Breast Wall – Design, Uses, And Advantages

What Is Breast Wall?

Breast wall is a structure designed to support the face of a natural earth bank, preventing soil erosion caused by harsh weather conditions on sloped embankments.

It is a low height wall that supports the face of a natural bank of earth. It is constructed using stone or brick, typically at a slight angle to resist the force of the earth. Breast walls are commonly used to stabilize slopes along roads or railways, create terraces in gardens or vineyards, prevent erosion, provide flood barriers, and improve the appearance of a landscape.

Breast walls have several notable features. They are usually a few feet tall but can be built taller as needed. The materials used for their construction include stone, brick, concrete, wood, or other suitable options. During the building process, breast walls are angled between 10 and 15 degrees relative to the ground, which enhances their stability.

There are several advantages associated with breast walls. They are cost-effective, making them a budget-friendly option for slope stabilization and landscape improvement. Breast walls are easy to construct, suitable for both professionals and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Once built, they require relatively low maintenance. Moreover, breast walls can be designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape or serve as eye-catching focal points.

They are not as strong as other types of retaining walls such as gravity walls or cantilever walls. Heavy rains or flooding can damage breast walls if they are not properly constructed. Breast walls may not be suitable for supporting very steep slopes and may need reinforcement using materials like concrete or steel.

Design Considerations For Breast Wall

1. The earth surcharges require a broader base for the breast wall.
2. The breast wall must not exceed a height of three meters to reduce the risk of sliding and toppling.
3. Several variables influence the design of a breast wall, including the minimum required wall height, the strength of the supporting structure, and the slope of the excavation.
4. We need to frequently construct weep apertures to reduce saturated soil tension at the barrier.
5. The ground pressure or thrusting is expected to exert pressure parallel to the breast wall.

Difference Between Breast Wall And Retaining Wall

Check out all the differences between breast wall and retaining wall.

Feature	Breast Wall	Retaining Wall
Purpose	To retain a natural slope like hills	To retain an artificial slope like building structures
Height	Typically less than 4 feet	Can be any height
Materials	Brick, stone, concrete, timber	Concrete, stone, brick, gabions, steel, timber
Design	Simple, gravity-based design	More complex, engineered design
Cost	Less expensive	More expensive
Maintenance	Low-maintenance	Requires more maintenance
Lifespan	Longer lifespan	Shorter lifespan
Applications	Residential, commercial, industrial	Residential, commercial, industrial, infrastructure
Benefits	Provides safety, security, and stability	Provides safety, security, stability, and functionality
Drawbacks	Not as effective at retaining large slopes	More expensive, requires more maintenance, and is not as aesthetically pleasing as a breast wall

Advantages Of Breast Wall

1. Breast walls effectively stabilize and resist lateral earth pressure.
2. They retain soil and prevent soil erosion efficiently.
3. Breast walls offer cost-effectiveness compared to other types of retaining walls due to their simple design and construction.
4. They utilize durable materials like concrete or reinforced masonry, ensuring long-term durability.
5. Breast walls can accommodate various site conditions and requirements through their adaptable design and construction.
6. Construction of breast walls is relatively quick, reducing project time and costs.
7. They enhance the visual appearance of the surrounding area with different design options.
8. Breast walls provide flexibility, allowing for construction with different heights and lengths according to project needs.
9. They can be designed to withstand hydrostatic pressure from water, making them suitable for waterfront areas or flood-prone areas.
10. Once constructed, breast walls require minimal maintenance, resulting in lower long-term costs.

Disadvantages Of Breast Wall

1. Breast walls have limitations in height, which may make them unsuitable for very tall retaining wall requirements.
2. They are more applicable to smaller-scale projects and may not be suitable for large-scale applications.
3. Inadequate drainage behind the breast wall can cause water buildup, leading to hydrostatic pressure and potential structural problems.
4. Designing breast walls for specific soil conditions and loads can be more challenging compared to other retaining wall types.
5. The feasibility of using breast walls may be affected by the availability of suitable materials in different regions.

Uses Of Breast Wall

1. Breast walls help support the soil when we dig for new buildings. They can also protect soil from washing away.
2. Breast walls make flat spaces on sloping ground. We can use them to build paths or patios.
3. Breast walls keep water in ponds or other water places. This makes the area look more natural and gives animals a home.
4. Breast walls keep us safe in places where we might fall. They can line the edge of a cliff or go around a swimming pool.
5. Breast walls make landscapes interesting. They can be a special spot or break up big areas.
6. Breast walls give us privacy in our backyard. They make us feel safe and closed off.
7. Breast walls make less noise from roads or other loud things. They soak up sound and block it.
8. Breast walls clean the air by catching dirt and bad stuff in it. They also slow down wind, which helps clean the air.
9. Breast walls make shade in our backyard. They keep the ground cool and make the area feel nice.
10. Breast walls invite animals to come and live with us. They give animals homes, food, and water.

Faqs