Retaining walls are an integral component of any construction project that involves working on or near an incline, such as patios, gardens, parking lots or any other functional spaces on sloped land. They serve as flat surfaces to allow sunken patios, gardens and other functional spaces such as sunken patios to exist on level ground without erosion leading to dangerous landslides that threaten lives and properties. A well-constructed retaining wall also helps prevent soil erosion which may otherwise cause landslides that pose grave threats to life and property - these structures help create flat areas suitable for sunken patios, gardens parking lots etc.
Designing a retaining wall requires careful consideration of both site conditions and load requirements. An engineer should conduct a geotechnical analysis in order to assess whether there are sufficient load-bearing capacities of soil beneath it to support its weight, along with any lateral or vertical forces which might exert themselves against it.
Retaining walls are constructed from various materials, such as stone, brick and concrete. Each material offers different properties that make them suitable for different functions in a retaining wall system; concrete can be cast to achieve nearly any shape or finish desired while brick has long been used in buildings for centuries - offering exceptional strength.
Engineers must consider drainage needs when creating a retaining wall design. Block retaining walls may include drainage holes within their blocks for draining water away from the structure, while concrete retaining walls require a separate system with drainage tiles installed for maximum efficacy and to reduce moisture build-up and avoid structural damage.
