Retaining walls play a significant role in large-scale construction projects. As the name implies, these structures help retain onsite soil during excavation to enable contractors to complete their proposed building design. Hillside properties or subterranean projects that include basements typically need retaining walls to ensure productivity during construction.
The retaining wall technique in construction typically starts with complete excavation of the area where a structure will be built. Block walls or formed walls with steel reinforcements are placed strategically, followed by the pouring of concrete. The type of retaining wall used will depend on the size and budget of a construction project. Typically, block walls are more cost-effective but require an advanced skillset and more extensive workforce to ensure proper execution. Click here to know more about precast concrete retaining walls.
The relevance of waterproofing retaining walls
Contractors typically perform post-applied waterproofing to protect retaining walls from underground water, harmful gas vapours, and excess moisture that can seep through the hillside and subterranean walls. When water moisture evaporates on the dry portion of the wall, this can produce mould, mildew, and efflorescence.
The waterproofing process
Post-installation waterproofing, or the French drain waterproofing technique, utilises gravel pocket outfitted with perforated pipe, which functions as a drain system to direct water away from the wall. The application of sturdy retaining walls helps prevent the build-up of hydrostatic water pressure, which may contribute to the flooding of basements and structural damage of the foundation.
It is crucial to time post-installation waterproofing to maximise results. There should be no presence of tiny bubbles, voids, and raised areas, as these factors increase the likelihood of failure. Before waterproofing, it is crucial to ensure surface conditions are smooth with minimal to no imperfections. The joints are common areas of failure as they absorb moisture faster than other portions of retaining wall systems. Make sure to pay more attention to these areas during waterproofing.
Contractors use a term bar to terminate at grade level for below-grade waterproofing systems. A term bar is usually installed at the highest elevation grade level to seal off the top portion of a waterproofing system. This waterproofing technique prevents debris, dirt, and other contaminants from seeping through the waterproofing system, thus restricting chemical compatibility issues over time.
Block wall waterproofing and methane vapour barriers
When an underground construction project is built on a methane zone, a contractor must adhere to methane mitigation requirements. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct a methane test before implementing any further construction. In a methane mitigation design, a methane gas vapour barrier is utilised to prevent the diffusion of methane vapour through the foundation of the building over time.
The use of methane vapours is also crucial if you are building a structure on a subterranean feature that requires the installation of retaining walls. This is because the methane gas vapour membrane features a dual function of preventing the diffusion of water and methane through retaining wall systems.
When you are planning to embark on a hillside or underground construction project, it is imperative to consider the budget for additional work. This activity will require extensive excavation and the use of advanced equipment during installation, hence the costly price tag. While waterproofing retaining walls is an expensive activity and will affect the budget significantly, the long-term protection that it delivers makes it a worthwhile investment altogether.
Comments are closed.