Bsmt Fdtns: Ret. Wall vs. Plate/Buttress Theory

[scottyj]

Under what circumstances does a basement foundation wall (this one is 14') warrant a retaining wall type design? I understand there is a 'plate' theory, allowing for buttress (endwall support) type design, but have been unable to locate clear information on this type of design.

I've been provided basic design criteria by a local geotech, but no indication whether this wall should be designed in any particular fashion.

 

[DaveAtkins]

If the basement is surrounded by soil on all sides, then the walls can be designed as supported top and bottom. Make sure the connection to the floor diaphragm can resist the reaction at the top of the wall.
If the basement has soil on one to three sides only, then you must use engineering judgment (and/or calculations) to determine whether or not the floor diaphragm can transfer the reaction from the top of the wall to the basement side walls. If it cannot, then I would use a retaining wall.

DaveAtkins