Best retaining wall builders in Thembalihle, Free State

The Role of Retaining Wall Builders in Construction Projects

What are retaining walls?

Retaining walls can be loosely defined as rigid walls or structures used to horizontally support soil and stones, allowing for the creation of different levels on either side of the wall. This is achieved by effectively holding soil on specific or stepped levels on steep, vertical or slanted slopes where the ground would otherwise be unusable. They may be commonly seen on hillsides, roadways, public parking areas and private gardens where they may be used to add decorative features to a landscape design. They are used in the prevention of soil erosion and landslides, in creating level surfaces on sloped terrains and adding to the visual appeal and overall usefulness of any difficult terrain. Retaining walls must be strong enough to withstand the extreme weight and pressure of soil (both dry and wet) and enable the drainage of groundwater from the upper levels, as well as resisting the natural forces of gravity. Consideration must, therefore, be given to the natural tendency of the above forces to push the wall forward, crack or collapse it completely if it is not correctly designed and built. 

What is the role of a retaining wall builder?

A retaining wall builder is a specialist in his field, combining technical expertise, artistic flair, knowledge and experience in his specific niche. These specialists are far more than bricklayers or stonemasons!

Their roles encompass the following responsibilities:

• Carrying out site assessments to evaluate the terrain, soil type and drainage conditions in deciding on the most suitable type of retaining wall, factoring in wall height and the load-bearing capacity requirements of the wall. 
• Planning and designing a functional wall which can withstand the lateral forces of the soil whilst still presenting an aesthetically pleasing appearance. They may work with engineers and architects if necessary.
• Selecting the correct materials according to the project’s requirements, any budget constraints, and the overall environmental conditions.
• Excavating and laying the foundations for the wall, and constructing a solid, stable and durable wall according to the design plans. 
• Installing drainage systems such as weep holes, gravel backfill and perforated pipes to prevent water accumulation behind the wall and degradation of the wall itself. 
• Possibly adding decorative elements to the finished wall such as the planting of suitable vegetation which will assist in soil erosion.  
• Conducting quality checks through regular inspections during and on completion of the wall to identify any potential problems which may arise.
• Providing practical guidance on the maintenance of the wall to ensure that it remains durable, safe, and stable. 

Types of retaining walls and materials used 

There are several types of retaining walls, each suited to different applications:

• Gravity Walls: These walls rely on their mass to resist pressure from behind. They are constructed from heavy materials like stone or concrete.

• Cantilevered Walls: Use a reinforced concrete base that extends into the soil to provide additional stability.
• Sheet Piling Walls: Made from steel, vinyl, or wood planks or poles driven into the ground, and are ideal for tight spaces.
• Anchored Walls: Use cables, stays or other supports anchored into the rock or soil behind the wall for additional strength.

There are different factors which have to be considered when planning and designing the right type of wall for the purpose it is to serve. These include the type of soil – whether it is sandy and loose, dense like clay, and how it holds water. Is the wall intended to support any heavy construction above it, such as a swimming pool, garage or other building, or something simpler like a lawn or driveway? What is the slope both above and below the wall and are either of these to be levelled? What is the height of the wall? Questions such as these will determine the type of wall and materials to be used in its construction.

Construction materials and techniques evolve over time

The materials used in constructing retaining walls have evolved with time and construction engineering advances. In earlier construction projects, retaining walls comprised large masses of concrete or stone. The modern trend often calls for taller walls which may be constructed from pre-cast concrete blocks with hollow interior sections (cellular confinement systems or geocells) for planting purposes, thereby creating what is known as a “green wall”, gabions (steel wire baskets filled with rocks), steel-reinforced cast-in-place (poured) concrete or mortared masonry (bricks), or materials such as steel, treated wooden planks or logs (which have a shorter lifespan), natural stone, vinyl, aluminium or fibreglass. The wall’s durability, appearance and cost are important factors when choosing the material to be used. For the environmentally conscious, concrete walls or blocks made from recycled materials are also becoming available. 

How to find the right retaining wall builder for your needs

Check their online ratings and customer reviews

When hiring any new contractor, it's important to consider their experience and expertise in the field, and their knowledge of different retaining wall materials and construction techniques, as well as checking their portfolios. Before deciding, take the time to research the builder's reputation and read customer reviews. Online search and review platforms such as Uptasker can provide valuable insights into the builder's performance, workmanship, and overall customer satisfaction, as positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients can assure you of the builder's ability to deliver quality results. Uptasker lists in geographical areas, which makes it so convenient when looking for a specialist near you. There are also one-click links to supplier websites, if available, allowing you to obtain comparative quotes on the same specifications, set up appointments or request suppliers to contact you directly. Alternatively, use word-of-mouth referrals where possible from friends and colleagues who have been through the process themselves.