Construction of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are important to protect against soil movement by slowing the movement of fragmented soils. These walls help to ensure safety and stability, allowing the creation of different levels of the landscape. The process of building retaining walls includes several main steps. First, the site must be properly prepared, cleaned of germs, plants and other natural materials. Next, the foundation is built, which will later correspond to the dimensions of the wall. If we are talking about a long-lasting, durable retaining wall, then it must be installed on extensive, complex foundations to account for every possible angle.

Construction projects should consider not only geological conditions, but also how to reduce the effects of natural disasters, accidents and other unforeseen situations.

Types of retaining walls

Retaining walls can be of different types, depending on the materials used, dimensions and purpose. The difference is also due to the fact that what kind of structure is required by the occurring pressures. As a rule, there are three main types: stone, concrete and metal retaining walls.

Stone retaining walls. Perhaps the oldest and most frequently used material in retaining wall construction technologies was stone. Today, however, it has been equipped with modern solutions using metal accessories or reinforced concrete.

Concrete retaining walls. These walls perform mainly a protective function, especially in highland areas, where great stability is needed.

Metal retaining walls. Metal retaining walls are effective when we want to protect relatively small areas, because metal allows building lighter and more flexible structures.