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| Structural Engineering is the foundation from which all contractors should be measured. Many companies build retaining walls. At Wallco, every wall is structurally engineered by a Registered Professional Engineer with knowledge and understanding of the highly volatile soils that exist throughout the country. These soils greatly increase the need for competent contractors with experienced engineers working together to create lasting structures. The Structural Engineer designs walls to handle Local Stability (or to retain grade behind the retaing wall). In addition, Wallco works hand in hand with Geo-Technical Engineers to analyze Global Stability conditions when the situation merits. This type of analysis is critical in confirming the soils below the wall are strong enough to hold the weight of the new wall and fill behind it. |
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The Stone Gravity Type Retaining Wall retains grade through weight. As seen in the details (left), the wall is much wider than the 12" wide cap which is visible at the top. In reality, the walls can reach heights over 30' and can vary from 18" to 15' + wide. A continuous rock/gravel pocket exists behind the wall to alleviate hydrostatic pressure build up through weep holes located at the bottom of the wall.
Segmental Block Retaining Walls also retain grade through weight. However, once the block wall exceeds 3' to 4' in height, the weight of the block is insufficient to retain the weight of the dirt. As such, Geo-grid is installed between layers of compacted dirt or select fill, behind the blocks. It is this "Engineered Fill" and grid that holds the dirt in place. In this instance, the blocks are more for "aesthetics" than functionality. Contact Gary at Wallco to discuss Engineering options. |
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