Retaining Walls

Why Some Retaining Walls Fail

Common Problems:

  • No drain installed

  • Drain installed, but no outlet for water

  • Drain installed without proper gravel and filter fabric - leading to clogging

  • Drain installed too high - allowing water pressure to build up below the drain

Potential Damage:

  • Excessive/unsightly leaning (rotation)

  • Collapse

  • Excessive wall cracking

  • Soil/pavement buckling in front of wall

  • Soil subsidence behind wall

Proper Solutions:

  • Install continuous drain pipe embedded in gravel and wrapped in filter cloth

  • Drainpipe should be installed below the finish floor/grade and above the bottom of the footing

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Information provided by Building Analysts, a full-service architectural and engineering firm with many years of experience in construction litigation. Their services include: architectural and structural investigations, repair recommendations, preparation of exhibits and expert testimony. Contact Building Analysts Toll Free at: (800) 352-1497.