Light gravity walls

Light gravity retaining walls normally consist of a single skin of blocks and should not exceed a certain height limit. Please note that The NHBRC requirement is that one can build a wall to a height of 1.2m without consulting an engineer, but as a general rule 1.5m for walls no steeper than 70º is also possible. Any steeper and especially load carrying walls must be designed by a qualified engineer, even if only 1.2m high.

To check you possible wall height for a single skin wall, consult design tables for Terraforce products.

The planning of a plant supportive retaining wall requires to be looked at from the environmental point of view as well as from structural and cost considerations.

Retaining system: Resist the temptation to specify slender, stretched-out types or imitations of proven blocks. The system should be chosen for maximum structural mass (no air voids within wall) combined with optimal rooting conditions. This will help in binding the system and embankment together.

Climatic conditions: Exposure to factors such as coastal, salt laden winds, long hours of direct sunlight, deep shadows, etc., should be taken into account.

Function and type of vegetation: Herbaceous, deep rooting (low maintenance) or attractive flowers (high maintenance) may be considered. Mixed complimentary species or uniform ground covers can be planted. Feeding values for birds and insects must be investigated for a complete bio-engineering approach.

Maintenance: The monitoring of soil fertility, irrigation and regular maintenance operations form an integral part of a growing investment. Indigenous plants are ideally adapted to prevailing climatic conditions. They generally require less water and maintenance, are deep rooting and can contribute considerably toward adding competence to these installations. Terraforce licensees in most areas have a list of suitable plants available.

Sharp or wide, convex or concave curves or corners are formed by simply turning each unit within the half-moon interlock. Design options are limitless with Terraforce because of the unique shape which allows straight or staggered bond, and wall angles from vertical to a 30 degree slope.

Please note: The success of any construction project depends on professional design, quality materials and good construction techniques.