How to landscape around a retaining wall?
Consider using hardy shrubs, perennials, or grasses in these spaces to complement the retaining wall design. If working with a stone retaining wall or concrete blocks, these tiers provide great opportunities for functional landscapes, such as flower beds or even a vegetable garden. Like any structure, retaining walls require firm foundations for lasting integrity. Walls need proper footing or become separated from their base as the ground settles. Without robust foundations, collapse is inevitable.The five modes of failure are identified as sliding, overturning, bearing capacity, shallow shear, and deep shear failures. Factors of safety are provided for each failure mode. Two case studies of retaining wall collapses are also summarized.Drainage is one of the most important factors in ensuring the longevity and stability of a retaining wall. When water builds up behind a retaining wall with no way to escape, it increases pressure on the structure, leading to bulging, deterioration, and even collapse.Landscape fabric should be installed behind the retaining wall, not underneath it. This placement helps prevent soil migration while allowing water to pass through, reducing pressure on the wall. Proper installation involves laying the fabric against the soil side of the wall and securing it with landscape staples.
What is the lifespan of a retaining wall?
Retaining walls can last significantly longer if constructed with durable materials; for instance, well-built concrete walls may exceed 100 years, while timber walls generally range from 15 to 30 years. Therefore, material selection is crucial for longevity. The four main types of retaining walls are gravity retaining walls, cantilever retaining walls, embedded retaining walls, and reinforced soil retaining walls.Disadvantages of Retaining Walls Retaining walls require careful planning and engineering to ensure they are strong enough to hold back the soil. Another disadvantage of retaining walls is that they can be difficult to maintain. Retaining walls can be susceptible to erosion, cracking, and other types of damage.Poured Concrete Poured concrete retaining walls are the strongest and most durable option available.