Need A Retaining Wall On Your Property? 3 Types You Can Choose From
A retaining wall is beneficial especially if you have soil that moves downhill and causes erosion. When it comes to retaining walls, there are different types available, three of which are listed below. Depending on how tall you need the wall to be, you may be able to build it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Anchor Retaining Wall
If your retaining wall is going to be on a deep slope, an anchored wall may be needed. This type of retaining wall involves using anchors to provide support. Along with the anchors, cables are also attached to provide even more support.
If you choose this type of wall, you will need a professional to install it for you. The anchors need to be placed into the ground first and then the cables attached. A company may use hydraulic equipment to mechanically drive the anchors. The anchors are then stabilized by injecting concrete to keep them in place.
Gravity Retaining Wall
With a gravity retaining wall, you do not have to add anything extra to the wall. It stands alone and uses its mass and weight to prevent soil from moving. Because this wall needs to be heavy you can choose from a variety of materials, such as stone, bricks, and concrete blocks.
If the wall is going to be tall and wide, you will first need to dig a trench in the ground. You may also want to consider installing concrete in the trench to set the retaining wall on. This will prevent the wall from sinking into the soil over time and keep it more secure.
Sheet Piling Retaining Wall
If you do not have a lot of space for your retaining wall, a sheet piling wall will work best for you. This type of retaining wall is much thinner than standard walls and made of vinyl, wood, or steel. The material you choose is placed directly into the ground. Other support may need to be used to reinforce the wall because it is thin. For example, for very large sheet piling retaining walls, you will need to use an anchoring system.
Your soil must be soft if using this type of retaining wall as much of it has to be placed in the ground to keep the wall standing properly. This can be difficult to do if you have compacted or hard soil.
Talk with a professional that installs retaining walls to learn more, like EGE Construction.
