Key takeaways
- Water pressure is the number one cause of retaining wall failure.
- A buried, compacted base keeps the wall from sliding.
- Gravel and drain pipe behind the wall let water out.
- Taller walls need reinforcement and often an engineer.
Soil is heavy, and wet soil is heavier. A retaining wall has to hold that weight, and it has to let water go.
Drainage
A layer of clean gravel behind the wall and a perforated drain pipe at the base give water a way out, so pressure does not build up.
A buried base
The first course sits below grade on compacted stone. That buried course keeps the wall from sliding.
Reinforcement
Taller walls use geogrid, sheets of fabric tied into the soil behind. Rules and engineering requirements increase with height.
Signs of trouble
- Leaning or bulging
- Cracks and gaps in the face
- Water seeping through the face after rain
Our Retaining Wall Planner helps you think through height, courses and drainage.
Related services
Questions about your own project? Call or text 615-431-3789, or use the quote form below.