Importance of Correct Materials and Construction of a CRB Wall

A CRB wall is constructed from concrete retaining wall blocks. It serves the purpose of keeping lateral materials back. More and more properties now feature CRB walls because these retaining structures offer several advantages:

  • Provide exceptional support for keeping materials such as soil from spilling over to a lower lying area.
  • Reduce the risk of landslides because of flooding.
  • Help to prevent or minimise erosion.
  • Reduce the risk of structural or property damage because of soil and rock movement from a higher lying area.
  • Create an aesthetically pleasing way to keep soil back.
  • Add value to a property.

Correct construction of the CRB wall is essential to minimise risk

With its function to be protective in the sense that it resists lateral materials and thus movement of a slope, it is imperative to ensure the correct choice of materials, design and construction.

Well-designed walls are functional, durable and aesthetically pleasing. Such structures can also be erected adjacent to verandas for landscaping purposes. In these instances, the hollow concrete blocks are filled with soil to provide growth areas for an array of plants.

It is possible to create terraces instead of having a gradual slope in the landscaped garden. The structures serve to hold back the soil of each area behind them, enabling the landscape architect to design levels that can be used more effectively than the slopes.

Factors such as the structure height, the types of materials against which it should provide resistance and the location should be considered to determine the correct design and construction of the CRB wall.

Any CRB wall with a height of more than 1,2 metres must be designed by an engineer. For a structure above 2,5 metres, it is essential to design a CRB wall according to the results and recommendations of the geo-technical report.

Structural failure of the CRB wall can lead to:

  • Property damage.
  • Injuries and fatalities of people and animals.
  • Financial losses due to the cost of repair, rebuilding and compensation for damage or injuries.
  • Flooding.

Although the property owner or developer should exercise caution when it comes to high construction quotes, it is equally important not to approve a quote just because it is cheap. If the price is too low, it can be indicative of sub-standard materials or compromises on expertise and proper design practices.

It is imperative to ensure compliance with the regulations for boundary and retaining walls as stipulated in SANS 10400. Make use of NHBRC registered contractors, even for retaining structures with heights below 1,2 metres.

An engineer who designs the structure in compliance with SANS 10040 and contractor that makes use of quality materials, such as the concrete retaining wall blocks available from us, design and build the structure based on the load requirements, height, ground water conditions and the available geo-technical information As such, the price will be higher because of correct materials and procedures. A professionally designed structure with consideration of the necessary factors is worth the extra money if one is to consider that it is a long-term, safety and value-adding structure.

The choice of material is just as essential. Compromising on the quality and choosing the wrong material for the building project put the entire project at risk. To this end, purchase materials from a supplier known for exceptional quality, consistency, affordable pricing as well as a wide range of products to meet your CRB wall material needs.

Where to find the right supplier?

We meet the requirements and offer an extensive range of superior quality CRB wall materials. In addition, we deliver throughout Gauteng and elsewhere in South Africa. Get in touch for a quote or more information about our range of products.

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