Dating back to ancient Egypt, retaining walls were used to control the force and power of the river Nile. Based around the same idea, these walls are now used across different commercial and residential environments for different purposes.
Here’s all you need to know about retaining walls and their applications:
What Are Retaining Walls?
A retaining wall is a rigid structure constructed and designed to withstand or “retain” the pressure of soil. It works by providing additional lateral support and preventing instances of soil erosion. However, these walls can differ depending on the specific needs and purposes. They can range from a minor landscape wall that surrounds a garden to an enormous soil-retaining project on a highway.
Types Of Retaining Walls
There are various types of retaining walls, each suited for its purposes. These are:
1. Gravity Walls: These walls use their weight and force to resist the earth’s pressure. Made with mortar-less stone and concrete, they’re fixed in one place and can range up to 10 feet tall.
2. Cantilevered Walls: Built using reinforced concrete, these walls are made of a thin base slab and stem. Unlike gravity walls, cantilevered walls use a lesser amount of concrete, but their designing requires careful consideration.
3. Sheet Pile Walls: These retaining walls are thinner as compared to other walls. It’s typically used for waterfront structures, protection of riverbanks, or building cofferdams.
4. Bored Pile Walls: Created using “bored piles,” these walls are built by burrowing away excess soil. They’re easy to install in restricted places and can be used for a range of wall thicknesses.
5. Anchored Walls: These walls are pinned using cables anchored in the soil or rocks. Unlike the options above, these specialized walls require a qualified geotechnical engineer to install them.
Benefits Of Retaining Walls
· Improves The Curb Appeal Of Your Property
Retaining walls can be an aesthetically appealing feature if you choose the right materials. Adding some lighting plans, and landscape will make this a truly stunning sight. These walls can be built along the corridor and driveway to add definition to your space.
· Leveled Ground
Retaining walls turn a slope into a flat, leveled ground. This increases the availability of the land for the creation of other structures, such as a parking lot, or another building.
· Increased Accessibility
Similarly, retaining walls can also create a slope for ramps, providing easy access for wheelchairs or trolleys.
· Improves Site Drainage
Retaining walls can direct water on your property; they’re used to address slope issues near bodies of water.
How Can We Help?
If you’re looking for a wall retaining or repair service in the greater part of Boston, AMN Masonry has you covered! We have over a decade of experience in repairing and replacing retaining walls to improve the safety and appearance of your commercial area. We also offer commercial and historic restoration services. Get in touch with us for a free quote today!