Upside Down Retaining Wall
Upside Down Retaining Wall
(OP)
Hello folks,
I've been dealing with a challenge that I could definitely use some help on.
My client is looking to build a home on a relatively steep slope, going downhill from the face of the structure. The garage, which is at the face, is at the highest point at grade, and the grade continues to dip such that the worst case scenario is that the back of the wall of the garage is 12'-6" above grade.
I was thinking that an upside-down retaining wall, where the stem walls would serve in retaining the soil from below the garage, and the toe, which would serve as a mat slab, would be an alternative. Would this work? Any special considerations I should make note of?
Does anyone have any better ideas? A conventional retaining wall is not an option because of the proposed structures proximity to the neighbor.
Thank you,
R
I've been dealing with a challenge that I could definitely use some help on.
My client is looking to build a home on a relatively steep slope, going downhill from the face of the structure. The garage, which is at the face, is at the highest point at grade, and the grade continues to dip such that the worst case scenario is that the back of the wall of the garage is 12'-6" above grade.
I was thinking that an upside-down retaining wall, where the stem walls would serve in retaining the soil from below the garage, and the toe, which would serve as a mat slab, would be an alternative. Would this work? Any special considerations I should make note of?
Does anyone have any better ideas? A conventional retaining wall is not an option because of the proposed structures proximity to the neighbor.
Thank you,
R





RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
On the surface, it sounds like someone is trying to jam too big a structure onto to small of a lot.
Mike Lambert
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
If your retaining wall is tied back into the house, analyze the block of soil beneath and make sure the whole thing won't move. You may find yourself saying to your neighbor, "Mi casa es su casa".
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
Any thoughts?
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
Mike Lambert
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
Marine dolphins are built like this all the time.
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
@Buggar - I think I'm understanding what you're saying, but do you have any samples I can look at?
RE: Upside Down Retaining Wall
I've also seen MSE walls (mechanically stabilized earth?) similar to what you are doing and refer you to the manufacturers of these systems.