Top 4 reasons for Retaining Wall failure

Importance of Retaining Wall

When most people think of retaining walls, they think of landscaping. But these walls are more than just a pretty face for your home; they are functional, too. Retaining walls are built to hold back soil, preventing erosion and landslides. They can be made from a variety of materials, including stone, concrete, brick, and wood. While most retaining walls are built for function, they can also enhance the look of your home. Retaining walls can add character and curb appeal to any home.

There are several reasons for retaining wall failure, but the most common are as follows:

1- Poorly Designed

A poorly designed retaining wall is one of the major reasons why it fails. Not taking into account soil type, water table, and other factors can lead to a retaining wall that does not stand up to the elements. Here are some tips to help you design a retaining wall that will last.

The first thing to consider is the soil type. Different soils have different load-bearing capacities. If you are not sure what type of soil you have, you can have a soil test done or discuss with your contractor who is going to build the retaining wall.

The second important thing to consider is the water table. If the water table is high, it can put pressure on the retaining wall foundation and cause it to collapse. Make sure you know the height of the water table before you start designing your retaining wall.

You also need to consider the type of foundation you are going to use. The foundation is what supports the weight of the retaining wall. There are two types of foundations: deep and shallow. Shallow foundations are less expensive, as they can be built in less than one foot of depth, but they are not as strong. Deep foundations are more expensive, requiring a minimum depth of 10 feet, but they are more durable and last longer.

2- Poorly Constructed

Unfortunately, many retaining walls are poorly constructed, which can lead to serious problems.

One of the most common issues is poor foundation. The foundation is what supports the entire structure, and if it is not properly built or prepared, the weight of the wall can cause it to sink or collapse. Signs of danger in a retaining wall include cracks or leaning, both of which indicate a problem with the foundation.

Poor drainage can also damage your retaining wall. If water does not drain properly from the wall, it can put a lot of pressure on the wall, causing it to collapse. Water can seep into the soil behind the wall and cause it to become saturated, leading to several issues:

• The soil behind the wall can become so saturated that it pushes against the wall, causing it to lean or even collapse.
• Water can seep into cracks in the wall, causing concrete or other materials to break down.
• The weight of water-saturated soil can cause the wall to settle, leading to cracks and further damage.

If you suspect your retaining wall is not draining properly or notice cracks due to foundation issues, it is important to have it checked by a masonry contractor.

3- Maintenance

A lack of regular maintenance is one of the main reasons retaining walls fail. One of the most important things you can do to maintain your retaining wall is to perform regular inspections. Inspect your wall at least once a year to look for any cracks, chips, or other damage. If you notice any damage, repair it immediately to prevent further deterioration.

Routine maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning the wall and removing any debris that could potentially cause damage.
• Inspecting the wall’s surface for any cracks or damage that could allow water to enter the structure.
• Sealing concrete walls every few years to protect them from the elements.
• Keeping weeds under control to prevent the wall from settling and cracking.

4- Climate

Climate can be another contributing factor in retaining wall failure. Retaining walls are designed to hold back soil, water, and other materials, but extreme weather conditions can overload them, leading to failure.

For example, heavy rains can cause the soil behind the wall to become saturated and put pressure on the wall, leading to cracking, bowing, or even collapse. Strong winds can also put pressure on the wall, causing it to lean or collapse. Freeze-thaw cycles can shift the soil and add pressure to the retaining wall. This is why it is so important to make sure your retaining wall is built properly and regularly inspected and maintained.

Can you avoid damage from extreme weather? Yes, you can:

Choose the Right Type of Retaining Wall

Make sure you choose the right type of retaining wall for your climate. Different types of retaining walls have unique advantages and disadvantages. It is important to research and select the retaining wall type that works best for your climate.

Regular Repair

Regularly inspect your retaining wall for signs of wear or damage. If you observe any damage, have it repaired immediately. By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent your retaining wall from failing due to extreme weather conditions.