A Comprehensive Guide to how Anchored Retaining Walls Work
There are many advantages you will enjoy when you install a retaining wall on your property. When properly designed, not only will it transform your space, but a strong wall can also help prevent soil erosion in your area.
Also known as a tie-back system wall, Anchored Retaining Walls are often the best choice for projects that requires durability and strength.
If you want to make sure that it is the type of retaining wall that will fit your landscaping and hardscaping needs, this guide will tell you about how it works, its pros and cons, and how it is different from the other wall types.
What are anchored retaining walls?
A retaining wall is a landscaping structure typically made of rocks, concrete blocks, or other materials to help retain the soil behind it. Although garden retaining walls are built for practical reasons, they can add to the aesthetics of your property when perfectly integrated with your existing landscape design. (1)
An anchored retaining wall is a type of wall that is supported by “anchors” driven into the earth for added stability. Compared to other retaining walls that have to rely on their own weight for steadiness, these walls get tied back using cables or strips, hence, its name.
How does an anchored wall work?
“The details are not the details. They make the design.” - Charles Eames
Depending on the specific needs in a particular project, the ties may be drilled into the ground or into a deadman anchor that is made of reinforced concrete. The wall may also require additional cables in a situation where it is expected to support a bigger load or if the area is extremely sloped.
Anchor walls can be customized to fit the needs of their owners. In some situations, however, owners will have no choice but to make use of the deadman anchor driven to the ground if their area is extremely unstable. This increases the resistance of the retaining wall.
Are they worth it?
Are tieback walls worth the investment? Here are the pros and cons you need to know before having one installed.
The advantages
· Increases the value of your property
If you are looking for an improvement in your home that has a high ROI or return on investment, anchor walls are surely a good idea for your needs. This is often the case in areas that are known for their poor-quality soil or in places that have a flooding and erosion problem.
· High resistance to pressure
Anchor walls are known for their rigidity and stability. Hence, they are often the go-to for owners that prefer functionality.
· Do not require too much space
Anchored retaining walls are thinner compared to the other retaining wall types. But make no mistake – they are still more durable due to their added supports.
The disadvantages
· Needs to be designed and installed by pros
There are many things that have to be considered when designing and installing an anchoring wall. If not done properly, you may be stuck with a wall that will start to fail in just a few years or months. Because of this, it will not be in your best interests to DIY this project.
· Needs a permit before installation
For walls that exceed the required height, many cities in the U.S. require owners to secure a permit before installing a retaining wall on their property.
What are the other types of walls?
Are anchor walls overkill for your current needs? No worries – you can choose from other retaining wall types meant for landscaping, gardening, temporary use, or other projects that do not require as much support that tieback walls provide.
Gravity walls are best for gardening purposes. They are economical for projects that do not need high amounts of support.
Cantilever walls are best for sloped areas as they are designed to resist pressure.
Piling walls are flexible and can be perfect for both long-term and short-term projects.
Get the right type of retaining wall for your project
If you are planning to install an anchor retaining wall on your property, it is likely that you will need an expert to design it if you want the structure to last a long time.
Do you want your retaining wall designed by professional contractors? We will be happy to be of service. Feel free to visit our page and our experienced team will give you an idea as to what type of wall you need. With a variety of options at hand, we will do our best to install a wall that will suit your preferences.
We design and build retaining walls in Raleigh and nearby areas.
References
- What are the Advantages of Adding a Retaining Wall? | Simple Solutions
https://www.simple-solutions.ca/blog/advantages-of-adding-a-retaining-wall/
