Any construction project needs to be completed with great care to maximize the stability and longevity of the structure. You need to concentrate even more when soil stability at the construction is compromised in any way. Unstable slope terrains, soil corrosion, and water pooling at the construction site can impact the stability of the structure.
To nullify the impact of such factors on the building, you need to opt for a wall retaining system. This system helps in retaining the structure of a property by providing maximum support. From sheet piled to king post retaining walls, you have different options available for this system.
Construction of a wall retaining system isn’t a straightforward task. You need to go through a series of steps to prepare for it and hire professionals. Today, we are here with a stepwise guide on the construction of the wall retaining system. Let’s explore this guide without further ado.
A Stepwise Guide to Construction of Wall Retaining System
When we talk about the construction of a wall retaining system, can be divided into two parts. The first one is preparing for the wall retaining system and the second is the construction of this system. Let’s explore the steps involved in the whole process.
Step 1: Planning
You cannot just opt for wall retaining and start constructing this system whenever you want. You need to do proper homework before starting it. Planning for everything involved in it is a major part of constructing this system. You need to assess your needs and plan everything accordingly.
You must also set a budget and plan the construction under this budget. Apart from that, you must also plan who you will hire for this task and how many days you have to get it completed.
Step 2: Site Assessment
When done with planning, the next step is site assessment. It is often done by experienced civil engineers and builders who will carry out the whole construction process. They will visit your site to check whether you need a wall retaining system to support your structure or underground work like pilling or underpinning will do the job for you.
This site assessment may involve testing the stability and composition of soil as well. Based on this assessment, the design, type, and installation point of the wall retaining system will be decided. After this assessment, you will have information about:
- Soil type
- Slope angle
- Groundwater level
- Existing structures
- Environmental regulations
Step 3: Selecting the Suitable Type
Based on the information obtained from the site assessment, engineers or constructors will guide you in selecting the suitable wall retaining system. It’s probably the most crucial step as selecting the wrong type will result in heavy construction costs without getting the desired benefits. Therefore, you need to be very careful when opting for the wall retaining type. The most common types are:
King Post Retaining Walls: They are required at places where access is limited and other types may not work properly. They are suitable for areas with moderate soil pressure. You can opt for them for residential and small construction projects. If you want an affordable retaining wall system, it can be your go-to option.
Anchored Retaining Walls: They are highly suitable for high heights and loaded projects. You can opt for them when conventional gravity systems are not working. They are ideally used for mining projects and urban development programs.
Gravity Retaining Walls: This system is suitable for landscaping and residential projects. The wall itself provides the support to bear the pressure of the retained soil. If you are looking for an aesthetic option, gravity retaining walls are your best option.
Sheet Pile Retaining Walls: They are suitable for waterfront applications to stop soil erosion or water pressure. They are often used in marine construction port facilities and flood protection projects.
Step 4: Planning Permissions
The next step is obtaining planning permissions. Constructing a wall retaining system may require planning permissions and following building regulations. You have to prepare plans and submit them to obtain permission. The main planning permissions required for this construction are building regulations, zoning permissions, environmental laws, and other similar standards.
Step 5: Construction
Once done with the planning permissions, the next step is the construction of the wall retaining system. The construction process will be carried out by experienced workers. You need to hire a reputable construction company for the construction of the retaining walls.
Finding a reputable company can be a real struggle. Don’t worry! You can contact Southern Foundations & Piling. It’s a trusted company that has trained and licensed workers with top-tier equipment to carry out retaining wall projects.
Final Words
Now you know what steps are involved in the construction of a retaining wall system. Make sure to pay special attention to hiring the right constructors, as they will assist you with all the steps involved in this project.
