Why retaining walls fail, and how to build one that lasts

When a retaining wall fails, it usually is not the wall itself — it is the water behind it. Here is what actually keeps a wall standing.

Water is the enemy

Soil holds water, and wet soil is heavy. Without somewhere to go, that water builds up behind the wall and pushes — a load most walls were never built to take. Get the drainage right and you take the pressure off.

What goes in behind the wall

• Ag-drain along the base to collect water and carry it away.
• Free-draining backfill like gravel, not just packed clay, so water can reach the drain.
• An outlet so the drain actually goes somewhere instead of filling up.

The wall itself

Whether it is rock, block or timber, the wall needs a solid base and the right batter or footing for its height. Taller walls take more engineering, and we build them to suit the load.

Build it once

A wall built with proper drainage is a wall you forget about. One built without it is a repair waiting to happen. 0439 732 567 and we will build yours to last.