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Retaining Walls and How to Build Them

Retaining Walls Offer Solutions to Landscaping Problems

by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

Retaining Walls have been used for centuries to stabilize steep slopes,  to improve the appearance and  utilization of limited areas  in both urban and agricultural settings,  and to improve safety.  Roadways are stabilized, lawns are made usable, and areas of   stunning beauty can be created in the process.   Areas where access was  previously difficult or limited can be improved significantly  with  the simple construction of one or more retaining walls.  

Consider constructing a retaining wall  using naturally available materials  such as natural stone or timbers to increase  the curb appeal of your property.  Modern technology , materials  and design allow other attractive options in both material and  wall design  for more difficult projects.  

Construction of a retaining wall requires planning, thought, and work, but a  correctly built  retaining wall using appropriate materials in the right application may be just the project your property needs.

Would you prefer a home that that has inaccessible, steep, eroded slopes covered with unruly vegetation, or choose a well-manicured property with an attractively-built retaining wall ?

WHY DO I NEED a RETAINING WALL?

by  Raymond Alexander Kukkee

 

Most homeowners will quickly recognize why a retaining wall could be a beneficial project if ANY of the  following conditions apply:

      

  • A piece of your lawn is so steep it has been allowed to grow wild and is used for daring sports activities by all of the neighbours
  • Your yard is unattractive with irregular, rough,  steep slopes, covered with unruly vegetation, weeds, untrimmed trees and long grass.   Have  retaining walls been used to solve similar problem slopes on adjacent properties successfully ?
  • Parts of your lawn are difficult or impossible to maintain.  It is awkward, challenging, and too steep to mow grass safely.   A retaining wall will make it easier to maintain those problem areas.
  • You have no reasonable access to other parts of your property because of a steep, rough  slope.
  • The severity of slope is  extreme.  A safety issue --for both  work and play.  A retaining wall can make the area more user-friendly and much safer.
  • Areas are totally unusable because of unstable ground,  ground  slump or slippage, water runoff  and soil erosion.   A retaining wall can be used to correct many problems.
    •   
       If any of those conditions describe your property,
  • Retaining walls  placed correctly  can be  attractive, functional, and offer  better  access and full utilization of the total area available to you whether it be a front, side, or back yard.
  • You  can build a retaining wall  using economical  materials or  natural materials commonly available in your  location.

  • Retaining Walls  Can Offer :

                                             *  Improved Aesthetics and Appearance

                                             *  Increased Safety with steep slopes eliminated

                                             *  Better Utilization of Space

                                             *  Improved ground Stability

                                             *  Increased Property Value

 

 The bottom line:  

 A retaining wall may  economically increase the  limited  safe area  accessible to the homeowner  for  lawn and garden, entertainment or  play.

*A Casual Hint:    

Using  terracing  with the installation of one or more low retaining walls  is often an  ideal solution  that can create  attractive special purpose areas in between.

 

 

 

Various Methods of Building Retaining Walls are Available

In a modern era  that demands both aesthetics and utility, retaining walls must be attractive, functional  and reasonable in cost to build.  Here are several methods you can choose from   to build a retaining wall that will meet your requirements, and can be built within your budget.  Materials are virtually unlimited in choice.  Some are even free.

How to Build Retaining Walls with Materials from Rocks to Railway Ties

Select  the building method  that is right for your application...

  • One of the most common materials for retaining walls is also one of the least expensive. Both new and used railway ties are commonly available across North America, the latter becoming available as national and private railways replace thousands of ties annually or substitute modern concrete ties.
  • Cinder blocks are tough, relatively light weight, and therefore can be easier to use than concrete blocks. Filling the hollows with ballast rock can provide additional weight if required in this application.
  • Pressure-treated landscaping timber is affordable and a good choice, being commonly available, light and easy to work with. Landscaping timbers are attractive and considered to be cleaner environmentally than creosoted railway timber.
  • A 'dry' or 'mortarless' retaining wall is assembled without using cement mortar, and is therefore free of the challenge of working with mortar or the expense of hiring a bricklayer. Because the mortar-free wall is also more flexible, it is unnecessary to pour a rigid concrete foundation.
  • A Geogrid reinforced retaining wall may be required where the ground is "slipping" or unstable. The application and inclusion of Geogrid fabric, when used correctly, not only stabilizes the slope but provides an anchor for the retaining wall itself in the process. Geogrid reinforcing is an excellent choice where where soil is loose and unstable.
  • If you need a retaining wall, why not build it of dry stone and turn it into an eye-catching, fabulous rock garden feature that provides much additional curb appeal ? This is how to do it.

Now it's time to admire the finished job!

SAFETY ISSUES Encountered in building Retaining Walls

by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

Safety is always a concern on any construction site.  Construction of retaining walls is not an exception, even though it may be a small project.  Always be careful and work safely !  Personal liability may be involved.

On YOUR retaining wall construction Zone:

  • Trenches : dug  too deeply can collapse without warning, causing physical harm or even fatalities. Take  appropriate safety measures, cutting trench sides back as recommended.
  • There is always danger where excavators, backhoes or other heavy equipment is in use. Provide barriers for onlookers and always be aware!
  • Keep children out of harm's way  at all times.   Provide a safe  and secure "viewing" area for  curious youngsters.
  • Avoid damaging existing infrastructure and buried Services : . Services  such as gas lines, power lines or communication lines can easily be damaged and  result in dangerous situations.  Verify locations of all services prior to construction. Local utilities will identify and flag locations of concern.
  • Materials Handling:  Wet concrete, stone, railway ties, and timbers are heavy. Use lifting devices and ensure you have adequate help where heavy lifting is involved.
  • Safety Gear :  Always wear safety footwear, gloves, and protective clothing.  Stone, concrete, and timbers are very heavy.  Stack building materials in safe, level areas prior to use.  Be aware that  cuts and slivers of wood from  handling creosoted railway ties can cause slow-healing wounds because of the chemical nature of creosote.  
  • Slopes are slippery when wet, whether grass, mud, or gravel. Extra caution is warranted.
  • Work Safely !

Photo Gallery Courtesy of WLK Photography

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Mortared Retaining Wall

RETAINING WALLS UNDER STRESS

If built improperly, retaining walls  will begin to show

signs of stress.   Poorly built walls with inadequate

footings will settle in soft soil conditions.

Lateral soil pressure  may   cause a wall to crack at

weak points.  In time,  the wall will  lean  out,  break,

and eventually  collapse.

Photographs were  taken and supplied by Jim Bessey.


Structural Defects

Structural Defect  from  Lateral Ground Pressure

                                                          photo by Jim Bessey

Wall Deformation

Wall  Deformed by Lateral Ground Pressure

Deformation from lateral pressure

Note the top block course  was filled,  but  not capped.

                                                          photos by Jim Bessey                                                

Water Staining

Water staining  of this concrete wall indicates the  future

potential  for damage  caused  by  inadequate or no

drainage.   Note the  early cracks developing.

                                                                    photo by Jim Bessey

 

Damage to Retaining Wall Structures  can be caused by :

  • Lateral (sideways)  soil pressure
  • Vertical pressure (Weight of the wall itself)
  • Stress induced by incorrect construction
  • Vibration (street traffic, seismic activity)
  • Soil instability and creep
  • Insufficient anchors or "deadmen"
  • Friable, crumbling soils
  • Water pressure
  • Poor or non-existent drainage
  • Frost Heaving:  Inadequate footing depth
  • Water penetration,  freeze-thaw cycles

 

         Damage from Freeze/Thawing 


                                                                   photo  by  r.a.kukkee

Water collects in the cavities of concrete blocks on walls

that are left uncapped. On this  retaining wall  expanding

ice split the facing  off  of the  concrete blocks.


 

 

                                         

 

 

                                            

 

 

 

Got that new retaining wall finished? RELAX! Go CAMPING with Jim Bessey

              Visit  JUST CAMPING OUT  with Jim Bessey at

                          http:// dzynezone.blogspot.com/

How to Build Retaining Walls with Cinder Block or Concrete Block

by Jim Bessey

There was a time when cinder block retaining walls were all the rage. That was during post-war American building boom fifty years ago. Times have changed, and now these utilitarian walls more typicall...More>
  Write NowWrite

by Janette Peel

You can hold back the earth with attractive and easy to build structures. Simple retaining walls, without mortar and footings, can be as beautiful as they are functional in the landscape. What is ...More>
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by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

Build a Dry-stone Retaining Wall Natural dry-stone retaining walls have a special appeal to the environment and h...More>
  Write NowWrite

Common Building Materials used for Retaining Walls

by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

Materials used in the construction of retaining walls are highly variable by location, cost, and availability.  Consider  these common materials, both natural and manufactured solutions,  for your  retaining wall application:

 

  • Timbers :  Squared timbers  manufactured and available in various sizes, 4x4,  6x6", 6x8,  8x8"  and larger. Usually pressure-treated for long life and commonly available.
  • Logs:   Natural logs can be used for a natural rural or western appearance,  but should be cedar or another rot-resistent variety of wood. Logs may be peeled and treated to prevent deterioration from rot and insects.
  • Railway Ties:  May be new or used.  Railway timbers are  creosoted for long life.
  • Switch Ties:    Creosoted timbers that are  railway-related,  but are  longer lengths. Offered in 10', 12', 14' and 16' lengths
  • Concrete Block:  May be typical, plain building block or custom shaped, coloured and textured cement blocks
  • Cinder Block:   Block cast from cinder, lighter than concrete block.
  • Artificial Stone:  Look-a-like "Stones" that have been cast in random shapes to imitate natural stones
  • Natural Stone:  Stone that occurs naturally in the environment. Stone used for retaining walls is usually limestone, a sedimentary or any other rock type that is easily split into  flattened pieces. May be dry-laid or  of mortared construction.
  • Brick:    May be  burned clay brick or cement.  Clay brick is subject to moisture and is therefore  less weather resistant and less durable than cement brick
  • Ballasted Concrete Blocks:  Are specially designed,  may be interlocking,  but are hollow, lighter, and may be  filled with crushed rock or coarse gravel for ballast.
  • Cast concrete:  Used by building a form as desired and pouring concrete. May be reinforced with steel.
  • Wire Mesh and Ballast Rock:   Used along highways where ground stability is problematic. Considered to be the least attractive option for the homeowner.

Retaining Walls of Winsted, CT.

The following photograhs of retaining walls

located  in Winsted, Connecticut  were 

taken and supplied by :   John Carter

                           

Retaining Walls and Unique Architecture

Quarried Stone

A Capped Fieldstone Wall

Natural Stone

A  retaining wall  that will eventually collapse

Quarried stone

      All  photos by  John Carter,  Winsted, CT.

 

Retaining Walls: The Miniature Version

Miniature Retaining Walls  can be used for

  • Flower beds
  • Landscaping features
  • Gardening beds
  • Segregation of special use areas

Comments (1 to 8 of 8)

Jim Bessey
Nov 16, 09 at 10:43 PM
Your latest efforts are fantastic, Raymond. Very impressed with your analysis of those "walls under stress" pictures. Glad you could use them. 5 Stars, for sure!
W. Diane Van Zwol
Nov 15, 09 at 04:02 PM
Hey Ray, how about adding an article about the Great Wall of China! 100% WOW!
W. Diane Van Zwol
Nov 14, 09 at 08:03 PM
Your zone is being featured on the Baby Boomer zone! Thought you might like to know. Have a great day!
Jim Bessey
Oct 21, 09 at 08:53 PM
OUTSTANDING new batch of pictures, Raymond. Love the look, and great information start to finish.
Raymond Alexander Kukkee
Oct 20, 09 at 12:53 PM
"Retaining walls of the mind" do exist at times....Thanks, Ray!
Ray Burke
Oct 20, 09 at 10:51 AM
Hey Raymond, I thought maybe there was a philosophical meaning behind retaining walls of the mind, but I guess not...Oh, well -well done.
Raymond Alexander Kukkee
Aug 29, 09 at 09:28 PM
Thanks, Jim!
Jim Bessey
Aug 29, 09 at 07:14 PM
This is a fine resource for anyone looking into using retaining walls to improve their landscaping. Good selection of articles, great tips and definitions, and some very helpful pictures. Well done, top to bottom, Raymond!

Zone Manager

Helium member since Nov 06, 07
Number of Zones: 1

Natural stone Retaining Wall

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    Retaining Wall Terminology

    by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

     

    • Retaining Wall:   Any structural wall that is installed to prevent soil from slipping downhill,  or for aesthetic purposes to allow fill to be placed to create usable level areas where a slope existed naturally.
    • Free-draining Backfill:   Clean, uniformly-sized gravel or crushed rock that water will pass through quickly to promote drainage.
    • Slope:   Any surface area that is not level.  Slope can be measured with a clinometer or a surveyor's level  and is expressed as a percentage  ie.  a 2 % slope,    or in degrees,  as in a "10 degree slope"
    • Sleeper:  A timber buried  deeply, uphill and at right angles to the retaining wall, often connected to a retaining wall directly or by a cable to provide stability to the wall.  Also called deadmen or deadman timbers.
    • Deadmen timbers:  are timbers buried at right angles to the retaining wall.  Deadmen may be attached directly to the wall by building one end into a lower course,  or attached from a distance using a galvanized cable. Also called "sleepers".
    • Switch timber:   A long, creosoted timber ordinarily used in constructing switching systems in a rail yard  but increasingly adapted  to landscaping  purposes including retaining walls.
    • Railway ties:  Short, heavy creosoted timbers used to construct railway tracks.
    • Foundation:  A poured concrete base or compacted crushed rock located and built to carry the weight of a retaining wall or other structure.  A concrete foundation may be reinforced with 'reinforcing rod'.
    • Reinforcing Rod:   Special steel rod that is included in poured concrete structures to provide tensile strength.
    • Tensile strength:  Resistance to tension. Required at the bottom of a structure bearing much weight
    • Compressive strength:  Resistance to weight by compression.
    • Ballast:  Crushed rock, coarse gravel  or stone used as a filler  for weight in hollow structures.
    • Geogrid Fabric:   A fibreglas, plastic, or metallic woven mesh, used to stabilize loose ground. 

    Hints for Homeowners Considering Construction of Retaining Walls

    by  Raymond Alexander Kukkee

    Effective planning is important for the success of any construction project, and retaining walls are not an exception.  Consider  these ideas  when planning construction of a retaining wall on your property.

    • Attractively built retaining walls can increase the value of your property
    • Retaining walls can prevent the unnecessary  expense for the importation of new topsoil to repair damage caused by erosion and soil slippage
    • Two  separate retaining walls  lower in height may actually be more effective,  more attractive and be safer than one higher wall --and create more useful space in the process.  An additional access stairway between the two walls may be an option to consider.
    • If an exceptionally high retaining wall is required or extremely unstable ground conditions are suspected,  consider an engineered solution for your specific site conditions for safety and a more successful outcome.
    • For any  lower  stone, cement, or brick retaining wall structure that is not rigidly mortared,  a crushed rock foundation is usually adequate and easily installed.
    • Depending upon the manufacturer, some interlocking, stacking blocks may need additional ballast for weight.
    • For lower walls, simple "weep holes"  placed in the wall may suffice for drainage, but may also eventually stain the face of the wall, depending upon the mineral content of the water in your locality.
    • Plan drainage on the uphill side of the wall with free-draining granular material to prevent water damage to the wall, or even total destruction of the wall in  wet conditions or very heavy rainfall areas.  If water runoff is a serious and constant problem , consider installing a French drain where the water originates higher up the slope.
    • Verify lot line clearance and municipal bylaws prior to beginning any construction. There may be height restrictions applicable.
    • If everyone on your block already has  timber retaining walls,  for appearance, do consider the same type to  help maintain and promote good neighbour relations


    Rough Ground that would Benefit from the Installation of a Retaining Wall

    ERROR DISPLAYING BLOCK

    Mortared Retaining Wall Built with Blocks of Cement Rubble

    Is Bad Weather causing Problems and Delays?

    by Raymond Alexander Kukkee

    Black clouds are gathering and the rainstorm of the century is heading your way. You have just finished excavating 80 feet of trenching  3' deep to install a footing for your retaining wall.  You know you're in trouble as the first raindrops hit and rivers of muddy water start running down the slope into the trench ... if only you had known.


      Always  be informed and consider the weather before starting your project, especially if  extensive excavations  are involved and  heavy rainfall is expected.  A heavy downpour in  some soil conditions can collapse or even completely fill in a  new excavation for  footings.   A judicious delay  of a day or even a week for more favorable weather can be a wise decision and save much duplication of work and additional expense.  Choosing the right timing for a big  project can be tricky! Bad Weather Delaying your Project? 

      Remember:    "Weather is not an exact science",  so  if bad weather is expected, spend time planning instead!  Tomorrow is always another day!  

      Your Opinion is Important

      Which material is the most Attractive for the Construction of Retaining Walls?
      Wire netting with ballast
      Cinder Block
      Dimensioned Pressure-Treated Timbers
      Railway Ties (Creosoted)
      Natural stone, dry-laid
      Cast Concrete
      Natural rock
      Brick (mortared)
      Concrete block (includes designed, Interlocking, Shaped, Coloured and Textured)
      Log

      Cast Concrete Retaining Walls - A Permanent Solution

      On curbside sites where a permanent and durable retaining wall is required, a cast concrete retaining wall may be an ideal solution. 

      Mortared Retaining Walls

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