Retaining wall in corten steel

In this blog, we will focus on corten steel retaining walls and their installation.

Retaining walls made of corten steel are a popular and stylish way to create terrain contours and hold soil in place in the garden. Corten steel is a material known for its rust-colored surface and resistance to weather and wind. It is also an environmentally friendly material, as it can be recycled and reused.

The establishment of a corten steel retaining wall can be a relatively simple process, but it still requires planning and care. Here are some things to be aware of that can help you establish a corten steel retaining wall in your garden:

Assembly of retaining wall:

The retaining wall system comes in elements up to 3 meters in length. They are fastened together with included bolt sets and typically weigh no more than two people can lift them into place. The retaining wall is made of folded 3mm corten steel for a maximum height of 60 cm. For a maximum height of 80 cm, the retaining wall will be made of 5 mm thickness.

Underlying surface:

The retaining wall elements are placed on a stable and frost-free base of stabilizing gravel or similar. The depth of the base should be 30-90 cm depending on soil conditions. Consult your contractor regarding soil conditions and construction.

Side securing:

The retaining wall is fastened to the base using holes in the bottom to secure it laterally. This can be done directly by point casting the included casting spikes or with expansion bolts in suitable base material. Lateral stabilization can alternatively be achieved by placing the retaining wall 10% of its height below level in compressed stabilizing gravel.

Drainage:

The retaining wall system is prepared for drainage on the inside of the retaining wall. Consult your contractor regarding drainage. It is prepared for a drainage hose. It is important to ensure good drainage for runoff. Corten steel will have a shortened lifespan if constantly under water. We recommend foundation drainage plate on the inside of the wall.

Backmolding:

If necessary, backcasting can be done on the inside of the retaining wall.

The bent edges provide a beautiful finish, straight joints, and the highest strength, making them perfect for creating horizontal levels in gardens with slopes or level differences. They can be used in parks, parking lots, driveways, and terraces where there is soil pressure and level differences.

We recommend using cast-in-place concrete spikes or concrete anchors. We recommend using drainage mat on the inside. Rear casting may be necessary. 

Find your retaining wall at 40 cm height here

Find your retaining wall at 60 cm height here

Find your retaining wall at 80 cm height here 

Why choose corten steel

Retaining walls in the garden can be a valuable addition to your outdoor space. They provide visual interest while also serving a functional purpose such as supporting flower beds, defining spaces, and maintaining a slope. But with so many materials to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which material is best for your retaining walls. Here's why corten steel may be the perfect choice:

1. Unique characteristics: Corten steel has a unique patina that changes color over time and forms a protective oxidation on the surface. This gives the retaining walls a rustic and natural appearance that complements the outdoor atmosphere
2. Durability: Corten steel is a strong material that can withstand the weather and is resistant to damage. This means you can enjoy your retaining walls for many years to come.
3. Low maintenance: Corten steel requires very little maintenance and can leave your garden maintenance-free for years.
4. Environmentally sustainable: Corten steel is an environmentally friendly choice because it is recyclable and can be used over and over again.
5. Custom design options: Corten steel can be shaped into any design you desire, allowing you to create unique and interesting retaining walls for your garden.

Remember that retaining walls are a long-term investment, so it's important to choose the material that will last the longest and give you the look you desire. Corten steel may be the perfect choice for you if you want a strong, durable, and unique solution for your garden retaining walls.

Steel retaining walls have several advantages over other materials. Some of their key properties include:

• Durability: Steel retaining walls are known for their durability and resistance to weather. They can withstand strong winds, rain, and sunlight without being damaged.
• Rustic appearance: Steel is a naturally rust-colored material, which gives the retaining wall a natural and rustic appearance. As the steel wall ages, the rust-colored surface will become more prominent and give the wall a more distinctive appearance.
• Flexibility: Steel retaining walls are very flexible in design and can be adapted to different landscapes. They can be built in various shapes and sizes and can be customized to accommodate different heights and slopes.
• Easy installation: Installing steel retaining walls is relatively simple and does not require much time and labor. The material is lightweight and can be easily transported and installed on site.

Pitfalls with support walls in steel

The garden is a wonderful place to spend time, but few of us have a completely flat plot, which can result in the need for a retaining wall to replace or hold back a slope. Just as you may want a raised bed to create fun spaces in your garden, a wall can be a great solution for this.

When building a retaining wall in the garden, earth pressure is logically the greatest threat to its durability. If you are not sure how to build a wall with care and weight, it is best to use a professional.

When establishing a retaining wall in corten steel, there are several pitfalls and challenges to be aware of:

1. Corrosion: Corten steel is known for its rust-colored surface, but this is due to a controlled rusting process that protects the steel from further corrosion. However, if the wall is exposed to water for extended periods of time, it can lead to an exacerbation of the corrosion process, which can cause damage and weaken the steel.
2. Strength: The retaining wall must have sufficient strength to withstand earth pressure, so it is important to ensure that the foundation and structure are correctly dimensioned and executed.
3. Drainage: Proper drainage is important to prevent water from collecting behind the retaining wall and putting pressure on the structure. Therefore, it is important to ensure good drainage behind the wall.
4. Construction: The retaining wall must be built in accordance with local building codes and regulations. It may also be necessary to obtain permits from authorities before construction can begin.
5. Aesthetics: Corten steel has a unique rust-colored surface that can create a beautiful visual expression. But it is important to consider whether this expression fits the surrounding environment and building style, and whether it is a durable solution in terms of the desired aesthetic qualities over time.

These are some of the most important pitfalls and challenges to consider when planning and constructing a retaining wall in corten steel. It may be necessary to collaborate with an experienced contractor who has expertise in the establishment of corten steel walls.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at info@byjema.com.