Best Practices for Zero Retaining Wall Failures - Slope Above Seismically Loaded Walls

Slopes above a wall are especially important to consider when dealing with a seismic loading applied to the wall.  The same acceleration coefficient applied to the wall must also be applied to the stability calculations of the slope.

In this scenario it is recommended that the slope above be minimized by regrading or increasing the height of the wall.

Additional geogrid layers are often used in the slope as well to add stability. (ref. BP, Chapter 11.2)

Allan Block is working to achieve our industry initiative of Zero Wall Failures. With our Best Practices Manual and experience in the industry we are trying to expand the knowledge base for the design of segmental retaining walls (SRW's) by communicating and educating the professionals in the industry.  To see the full Best Practices Manual, visit allanblock.com to download today and keep an eye out for more industry Best Practice recommendations here.