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Stabilisure
A Revolution in Retaining Wall Systems
< 1 minute read
In the constantly evolving landscape of construction and civil engineering, the quest for innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions is never-ending. Among the many advancements, Stabilisure, an engineered wall system using geo pin reinforcement for stability, stands out as a pioneering approach, redefining the standards of retaining wall construction.
What are Engineered Wall Systems?
If your project requires a segmental retaining wall taller than 1 metre you’ll need to employ an Engineered Wall System to ensure the structural integrity of your design. Unlike Gravity Wall Systems that rely on the weight and setback of the block for stability, Engineered Wall Systems require some form of soil reinforcement to support the wall. This added strength allows for the construction of taller retaining walls.
At AG we recommend three types of Engineered Wall Systems, that are compatible with our Landmark, Vertica®, Diamond® and Bayfield® walling ranges.
System A
Geosynthetic Reinforcement
Uses layers of Geosynthetic Reinforcement and drainage aggregate for stability.
System B
Anchorplex™
Uses self-compacting structural backfill for stability.
System C
Stabilisure
Uses geo pins/micro soil nails for stability.
Learn more about our recommended Engineered Wall Systems in our Segmental Retaining Walls Specification guide.
Each system offers its own benefits.
However, with planning legislation tightening in light of the UK’s mission to hit Net Zero by 2050 and project budgets being squeezed with soaring material and labour costs, System C – Stabilisure offers a key number of advantages in comparison to Systems A & B. Architects, specifiers, housing developers and contractors should take into consideration when specifying a segmental retaining wall on their next project.
The Stabilisure Advantage
By stabilising in-situ soil, Stabilisure minimises the need for extensive excavation and expensive backfill, setting it apart from other engineered wall methods. These key aspects not only save time and money but also benefit the site’s surrounding environment and biodiversity. The system can also be used in a wide variety of applications including confined spaces, helping to navigate difficult sites and maximise valuable development space. When paired with blocks from our Vertica® walling range, the system can achieve a near vertical appearance and construct retaining walls virtually unlimited in height.
Reduced Fuel Consumption + CO2 Emissions
Transportation to and from the site, as well as during the system’s installation, is greatly reduced because of minimal soil excavation and backfill requirements, especially when compared to Systems A & B. These savings, both in costs and CO2 emissions, are particularly crucial given the rising fuel costs, the recent ban on rebated red diesel in the construction sector, and the increasing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints in the industry.
Useful Link: Reform of red diesel and other rebated fuels entitlement
Reduced Impact on the Local Community
By minimising the transportation of materials to and from site, traffic congestion is reduced, mitigating disruption in surrounding areas. Highlighting this diminished impact on the local community can be beneficial during the planning application process with local councils, businesses and residents.
Reduced Engineered Fill Costs
Other engineered wall systems often demand substantial volumes of engineered fill to replace excavated soil for stability and soil erosion prevention. This backfill is usually a higher grade aggregate that is imported. Opting for Stabilisure not only reduces granular fill costs but also helps to minimise a project’s carbon footprint by mitigating the inclusion of internationally sourced materials.
Reduced Labour Costs
Labour costs are minimised during the construction process in comparison to other methods, as there is a reduced need for machinery operators and lorry drivers. In addition, the system can be rapidly installed also helping to minimise general labourer costs. Excavating soil on site often means navigating through expansive tree roots and rocky terrain, which can be difficult to remove and can substantially hinder progress. Stabilisure minimises these obstacles, helping to keep project timelines on schedule and on budget.
Better, Safer + Faster Construction
Stabilisure offers significant advantages that make construction better, safer and faster. The geo pins used during installation can be pullout tested afterwards to confirm they meet the required design strength, providing added assurance and quality control. Because the system requires less excavation and causes minimal ground disturbance, it helps reduce the risk of global failure compared to other engineered wall systems. This means projects can progress more efficiently while maintaining the highest safety and reliability standards.
Maximises Development Space
Stabilisure is ideal for commercial projects where every inch of space is crucial. By minimising excavation and incorporating Vertica® walling, the steepest, pin less system in the market, a development’s usable land can be maximised, especially on split level sites. Vertica’s innovative design offers a near-vertical 4 degree set back whilst its trapezoidal shape (wide face, narrow back), is a perfect fit for geo pins to slot in without any additional attachments.
Conserves Native Habitats + Biodiversity
Trees and soil play a vital role in wildlife habitats, as well as in carbon dioxide sequestration. Consequently, legislation governing land use such as Conservation Areas and Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) have become more prevalent. While these regulations are essential for mitigating the environmental impact of urban development, they can pose challenges during planning. Stabilisure helps to preserve the surrounding environment due to its minimal excavation requirements, benefiting a project’s overall environmental footprint and aiding in the planning approval process.
Useful Links: Historic England | Tree Preservation Orders
As the industry continues to embrace sustainable and efficient practices, Stabilisure stands at the forefront, promising a future where construction not only meets the immediate needs of projects but does so in a way that is sustainable, cost-effective, and aligned with the evolving demands of our time.
Contact one of our expert consultants for more information.
ANCHOR DIAMOND℠ Wall Estimator Tool
Anchor Wall Estimator is a free online tool enabling you to design your own segmental retaining wall up to 3.6 meters.
AnchorWall®
Software
AnchorWall® Software allows you to gauge the feasibility of the project and estimate material quantities from a very early stage.
Vertica®
Mortarless / pinless segmental retaining walls for sloping hillsides.
Segmental Retaining Walls
AG Anchor: walls without boundaries.