When Should a Retaining Wall Be Replaced?
A retaining wall should be evaluated for replacement when the wall has substantial or continuing movement, widespread bulging, major displacement, foundation loss, recurring drainage failure or damage that cannot be corrected without rebuilding a large portion of the system.
The final decision requires an on-site assessment. A photo or one crack cannot show the condition of the base, soil and drainage behind the wall.
Concrete retaining wall beside a sidewalk · Butler, Indiana
Repair may still be possible
Localized damage, a limited drainage problem or individual displaced units may be repairable when the wall remains stable and the cause can be corrected. Cosmetic patching is not enough when the soil pressure, water path or foundation problem remains active.
Replacement should correct the cause
A replacement plan should address why the wall moved. That may include the base, backfill, drainage, reinforcement, slope or loads above the wall. Rebuilding the visible face without correcting the cause can allow the same problem to return.
Read the detailed guide to fixing a leaning retaining wall and learn what causes a wall to bulge. Unique Concrete can assess whether it makes more sense to repair or replace a failing retaining wall.
Have a slope, drainage issue, or failing wall in Northeast Indiana?
Request an on-site assessment from Unique Concrete.