CONSTRUCTION OF A RETAINING WALL
MAIN FEATURES
■ Outdoor exposure
■ Underground exposure
■ Exposure to rainwater
■ High level of saturation
The elements of a retaining wall that are in contact with the ground are generally exposed to a high level of saturation. For this type of application, standard CSA A 179-14 recommends using a Type S Mortar, at a minimum.
One of the roles of mortar is to effectively manage rainwater flowing over the facing. Since our Canadian climate involves numerous freezing and thawing cycles, it is important that minimal water remain in the facing when the first freezing cycles occur.
To this end, mortars containing lime have long proven effectiveness. Furthermore, Canadian standard CSA A 179-14 indicates that a mortar rich in lime will likely resist water penetration better and reduce cracking (CSA A 179-14, pg. 44).
TIP
Since it takes less energy to manufacture lime than Portland Cement, it is always preferred from an environmental standpoint to use a lime mortar.
Recommendations
TYPE OF MORTAR RECOMMENDED: TYPE S
■ Mortar recommended: King® 2-1-9 or King® Block
