The Basics of Retaining Wall Construction

Segmental retaining walls (SRWs) add value to your property by increasing usable yard space, enhancing curb appeal, and preventing soil erosion. Let us assist you on the best type of wall for your property such as;

-Cast Concrete SRWs

-Tiered Walls

-Boulder Walls

-Sitting/Knee Walls

-Raised Flower Bed Walls

Click to See a Cross Section
of a Properly Built SRW

After a precise site layout plan is complete, the process begins by excavating for the foundation of the SRW. 'Organic matter' such as topsoil, sandy loam, mud, and other unsuitable soils are excavated, until a clay or dense gravel sub-soil is reached.

The soil level at which excavation stops is refereed as the 'sub-soil' or 'sub-base'. The sub-soil is then compacted.

A woven-geotextile fabric is placed ontop of the sub-soil. This fabric acts as a physical barrier, separating the sub-soil and the gravel base that will soon be installed.

The geotextile fabric plays a crucial role in preventing wall settlement, as well as reinforcing the soil.

The base of the wall is now ready for gavel.

Industry standards require a minimum 6 inches of gravel for the base of the wall and 12 inches of gravel for backfill behind the wall.

At Conway Landscapes, we install a minimum of 10 inches of gravel base and a minimum of 24 inches of gravel backfill.

The crushed gavel is compacted ensuring a strong foundation. The wall block is then laid on the gavel base. Each block is checked for level, backfilled, and compacted after every row.

The depth of base, width of backfill, and quality of compaction are the three most vital elements to ensure a successfully built SRW.

Other important aspects such as the use of drainage pipe and geo-grid are dependent on the deign, function, and engineering plans of the wall.

Experience matters in SRW construction!

The Basics of Retaining Wall Construction

Click to See a Cross Section of a Properly Built SRW

Click to See a Cross Section
of a Properly Built SRW