Retaining walls

Excavation work inevitably means retaining walls. Depending on the location of the wall, its height and whether it’s to create a retaining wall in a highly visible location, there are different materials you can use: precast concrete, concrete block and timber are the most common but there are plenty of alternatives.

• Consider the style and feel you’re after, or, if the wall is not in a public area, whether this matters at all.
• Remember, retaining walls must be included in the building consent and signed off.
• Is the ground supported during construction (only if necessary)
• Are the materials consistent with the look and feel of the design you want to achieve?
• Ensure the wall is drained behind and waterproofed/tanked (if waterproofing is necessary)