Reinforced Earth Construction Quick Guide

MSE Retaining Wall Construction Guide

Note: This is an abbreviated guide (pdf version) to constructing a Reinforced Earth® MSE retaining wall with precast concrete facing panels. Refer to our construction manuals for complete procedure, handling of materials and recommended safety precautions.

Preparing the bottom course of panels:

• Form and pour leveling pad.
• Set bottom panels.
  • Batter the panels as required.
  • Drive wedges to hold batter.
  • Brace the bottom panels.
• Apply adhesive and filter fabric.

Bottom row of soil reinforcements:

• Spread and compact select backfill (in lifts) to 2″ above the first level of tie strips on the back face of panels.
• Connect the soil reinforcements to the tie strips on the back face of the panels.

Subsequent rows of soil reinforcements (repeat until top course of panels is installed and backfilled).

• Spread and compact select backfill (in lifts) to 2″ above the next level of tie strips on the back face of panels.
• Connect the soil reinforcements to the tie strips on the back face of the panels.
• When needed, install the next course of panels:
  • Batter the panels as required.
  • Drive wedges to hold the batter.
  • Shoulder clamp new panels to the adjacent secured panels.
• Apply adhesive and filter fabric to the new panels.
• Install fall protection as required.

Prepare the top wall grading and install the wall top out as required: