Challenge

Matvey Construction’s design technician was on site to evaluate this homeowner’s concerns of a bowing retaining wall located on a hillside home on Mercer Island, WA. It was determined that drainage issues contributed to the retaining walls settlement issues.

Solution

Geofoam was used behind the retaining wall to reduce lateral pressure. This lightweight fill material takes the load off the wall because Geofoam is only 4 lbs per cubic foot compared to the soil on-site, which was 80 lbs per foot. By using this material, it will help maintain the wall repair and extend the life of the repair. Traditional earth materials are heavy and can cause settlement, instability, or lateral pressures. The homeowner was very happy that we're able to take care of the issue and finish the work on time.

Uncut Geofoam

This is an uncut block of Geofoam.

Cut Geofoam

Our crew cut the foam to size to prepare it for the site.

Installed Geofoam

We installed the foam to relieve some of the pressure on the wall.

Completed Install

Job done!