Retaining Wall

Definition

A retaining wall is a wall designed to resist the lateral pressures of retained soil. It holds back a hillside or is backfilled to create a level surface.

Purpose

The purpose of a retaining wall is to prevent soil erosion, manage water runoff, and create usable land on slopes by holding back soil and providing stability to the landscape.

Examples of Use

• Retaining walls are used in landscaping to create terraces and level areas on sloped properties.
• Highway construction projects use retaining walls to stabilize embankments and prevent landslides.
• Retaining walls support the soil around basement foundations, preventing soil collapse and water infiltration.

Related Terms

• Gravity Wall: A type of retaining wall that relies on its mass to resist the pressure of the retained soil.
• Cantilever Wall: A retaining wall with a reinforced concrete footing and a vertical stem, designed to leverage the weight of the backfill to provide stability.
• Anchored Wall: A retaining wall supported by anchors driven into the ground behind the wall.

Notes

Proper design and construction of retaining walls are essential to ensure their stability and longevity, preventing structural failure and soil erosion.