Drive wall is a term primarily used in construction and civil engineering, referring to a structure erected to secure and support a road, embankment, or other earthworks. Also known as a retaining wall or a bulkhead, a drive wall serves the purpose of preventing soil erosion, landslides, or collapses when there is a change in elevation or sloping terrain.
Typically made of concrete, steel, or a combination of both, drive walls are engineered to withstand the lateral pressure exerted by the soil they restrain. They are constructed by excavating the ground where the wall will be located, then laying a foundation or footer. This foundation is essential to provide stability and evenly distribute the weight of the wall. Once the foundation is set, the drive wall is built, layer by layer, with materials chosen for their strength and durability.
Drive walls often feature a slight inward tilt, called a batter, to enhance their stability and counterbalance the soil pressure. Additionally, they may include drainage systems to mitigate hydrostatic pressures caused by groundwater.
In addition to their functional purpose, drive walls can also be designed with aesthetic considerations in mind, serving as decorative elements in landscaped areas or urban settings. They can be found along highways, residential neighborhoods, commercial developments, and even in backyard gardens, providing crucial support and adding visual appeal to the surroundings.
