What is the drainage cell behind a retaining wall? This question is so essential, especially for you who still confused about what are the right materials to place behind a retaining wall.

The retaining wall is a crucial design element for many residential and commercial projects. These things provide great support for the big planter beds and are quite appealing to the eye.

You must know that all retaining walls need a proper drainage system. It can make this wall sturdy and safe. Here is further information about the drainage cell and retaining wall. 

Drainage Cell
Drainage Cell

The Definition of Retaining Wall Drainage

This kind of drainage is important to build the proper retaining wall. The drainage system is usually built during the wall’s construction process. The aim is for sure to drain water which is absorbed by the ground behind that wall. 

The earth’s weight or gravel that is located behind this wall is known as an acting force. A retaining wall must withstand that thing. 

Furthermore, any water that is absorbed behind this wall gives more compound pressure. This pressure can cause bulging and shifting, up to total collapse. That is why; a passage for draining the water is important.

The right drainage system can make a wall safely withstand this expected load. You should learn about this drainage system, or let the professionals do it.

What is the Drainage Cell behind a Retaining Wall? 

The question is: what is the drainage cell behind a retaining wall? There are several types that you can use, and here are some of those variants.

1.     Backfill Aggregate

Behind a retaining wall, you will see a thick layer of dry drainage objects. This material separates the soil from the wall. This backfill can be made with crushed rock, stones, or gravel. 

Water will easily pass through this aggregate and go to the drainage pipe. Or, it can go out through the weep holes and stay away from your wall. 

2.     Geofabric Layer

It is a synthetic object that is made from polyester fibers. It is commonly applied in many civil engineering applications for filtering and drainage. This option can protect the backfill part from silt and soil entering.

We know that this silt and soil can prevent water stop from passing through this material. This geotextile sock can be also applied around your drainage pipe. 

3.     Drainage Pipes

This pipe must be installed at the base of your wall with perforations to keep water away. It is done from behind the wall, and then water will go out through the weep holes. 

To maximize the function, this pipe must extend the whole wall’s length. It must be vented at the common or regular intervals as well. 

4.     Weep Holes

These are the holes that funnel water out from the behind part of your wall. It can relieve the hydrostatic pressure. These holes can be only placed at the base of your wall is small.

Meanwhile, the huge one may need weep holes that have a grid-like structure. It usually has many small weep holes that come out through your wall.

So, what is the drainage cell behind a retaining wall? The series above is a good recommendation if you want to create the best drainage system for a retaining wall.

For more information about Drainage Cell please contact: Whatsapp/Mobile Phone: +62 811 9151 338 (Ms. Anna) or Email :info@urbanplastic.id