An artificial structure, a retaining wall resists soil pressure when an elevation change exceeds the angle at which the earth is in repose. In addition to supporting a sloped surface, a properly constructed wall can also be used as a means of reducing the hydrostatic force and draining runoff. You can get the best guide on retaining walls san diego.
A cantilever barrier is the most common type of freestanding structure. It has no side support. Retaining walls cantilever from the base and extend up to the level on either side. They also hold back an upper grade on their opposite side. The walls must be designed and built to withstand both water and soil pressure. An anchored wall can be a notable wall type. It is supported with anchors that are buried deep into the soil behind it (on the slope). The soil nailing technique can help reinforce a wall. It is an inexpensive way of stabilizing slopes, and building retaining wall from top to bottom. This process of ground reinforcement uses steel tendons that are drilled into the soil and then grouted to form a composite mass, similar to a gravitational wall.
It is vital to design and plan retaining walls. They are designed to prevent soils from sliding down a slope. At the top, the pressures on the wall are the lowest. They increase dramatically towards the base. The difference in pressure on the surface of the retaining walls can result in tipping and collapse.
Materials for a retaining-wall can range from wood logs to concrete blocks. Materials and height of the wall will depend on several factors. The height and type of material to be used are important considerations when deciding on placement and materials. Also, it is important that a drainage solution be in place to drain the soil over the wall. As the soil is soaked up by rainwater or irrigation, it puts a lot of pressure on the wall. If the wall does not receive proper drainage it is susceptible to sliding, tipping or collapsing, which could be very expensive and dangerous.
The most popular uses of these walls include parking lots and drives, although they are also used as a border for an inground pool or to support patios outside. No matter if the terrain is on a residential or commercial property, the shape of the landscape can sometimes limit what options are available for a driveway or parking lot. The walls are used to allow parking and driveways in places that would otherwise not be possible.