- Foundation Preparation: Prepare the foundation with a stable base and level surface.
- Block Placement: Stack precast concrete blocks or other modular units to create the retaining wall. Interlocking blocks or a keying system may be used to stabilize the structure.
- Backfill and Drainage: Backfill with gravel or suitable material and incorporate drainage measures to manage water pressure behind the wall.
· Planning and Design:
- Site Assessment: Our experts evaluate the site’s topography, soil conditions, and water flow patterns. Identify areas prone to erosion or flooding and determine where drainage and retaining structures are needed.
- Design Specifications: We Develop detailed designs for the drainage and retaining structures, including layout, materials, dimensions, and construction methods. Our team ensure compliance with local regulations and engineering standards.
- Permits and Approvals: We obtain necessary permits and approvals from local authorities, especially if the work affects public spaces or involves significant alterations to natural watercourses.
· Drainage Installation:
- Surface and Subsurface Drainage Systems:
- Surface Drainage:
- Grading: Grade the surface to direct water flow towards drainage points. Ensure proper slope to facilitate natural runoff.
- Drainage Channels: Construct channels or ditches to collect and convey surface runoff. Channels may be lined with concrete or geotextile fabrics to prevent erosion.
- Catch Basins: Install catch basins or inlets at low points to capture and filter surface runoff. Connect catch basins to underground drainage pipes.
- Subsurface Drainage:
- Trenching: Excavate trenches for subsurface drainage pipes. The depth and width depend on the design and soil conditions.
- Pipe Installation: Lay perforated drainage pipes (usually PVC or corrugated plastic) in the trenches. These pipes collect and convey groundwater to a designated discharge point.
- Gravel or Aggregate: Surround the pipes with gravel or aggregate to facilitate water flow into the pipes and prevent clogging. Cover the gravel with geotextile fabric to separate it from the surrounding soil.
· Retaining Structure Installation: There are different types of Retaining Structures such as:
- Gravity Retaining Walls:
- Excavation and Foundation: Excavate the area for the retaining wall foundation. The foundation must be deep and stable to support the wall’s weight.
- Wall Construction: Construct the wall using materials such as concrete, masonry, or stone. Gravity walls rely on their weight to resist soil pressure. Ensure proper alignment and levelling.
- Backfill and Drainage: After the wall is constructed, backfill behind the wall with soil or gravel. Install drainage pipes or weep holes to prevent water build-up behind the wall, which can cause pressure and structural damage.
- Cantilever Retaining Walls:
- Foundation and Base: Excavate for the foundation and base slab. The base should be reinforced with steel rebar to provide additional strength.
- Wall Construction: Build the cantilever wall using reinforced concrete. The wall consists of a vertical stem and a horizontal base slab that resists soil pressure through leverage.
- Backfill and Drainage: Backfill behind the wall with soil or gravel and install drainage systems to manage water pressure.
- Sheet Pile Walls:
- Sheet Pile Installation: Drive or vibrate sheet piles (steel, concrete, or vinyl) into the ground to form a continuous barrier. Sheet piles are used in situations where space is limited, or the soil is unstable.
- Lagging and Backfill: Install lagging (horizontal boards) between the sheet piles if required and backfill behind the wall.
- Segmental Retaining Walls: Quality Assurance and Testing:
- Inspection: Inspect all components during construction to ensure they meet design specifications and quality standards. Verify proper alignment, compaction, and drainage functionality.
- Testing: Conduct tests for drainage efficiency and wall stability. For retaining walls, ensure there are no signs of deformation or failure.
· Finalizing and Maintenance:
- Surface Restoration: Restore the surface area affected by construction, including replanting vegetation or paving if required.
Ongoing Maintenance: Develop a maintenance plan for regular inspections and upkeep of the drainage and retaining structures. Address any issues such as erosion, blockages, or structural damage promptly.