One of the most common problems people face when it comes to a Besser block retaining wall is not knowing the pros and cons of this type of wall.
This can often lead to making a decision that is not in the best interest of their property. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using Besser blocks for a retaining wall so that you can make an informed decision.
What is a Besser Block Retaining Wall?
A Besser block wall is a type of wall made from concrete blocks that have a hollow core. These blocks are often called besser blocks.
Reinforced steel is placed vertically and horizontally inside the block wall as it is being built. The reinforcing steel also connects the wall to the reinforced concrete footing. The wall is then filled with concrete at a strength determined by an engineer.
For more information on concrete blocks you can go to our concrete block retaining wall page.
Pros of a Besser Block Retaining Wall
There are many advantages to a Besser block retaining wall. One of the main pros is that they are very strong and durable. They can last for many years with little to no maintenance required.
Besser block retaining walls are also great for tight areas because they do not require a lot of space to build. Additionally, they are great for vertical applications where a plumb wall is required.
Strength and Durability
Besser block retaining walls are very strong and durable. They can last for decades with little to no maintenance required.
The strength is obtained from the reinforced concrete footing and wall. The Besser blocks themselves are the formwork for the reinforced concrete.
Besser Blocks Are Excellent for Tight Spaces
Another advantage of besser blocks is that they don’t require a lot of space to build. The 390 x 190 x 190mm blocks are layed individually and then filled with reinforced concrete.
There is no need for large machinery or excavating a large area.
This makes them ideal for boundary walls close to structures.
Besser Blocks Are Ideal for Vertical Applications
Another advantage of besser blocks is that they are perfect for vertical applications. This is because the wall should be built plumb (vertically straight).
This makes them ideal for retaining close to structures or as part of the structure.
Besser Block Retaining Walls Require Little Maintenance
Once a Besser block retaining wall is built, it requires little to no maintenance. The wall does not need to be painted or sealed and is not susceptible to termites, rust or rot.
The wall can be rendered, painted or cladded with another material. This is what requires maintaining over the years.
Block walls can be Finished with most Materials
The following finishes can be obtained by first using a Besser block retaining wall as the structure
- coloured renders
- render and paint
- painted finish
- tiles
- various stone finishes adhered to the face of the wall
- cladded with feature timbers such as cedar, jarrah etc.
This gives you the ability to create a finish that matches your property’s style.
No water penetration
To completely stop water and moisture from penetrating the wall a waterproof barrier can be applied to the back of the wall including the wall to footing joint. This is allowed to dry and a polystyrene sheet often added to stop any damage to the waterproof membrane whilst adding the drainage layer.
These types of walls are perfect for residential or commercial properties where the wall can then become part of the building ie a garage or basement.
Can be used as part of another Structure
The Besser block wall can be used as part of another structure. An example is a wall to a residential or commercial property, or to form the footing to a shed slab or carport structure on a slope.
Cons of a Besser Block Retaining Wall
Besser block retaining walls do have some disadvantages when compared to other types of walls. Here are the most common.
They can be Expensive
Besser block retaining walls can be expensive when compared to timber, concrete sleeper or gabion walls. This is because they require more materials and labour to construct.
Not as Aesthetically Pleasing as some other Types of Retaining Walls
A block wall on its own looks cheap, even though they are not. They have an “industrial” feel about them that can be painted but can be made to look like a million dollars if you finish them as discussed earlier, with render, stone, etc.
Blocklayers are usually Required
As soon as trades need to be involved, the cost goes up. There is usually a wait time involved with trades also and you know the old saying “times money”.
Curved or Tapered Walls are Difficult
Block walls are not as easy to build when you need a curved or tapered wall. They can be built and often look great when they are rendered.
Block Walls require a Concrete Footing
All block walls require a concrete footing to spread the weight of the wall and stop it from toppling over. This is an extra cost when compared to some other types of retaining walls.
Our Conclusion for Besser Block Retaining Walls
In conclusion, Besser block retaining walls have many benefits, including being strong and durable, relatively easy to install, requiring little maintenance, and being able to be finished with most materials.
However, they can also be expensive, and may not be as aesthetically pleasing on their own as some other types of retaining walls.
When deciding whether to use a Besser block retaining wall, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide what will work best for your needs.
For more information on concrete block retaining walls we have a full page for you by using the link provided.
To find a contractor or supplier in your area go to your areas page where we have all the info you require including council regs, suppliers and contractors.
