Apart from the foundation, walls also determine the strength of the overall structure. One reason why walls with a retaining system are widely used in residential and commercial structures—retaining walls provide stability and offer protection from fire. The interlocking feature of these walls makes them convenient to use. Here are some of the wall types you can choose from. 

  • Gravity walls: This retaining wall system is designed for holding the weight of the soil placed behind them. Gravity walls are made of casted concrete, stones, and large masonry blocks. The weight of the materials creates lateral pressure on the earth. Their interlocking pattern is adjusted to lean towards the soil, and therefore, their mass enables them to counter the soil pressure arising from behind. Gravity walls can have a height ranging from four feet to ten feet and can stand firm without reinforcement.
  • Segmental: These walls are designed for use as a gravity wall with or without the need for reinforcements. A segmental retaining wall can have a height of more than thirty inches. The brick units are interlocked to prevent them from sliding and turning over, and using concrete without stacking with mortar. These bricks are plant manufactured and therefore meet industry standards. These walls offer durability, weight, and strength.
  • Cantilevered Walls: These walls are in the shape of an inverted 'T' and are built as per the leverage principles. Two methods used in making these retaining wall systems are mortared masonry and concrete reinforcing. One of the advantages of these walls is that lesser material is required in their construction than a gravity wall. They can either be prepared in a concrete facility or can even be made at the construction site. 

Some other retaining walls include piled retaining walls, crib walls, hybrid systems, anchored retaining walls, and more. Each type of wall has distinct features and specific uses. Therefore, it is essential to choose retaining walls that match your purpose.