Reinforced Earth Works

Reinforced earth works is a technique used for constructing earth-retaining structures. This construction technique uses layers of soil and synthetic materials to create structures such as retaining walls, bridge abutments, embankments, and other civil engineering works.

The technique involves placing horizontal layers of soil between layers of geosynthetic reinforcement, such as geotextiles, geogrids, or geocells. These reinforcements help to provide tensile strength to the soil, which allows it to resist lateral pressure and maintain stability. The resulting structure is typically more cost-effective, durable, and environmentally friendly than traditional concrete or masonry structures.

Reinforced earth works are typically constructed in the following manner:

• Excavation: The construction site is first excavated to the required depth and shape to accommodate the retaining structure.
• Placement of geosynthetics: A layer of geotextile fabric is placed over the excavated area to prevent soil migration and maintain the integrity of the structure.
• Backfilling: Backfill material, typically granular soil, is placed in lifts behind the retaining structure and compacted to a specific density. Steel reinforcement elements, such as strips or bars, are then inserted into the backfill material and anchored to the retaining structure.
• Compaction and testing: The backfill material is compacted to the required density at each lift, and the stability and strength of the structure are tested to ensure they meet the design specifications.
• Installation of drainage systems: If required, drainage systems will be installed to prevent water buildup and improve the overall stability of the structure.
• Facing: Finally, a facing material such as concrete or masonry blocks can be installed to provide a finished appearance to the structure.

Yes, reinforced earth works can be used for retaining walls. Reinforced earth works is a technique used for constructing earth-retaining structures, including retaining walls.

In fact, reinforced earth works is a very cost-effective and sustainable method for constructing retaining walls, and it is commonly used in a variety of applications, including highway and railway embankments, bridge abutments, and slope stabilization.

Reinforced earth work construction typically involves using a combination of soil, geosynthetics (such as geotextiles and geogrids), and steel reinforcement elements.

The specific materials used can vary depending on the particular project requirements and site conditions.

Reinforced earth works are often used in civil engineering projects because they are relatively easy to construct and maintain, can be adapted to various site conditions, and can be designed to withstand different types of loads and environmental conditions.

Additionally, the use of local soil materials in the construction of reinforced earth structures can help to reduce the number of imported materials needed, which can reduce costs and minimize the environmental impact of the project, making it a more affordable and eco-friendly construction technique compared to other traditional methods.

A strong and stable foundation is essential for reinforced earth works. The foundation should be able to bear the weight of the reinforced soil and any additional loads, such as water, vehicles, or buildings, that may be placed on it.

Typically, the foundation for reinforced earth works involves excavation to a suitable depth, placement of a compacted layer of granular material such as gravel or crushed rock, and possibly installation of a drainage system to prevent water from accumulating behind the wall.

In the UK, construction permits and approvals are often required for building and civil engineering work done on your property, although not always. This includes reinforced earth works.

The necessary permits required will vary depending on the scope and nature of the work. In general, some permits and approvals that may be required for reinforced earth works construction in the UK include:

• Planning permission: This is required for most types of construction projects, including reinforced earth works. Planning permission is typically granted by the local planning authority and ensures that the proposed development complies with local and national planning policies.
• Building Regulations approval: This is a separate approval process that ensures that the building work meets certain safety and environmental standards. Building Regulations approval is usually required for all new construction projects, as well as certain types of alterations or extensions.
• Environmental permits: Depending on the scale and location of the reinforced earth works, various environmental permits may be required. These may include permits related to pollution control, waste management, and other environmental regulations.

We’re highly experienced in dealing with permits for all types of construction work. If you choose DG Ritchie to carry out reinforced earth works on your property, we will help you navigate the required permits to ensure the project meets all legal specifications.

Reinforced earth works can be a suitable option for a range of properties, but it's important to assess your property's suitability due to the need for solid, flat foundations that is required for reinforced earth works

Some key factors to consider when evaluating whether reinforced earth works are right for your property include:

• Soil Conditions
• Slope - steep slopes or irregular terrain may require additional support or more complex engineering.
• Drainage - Proper drainage is critical for reinforced earth works to function effectively
• Cost: Reinforced earth works can be cost-effective compared to other retaining wall options, but the overall cost will depend on the specific design and engineering required for your property.
• Aesthetics: While reinforced earth works can be functional, they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option for your property. Consider the visual impact of the retaining wall and whether it aligns with your overall landscaping goals.

Reinforced earth works are extremely durable and long-lasting. When properly designed and constructed, reinforced earth structures can withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

Bare in mind however, the durability of your reinforced earth work project will depend on the materials used, the design and the construction work.

Maintenance is also an important aspect that can help extend the lifeline of your reinforced earth work structure.

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the long-term durability of reinforced earth works. This will include regular inspections, repairs, and upgrades to address any issues that may arise over time.

Reinforced earth works tend to be more environmentally friendly compared with other more traditional methods of construction.

However, there are still some environmental concerns to be aware of, these being:

• Land use changes: Reinforced earth works may require the clearing of vegetation and alteration of the natural landscape. This can lead to habitat loss and fragmentation, which can have negative impacts on local ecosystems and wildlife
• Soil erosion: Construction activities associated with reinforced earth works may cause soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby water bodies.
• Use of materials: The production of materials used in reinforced earth works, such as geotextiles and steel bars, may have negative environmental impacts, such as carbon emissions from production and transportation.
• Disposal of waste: Like all construction processes, waste materials will be generated. These need to be disposed of properly as improper disposal can lead to environmental pollution and harm to animals and humans.

Reinforced earth work construction is generally considered to be a cost-effective solution for retaining walls and other earthwork structures compared to traditional construction methods.

Of course, the final cost of reinforced earth works on your property will vary depending on the size of the project, complexity of the design, materials used and the project's unique specifications.