This article summarises the common foundation requirements for an Stonebloc retaining wall to assist customers with planning and pricing.
The foundation plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of any structure. It is influenced by various factors, including the diverse ground conditions found across the country. Due to this variability, it is not feasible to provide standardised foundation designs. This article aims to offer general guidance for planning and pricing purposes. However, it is important to note that the information provided here should not be considered a substitute for a specific engineering design prepared by a qualified engineer. Please be aware that Envirocon does not engage in foundation design work.
Stonebloc Foundation Requirements
- Stonebloc was designed for speed and productivity, and this includes the foundation requirements.
- The exact foundation requirements will be determined by a geotechnical engineer based on the specific geotechnical parameters of the site.
- However, due to NZ engineering standards around the friction and sliding interaction of pre-cast concrete on concrete, it is not common to use a concrete foundation for Stonebloc.
- It is most common to place Stonebloc on a compacted gravel foundation.
- In good ground conditions, this means a layer of gravel between 50-100mm thick.
- In more expansive ground conditions, the foundation may need to be thicker, typically between 300-600mm.
- Typically, fine gravel, such as builders mix, sand, or pap7, is used for the levelling layer. For deeper compact foundations, GAP60 or similar is used.
- It is important to have consideration for the width of the base block. The foundation should extend at least 150mm beyond the base of the wall on all sides to provide adequate support for the wall system. This means when an 800 Base or 1200 Base block is being used on the bottom layer of the wall, the foundation can extend to 1500mm wide.