Dear Robin:
We have a retaining wall that is crumbling at the bottom and water seems to running through the wall and out of different areas. Can my husband just add concrete in between the joints to divert the water and secure the crumbling rocks? Sincerely, My Retaining wall is crumbling.
Dear Crumbling Retaining Wall:
If a retaining wall is designed properly and it is built per the design, it will not leak water from the stones rather the water will be diverting with drainage system as part of the design. How old is the wall? What is it made with? Stone retaining walls should last between 40 and 100 years or more. Wood retaining walls last around 40 years. Stone and concrete retaining walls last between 50 and 100 years. Brick retaining walls last at least 100 years. the crumbling walls is concerning if it is not aged. You may need to hire an experienced forensic engineer to evaluate the cause and origin of the changes and then ask him to design a repair or a new wall.
