OTTAWA RETAINING WALLS

“Why might I need a retaining wall built?” is a question we do here. We also get “what type of retaining wall do I need?” Here are some answers.

A retaining wall is a structure that is designed to hold back soil or other materials from an area where they would otherwise move downhill due to gravity.

Retaining walls are typically used to create level areas for landscaping or construction, to prevent erosion or landslides, or to protect buildings or other structures from the force of soil movement.

Common signs that you may require a retaining wall include:

The prevention of erosion

Retaining walls can stabilize steep slopes or hillsides, preventing soil erosion caused by rainfall, wind, and even earthquakes. Where there’s a threat of soil being washed away, specifically in areas with heavy rainfall, this is an important tool to employ.

Reclaim usable space

Retaining walls can be used to create level areas for landscaping or construction projects, such as patios, driveways, or gardens. By leveling out the ground, retaining walls make it easier to build and use these spaces.

The protection of structures

A retaining wall has the main purpose of preventing the soil from moving downhill and causing damage to a structure's foundation or other structure located on a slope.

Prevent landslides

Retaining walls can be used to stabilize the soil and prevent landslides or other types of slope failure in areas with steep slopes.

They can also be used to improve poor drainage in an area by directing water flow away from threatened areas and structures.

Retaining walls are an important tool for containing earth and preventing erosion, creating usable space, and protecting structures in areas with steep slopes or hillsides.

There are several options to consider when deciding on the best retaining wall, each with its own unique set of characteristics and advantages. Five common types are:

Gravity retaining walls

Gravity retaining walls are typically made from concrete or stone and are one of the most common styles of walls. These walls rely on their weight employing the natural force of gravity to hold back the soil. They can be built to various heights and thicknesses depending on the needs of the project.

Cantilever retaining walls

Cantilever retaining walls are made from reinforced concrete and are designed with a thinner base and thicker stem which is anchored to a footing. This type of retaining wall is ideal for taller structures as it can hold back greater amounts of soil than a gravity retaining wall.

Sheet pile retaining walls

Sheet pile retaining walls are made from interlocking steel, vinyl, or wood sheets that are driven deep into the soil. This type of retaining wall lends itself to areas with limited space or where the soil is difficult to work with because it requires very little excavation.

Anchored retaining walls

Anchored retaining walls are similar to cantilever walls but are reinforced with cables or other types of anchors that are anchored to the soil behind the wall. This type of retaining wall is ideal for tall or heavily loaded structures as it can provide additional strength and stability.

Gabion retaining walls

Gabion retaining walls are made from wire mesh baskets filled with stones, which are stacked together to create a wall. This type of retaining wall is ideal for areas where a more natural or rustic appearance is desired. 

There are several other types of retaining walls that are used in different situations.

Boulder, blast rock, poured concrete, and concrete block retaining walls are all types of gravity retaining walls, which rely on their own weight and the force of gravity to hold back the soil. This is a brief overview of each type:

Boulder retaining walls

Boulder retaining walls are constructed from large, irregularly shaped boulders stacked on top of each other to create a wall. These walls are often used in areas where a more natural or rustic appearance is desired and can be effective in stabilizing steep slopes or hillsides.

Blast rock retaining walls

Blast rock retaining walls are made from large, angular pieces of rock that are typically created through controlled blasting of rock formations. These walls are similar in appearance to boulder walls but have a more uniform shape and are typically used in larger more heavy-duty applications.

Poured concrete retaining walls

Poured concrete retaining walls are made by pouring concrete into molds or forms to create a solid wall. These walls can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of the project.

Concrete block retaining walls

Concrete block retaining walls are built using precast concrete blocks and use a stacking and/or interlocking process. These walls are often employed for residential or commercial landscaping projects as they can be relatively easy to install.

All types of retaining walls have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. For example, boulder and blast rock walls can be more challenging to install and may require more maintenance over time but can provide a more natural appearance.

Poured concrete and concrete block walls on the other hand are more durable and require less maintenance but may be less visually appealing.

The best type of retaining wall for any individual project will depend on multiple factors that need to be taken into consideration before any construction can occur. These include the required height and weight of the structure, the type of soil being retained, and the desired aesthetic appearance.

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