Answering Questions About Retaining Wall Blocks
Basic Questions and Answers on Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks
If you’re a contractor, you most probably already know a lot about concrete retaining wall blocks. But what if you’re a homeowner who wants to hire a contractor or a DIY enthusiast who wants to build a small retaining wall? Then you’ll want to read on as we answer the basic questions to get you started.
What are Retaining Wall Blocks?
Also referred to as CRBs, these are concrete units, which are used to build a structure to keep soil back. Modular in design, these units can be stacked to create a structure at the desired height.
At What Angles Can the CRBs be Laid?
You can install the concrete blocks at angles from 70 degrees right up to 90 degrees.
Where are CRBs Used?
The units are used for cut slopes, embankments, and attenuation ponds, to create planting spaces and to add landscaped areas. If your garden has a steep gradient, then most of it is not usable. To create level areas where you can build entertainment or pause spaces, you can use CRBs to keep the soil from the high lying area back when you create a terraced garden.
You can also add a retaining structure if part of your house is lower than the surrounding soil. Instead of having a slope slanting towards your home and having excess run-off pushing against the house during or after heavy rains, the structure keeps the soil back and makes it possible to have a level area next to the house with drainage leading water away.
If your home is built on top of a hill, then you’ll want to add retaining walls to keep the foundation from shifting because of soil movement and water run-off.
For a commercial property setting, you can add such a wall to create aesthetic appeal, prevent water run-off, and to create level parking areas with the structures on the side to prevent soil erosion.
Why Use CRBs as Opposed to Normal Brick Units?
The CRBs are prefabricated to a specific design and strength. The units are larger than normal brick blocks, and due to their design, make for sturdy structures. The speed of construction is also faster than with conventional brick systems, and you don’t have to use concrete between the blocks. These factors make CRBs cost-effective alternatives to other types of materials for building retaining walls.
Which Factors Affect the Price of CRBs?
Several factors determine the cost of the retaining structure including, but not limited to:
- Whether it is an open or close face structure.
- The height, angle and length of the structure.
- Work face accessibility.
- Whether you choose coloured or grey blocks as the latter types are less expensive.
- Angle at which the wall is constructed.
- The types of material you use.
What’s the Difference Between a Single Slab and a Segmented Retaining Structure?
With the single slab type, concrete is used to create an uninterrupted structure surface. With the segmented type, you use CRBs to build the structure.
What’s the Difference Between a Retaining Wall and a Sea Wall?
The latter is constructed to protect the shoreline and act in a way similar to the retain types to prevent soil erosion. It’s important to build the right structure for this purpose. Ask our consultants about suitable applications for CRBs to make sure the structure you erect is safe and suitable for the intended purpose.
What is the Height Limit of the Structure?
Depending on the angle of the building, the type of materials used and the location, the structure can be exceptionally high. However, for any structure higher than a decorative one-metre type, seek help from an experienced engineer.
Where Can I Find More Information and Prices on Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks in Gauteng?
Get in touch for quotes, prices and more information on our range of quality and competitively priced CRBs.