Common warning signs of a failing retaining wall include leaning or bulging, new or widening cracks, soil or water seeping through the face, and ground that is sinking or separating near the wall. If you notice any of these, keep people away from the wall and have it evaluated by a qualified professional rather than trying to judge its safety yourself.
Retaining walls hold back soil, and soil can be very heavy, especially when it is wet. A wall that is starting to fail may change slowly, which is why it helps to know what to watch for.
Changes in the Wall Itself
Look at the face and shape of the wall from a safe distance. Signs that deserve attention include:
- the wall leaning outward or looking tilted,
- a bulge or bow in the middle of the wall,
- cracks that are new or seem to be getting larger,
- blocks, stones or sections shifting out of line, and
- pieces breaking off or falling from the wall.
Not every crack means a wall is failing. Some surface cracks are cosmetic. But only a qualified person who sees the wall in person can tell the difference.
Changes in the Soil and Water Around It
The ground near a retaining wall can give clues too. Watch for soil washing out through joints or at the base, water seeping through the face of the wall, and soggy ground that stays wet long after rain. Above the wall, look for sinking soil, gaps opening behind the wall or fences and walkways that are starting to tilt.
In the Burlington area, heavy rain and clay-rich soils can put extra pressure on walls. Water that can’t drain away is one of the most common reasons walls struggle.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
A retaining wall can fail suddenly, even after months of slow change. A collapse can damage property and hurt people nearby. That’s why it’s wise to act early when you see warning signs.
Until the wall is evaluated, keep children, pets and vehicles away from both the top and bottom of the wall. Don’t pile soil, firewood or heavy items near it, and don’t try to dig around it or prop it up yourself.
Getting the Wall Evaluated
A qualified contractor can look at the wall and the conditions around it and explain what they see. For taller walls, walls near buildings or driveways, or walls showing serious movement, a structural or geotechnical engineer may need to be involved. Local permit rules may also apply to repairs or replacement, so it’s worth checking with the city or county.
Taking photos over time can help a professional understand how the wall has changed. Note the dates and any heavy storms.
Our concrete retaining wall services include looking at existing walls and discussing repair or replacement options. If you’ve noticed warning signs on a Burlington property, contact us to schedule an evaluation.
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