prevents pressure buildup.

2. Weak Foundations: A Recipe for Disaster

A solid base is crucial for any retaining wall. A compacted gravel base and a strong footer are essential, especially in sloped areas.

Shifting soil or the wrong type of material can cause wall failure. Calculate a deep enough excavation based on slope, frost depth, and local building codes.

2. Weak Foundations A Recipe for Disaster

3. Incorrect Material Choice: Don’t Cut Corners

Choosing the wrong materials is a common mistake. Consider the wall’s height, local weather conditions, and surrounding soil type when selecting materials.

Concrete blocks, natural stone, and treated lumber each have pros and cons. For example, wood may not be suitable for wet climates, while a concrete wall may need extra reinforcement. The right material retaining walls helps with long-term durability.

4. Ignoring Local Building Codes: Don’t Invite Trouble

Always check your local building codes and obtain necessary permits. Ignoring codes can lead to fines or mandatory reconstruction.

Building codes ensure safety and structural integrity. They outline requirements for height, drainage, and setbacks, crucial aspects for any retaining wall structure. Contact your local authorities or a professional engineer for guidance.

5. Improper Backfill: The Unsung Hero

Proper backfilling supports the wall and improves drainage. Use free-draining gravel like crushed stone, and compact it in layers to prevent settling. This helps ensure proper water flow and prevents erosion.

Avoiding these issues related to base material will prevent future retaining wall failures.

6. Underestimating Wall Height: Playing with Fire

An insufficient wall height won’t retain soil effectively. This can lead to erosion and other problems.

Confirm the height corresponds with the retained soil volume. A retaining wall requires accurate height calculations to function correctly.

7. Neglecting Maintenance: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

Regular inspection and cleaning are important for maintaining a retaining wall that’s structurally sound. Repairing cracks promptly prevents larger problems.

Regular retaining wall repair extends the wall’s lifespan. Catching these issues early on prevents costly repairs in the long run.

Avoiding Challenges When Building Retaining Walls

Building a retaining wall involves many challenges, from drainage to soil conditions. By understanding these potential retaining wall mistakes and following best practices, your retaining wall will remain strong for many years. Remember, Garland Landscape is available for any questions or assistance.

In addition to Gig Harbor, we also provide landscaping services to homeowners and businesses in Port Orchard, Tacoma, Firecrest and University City in Washington. Contact us today for your free estimate!

FAQs about retaining wall mistakes

Poor drainage is the most common cause of retaining wall failures. Excess water pressure weakens the wall structure and eventually causes collapse.

The five failure modes are sliding, overturning, bearing capacity failure, base key failure, and structural failure. Consulting with a professional engineer will help assess these risks before construction.

A general guideline is that a freestanding retaining wall block should be at least one-sixth as wide as its height above ground. This ensures adequate support against the retained soil.

Numerous online retaining wall guides offer specific plans and information. Always consider your specific site conditions and soil type when planning your project.

Retaining wall failures include tilting, bulging, cracking, or complete collapse. Such issues highlight the importance of proper construction.

Chris Garland
Chris Garland

As the owner of Garland Landscape, Chris brings over 19 years of experience in landscaping and hardscaping to every project.