Retaining walls are essential structures designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion on properties with sloped landscapes. They also provide aesthetic value, adding structure and definition to gardens and outdoor spaces. There are various types of retaining walls, each suited for different purposes based on the terrain, material, and desired function. In this article, we will explore the most common types of retaining walls and their unique features.

1. Gravity Retaining Walls

Gravity retaining walls rely on their massive weight to hold back soil. These walls are typically built from heavy materials like concrete, stone, or brick, and their design doesn’t require additional reinforcement. The weight of the wall itself counteracts the lateral pressure from the soil behind it.

Key Features:

  • Simple design: They don’t require reinforcement like steel or soil anchors.
  • Thicker base: Gravity walls are usually thicker at the bottom and taper toward the top for stability.
  • Versatility: Suitable for smaller, residential projects like garden walls, but can also be used for larger applications if built appropriately.

Common Materials:

  • Concrete blocks
  • Stones
  • Bricks

Gravity walls are ideal for short walls, up to 10 feet in height. They work well for small garden landscapes and decorative retaining wall projects.

2. Cantilever Retaining Walls

Cantilever retaining walls are among the most common types for large-scale projects. These walls are made from reinforced concrete and feature an “L” or “T” shape. The wall extends beneath the soil to provide additional stability, using the weight of the backfill soil to keep the wall in place.

Key Features:

  • Efficient use of materials: Less material is required compared to gravity walls for taller structures.
  • Reinforcement: Built with steel reinforcement for additional strength.
  • For taller walls: Suitable for walls taller than 10 feet.

Cantilever walls are often used in commercial applications or for large retaining structures, such as highway overpasses or steep embankments, due to their ability to handle higher loads.

3. Sheet Piling Retaining Walls

Sheet piling walls are thin, vertical walls often used in areas with soft soil or tight spaces. They are made from materials like steel, wood, or vinyl and are driven deep into the ground. These walls are ideal when there’s limited space, or when the soil conditions are not stable enough to support other types of walls.

Key Features:

  • Deep installation: The wall’s stability comes from the depth it is driven into the soil.
  • Suitable for soft soils: They are often used in marshy or waterlogged areas.
  • Minimal footprint: Ideal for urban or confined spaces.

While sheet piling walls are effective in soft soils or waterfront applications, they may not be as aesthetically pleasing for residential landscapes compared to other types.

4. Anchored Retaining Walls

Anchored retaining walls use anchors (typically steel cables or rods) driven deep into the ground behind the wall. These anchors provide additional support, making them suitable for walls under heavy pressure or taller walls. The anchors are usually installed with a combination of other retaining wall types, such as gravity or cantilever walls.

Key Features:

  • Additional support: Provides extra stability for walls facing extreme soil pressure.
  • Versatile: Can be used with other wall types for added strength.
  • Strong hold: Suitable for steep slopes and large retaining walls.

Anchored walls are commonly used for tall retaining walls or when additional reinforcement is required to counteract the pressure from heavy loads or steep slopes.

5. Segmental Retaining Walls

Segmental retaining walls are modular block walls that do not require mortar or concrete for construction. These interlocking blocks are designed to fit together, creating a stable structure through their weight and the friction between blocks. These walls are relatively easy to install and can be used for both small and large projects.

Key Features:

  • DIY-friendly: Can be installed by homeowners for small landscaping projects.
  • No mortar required: The interlocking design eliminates the need for binding materials.
  • Flexible design: Can be built in curves or straight lines.

Common Materials:

  • Concrete blocks
  • Stone blocks

Segmental retaining walls are popular for residential landscaping projects, offering flexibility in design and an aesthetically pleasing appearance. They are suitable for both low and medium-height walls.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of retaining wall depends on the specific needs of your project, including the height of the wall, soil conditions, and the amount of load the wall will need to support. Gravity walls are excellent for small, decorative projects, while cantilever and anchored walls are better suited for larger, more structural applications. Sheet piling works best in tight or soft soil conditions, and segmental walls offer a flexible and DIY-friendly option for residential use. Understanding the different types of retaining walls can help you select the most appropriate solution for your landscape or construction project.