Types Of Reinforced Concrete Retaining Walls And Their Construction

Business

  • Author Charles Parnell
  • Published April 23, 2023
  • Word count 367

Reinforced concrete retaining walls are commonly used to hold back soil and prevent erosion in areas with slopes or uneven ground. There are several types of reinforced concrete retaining walls, each with their own advantages and construction methods. Here are some of the most common types:

Gravity Retaining Walls: These walls rely on their own weight and the weight of the soil behind them to resist the forces of the earth. They are typically constructed with mass concrete and are suitable for heights up to 3 meters.

Cantilever Retaining Walls: These walls use a thin stem and a base slab to support the soil behind them. The stem is designed to withstand bending moments, and the base slab provides stability. They are suitable for heights up to 10 meters.

Counterfort Retaining Walls: These walls are similar to cantilever walls, but they have additional support provided by vertical concrete webs called counterforts. They are suitable for heights up to 25 meters.

Buttressed Retaining Walls: These walls have a series of counterforts on the back side of the wall, providing additional support to the wall. They are suitable for heights over 25 meters.

The construction process for reinforced concrete retaining walls typically involves the following steps:

Excavation: The area where the retaining wall will be built must be excavated to the proper depth and width to accommodate the wall.

Footings: The footings are poured to provide a solid base for the wall to rest on.

Stem and Slab: The stem and slab of the retaining wall are constructed using reinforced concrete.

Reinforcement: Steel bars are installed in the stem and slab to provide additional strength.

Drainage: Drainage systems are installed to prevent water buildup behind the wall, which can cause pressure and damage.

Backfilling: The area behind the wall is backfilled with soil and compacted in layers to ensure stability.

Finish: The retaining wall is finished with a facing material, such as stone, brick, or stucco, to enhance its appearance and protect it from the elements.

It's important to note that the construction process can vary depending on the specific type of retaining wall being built and the soil conditions at the site. Consulting with a professional engineer or contractor is highly recommended.

Charles Parnell works in the marketing department for Unbrako Concete. They produce prestressed concrete walling for agricultural and industrial sector.

http://www.concretewalling.co.uk

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