Potential Concrete Crack
Potential Concrete Crack
(OP)
This is more of an academic question for my knowledge. Please see the attached sketch for a repair to the top of a retaining wall (primarily aesthetic). The two 4x4 haunches on either side are to be saw cut so that the arch can place reveals for aesthetics. I could ask for the whole top to be taken down by 8" and re-install new but for argument's sake if I go with the attached layout, would there be a concern for cracking at the locations I highlighted? The only load this may see is college kids sitting on it or may be jumping off to the paved surface below.
FYI- Across the length of the wall, we intend to install CJs every 10' or so for shrinkage control.
FYI- Across the length of the wall, we intend to install CJs every 10' or so for shrinkage control.






RE: Potential Concrete Crack
I think it'd be easier and much less chance of cracking to remove it in a clean horizontal cut. But for argument's sake, I'd be more concerned with a potential horizontal crack as the top shrinks and the notches resist that shrinkage. But your hooked rebar should take care of that. Although that is not much concrete and such a short width, the shinkage would be minimal in the short direction.
RE: Potential Concrete Crack
Your architect might consider a reveal along the side, corresponding with the top of the base material, so any crack will be where planned, like a control joint.
RE: Potential Concrete Crack