Block Retaining Walls Key Terms

Get acquainted with common terms related to block retaining walls

By Howard Robertson

Block retaining walls are the walls that support the slopes in and around your house or office. These walls provide stability to the soil and level the area, which otherwise would be unusable. Products for building the retaining walls are available in different materials, sizes and shapes.

In this guide, we will cover some of the key terms related to block retaining walls, such as segmental retaining walls, geogrids, lateral earth pressure, compaction, backfill, wall caps and coping.

Segmental retaining walls (SRWs)

Segmental retaining walls, popularly known as SRWs, are the interlocking units made of concrete. Segmental retaining walls are economical and easy to install, as they do not require mortar.
Try: You can get the detailed information about segmental retaining walls at the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), an association of the concrete masonry industry professionals.

Geogrid

Geogrid is a material that holds or reinforces the soil and provides stability for slopes. They are available in various materials, sizes and strengths.
Try: You can read through the glossary of technical terms at Tensar Corporation. In addition, Keystone Retaining Wall Systems gives basic information about geogrids and installation tips for its geogrid products.

Compaction

Compaction is the process of eliminating the air pockets near the retaining wall to increase the density of the soil and hold it in place. This provides a firm foundation for the wall. The compaction process requires tools known as compactors.
Try: Allan Block Corporation, a reputable company in the field of retaining walls, provides detailed information about the compaction process.

Backfill

Backfill is the material used for filling the excavated earth for the foundation or base of the wall. Soil type is an important factor in selecting the type of backfill material to be used.
Try: For basic information on backfill and other terms related to SRWs, browse through the website of BRACT, an installer of segmental retaining walls.

Lateral earth pressure

Lateral earth pressure is the pressure or the load that is developed by the backfill on the wall. Lateral earth pressure determines the required strength of a retaining wall.
Try: To understand the concept of lateral earth pressure and its significance for design of a retaining wall, read through basic information at The Concrete Network, an education resource for the concrete industry.

Wall caps and copings

Wall caps and copings are top surfaces that protect wall and wall-like structures. These are made of concrete, stones or bricks.
Try: Paver Search, an information resource for landscaping and paving activities, provides detailed information about applications, shapes and sizes of wall caps and copings.