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Retaining Walls

Structural walls to hold back earth and manage levels

Retaining walls are structural walls designed to hold back earth and manage changes in ground level. They are built from brick, block, or natural stone with proper concrete footings and drainage systems to relieve pressure.

Common Damage

1. Leaning or Bulging

  • Wall unstable due to ground pressure

2. Cracks & Movement

  • Visible in brickwork, blocks, or stone

3. Loose or Displaced Materials

  • Sections showing displacement

4. Poor Drainage Behind Wall

  • Causing pressure build-up

5. Deteriorated Mortar

  • Mortar joints deteriorated or missing

6. Foundation Failure

  • Base showing signs of settlement

Repairs

minor Repairs

  • Repointed joints with fresh mortar
  • Re-aligned wall to correct level

moderate Repairs

  • Dismantled and removed damaged or unstable sections
  • Strengthened foundation where required
  • Rebuilt affected areas using matching materials

major Repairs

  • Installed or improved drainage (weep holes / gravel backfill)
  • Full wall rebuild with new concrete footing
  • Structural reinforcement

New Installation

When Replacement Is Needed

  • Managing changes in ground level
  • Preventing soil erosion
  • Garden terracing or redesign

Installation Steps

  1. Excavate & Prepare

    • Excavate area and prepare foundation trench
  2. Install Footing

    • Solid concrete footing for structural support
  3. Build Wall

    • Using brick, block, or natural stone
    • Correct batter (slight backward lean) for stability
  4. Install Drainage

    • Membrane, gravel, and pipe behind wall if required
  5. Backfill

    • Fill in layers and compact to reduce movement
  6. Finish with Capping

    • Appropriate capping or coping on top

Lifespan

Brick/stone retaining wall
30–50+ years
Mortar joints
20–30 years before repointing

Warning Signs

  • Wall leaning or bulging
  • Visible cracks in structure
  • Water seeping through wall
  • Ground settling behind wall

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