Case Studies
Failing Retaining Wall Supported with Ram Jack Tieback System
Heredia Wal-Mart | Tiebacks Straighten Leaning Wall
San José, CR
Wal-Mart has long extended past the borders of the US and remains a budget-
conscious shopping staple even in many remote countries. Located just
north of the capitol city of San José, Costa Rica, the newly built
Heredia Wal-Mart is one such establishment, providing for the shopping
needs of both locals and tourists alike.
Situation
Built aside an existing retaining wall that separated the Heredia Wal-Mart
from its neighbors, the excavation process during construction resulted
in soil pile-up against the wall, causing it to lean toward the adjacent
property. Complicating the situation was a large water tank near the wall
that would need to be avoided during any work. In addition, the concrete
used to build the wall was sub-par quality and limited in strength, likely
due to being hand-batched many years ago. Temporary shoring beams were
installed immediately to ensure the safety of the work crew during any
and all construction.
Proposed Solution
Ram Jack Centro America proposed excavating the soil near the wall, installing
tiebacks through the existing columns supporting the wall, and installing
new construction brackets so further tiebacks could be fastened. The tiebacks
would both straighten the leaning wall and improve its structural integrity.
Outcome
Using a core drill to bore holes through the columns and a jack-hammer
to chew through needed sections of the wall, Ram Jack Centro America set
itself up for success. Once work started, it became clear that the structural
integrity of the wall would not allow it to be moved. Instead of straightening
it, Ram Jack Centro America decided to stabilize it in place. When finished,
ten piles were installed to an average depth of 24 ft., and numerous tiebacks
were installed to support the wall, providing the structural support needed
to restore stability. The contractor and engineer were more than pleased
with the results. In fact, the contractor has used Ram Jack Centro America
for two subsequent jobs!
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