The Ultimate CLF10GS Retaining Wall FAQ Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Our Most Popular Cantilever Wall System

From heights, lengths, and load capacities to installation tips and design options, we’ve answered the questions we get asked most about the CLF10GS cantilever retaining wall system. Whether you’re planning a new build, upgrading an existing site, or comparing solutions, you’ll find clear, practical answers here.

These FAQs cover structural design, foundations, delivery, customisation, sustainability, and more – all in one place.

Design, Layout & Customisation

What heights are available for CLF10GS units?

We offer 17 standard heights, ranging from 500mm to 4.5m, in 250mm increments. If you’ve got a specific design or level to match, we’ll help you find the closest fit, or cast to suit.

 

Can I mix and match heights in one wall?

Absolutely. It’s common to step heights along a retaining line, especially on sloped ground or where you’re forming ramps and staircases.

 

What unit lengths are available?

Our standard length is 2 m, but we also offer 1m and 4m units for low-level walls. That gives you layout flexibility without complicating the installation.

 

Can the walls follow curves or angles?

Yes, for gentle curves, we supply shorter 1m long units to create a faceted layout. For tighter angles, we offer precast corners at 90° and 45°, or we can cast custom angles to suit your site.

 

Can I have sloping tops or other bespoke options?

Certainly. Sloping tops, corner details, and textured or painted finishes are all available – just tell us what you want, and we’ll help bring it to life.

 

Can you help me choose the right wall for my project?

Of course, just give us the details about your site, loading, and layout, and we’ll suggest the most efficient and cost-effective setup.

Structural Design & Loadings

What surcharge can the CLF10GS handle?

Standard units are designed for retaining material with a density of 18 kN/m3 and a standard surcharge capacity of 10 kN/m2, suitable for light vehicle traffic. If you have higher loads from HGVs or large silage clamps, we’ll recommend the most suitable product, such as the DLF10GS or AGRI wall system.

 

Are the walls designed to Eurocode standards?

Yes. We design to EN 1990 (Basis), EN 1991 (Actions), EN 1992 (Concrete Structures), and EN 1997 (Geotechnics), as well as EN 15258 for retaining wall elements.

 

What’s the design life of the system?

Our standard design life is 50 years under normal exposure classes. If you need a longer lifespan, we can modify the reinforcement cover in our ELF system for up to 100 years.

Foundations & Ground Conditions

Do I need a concrete foundation?

Not always. If the ground is firm and the loadings are light, you can install it on a compacted base with a sand and cement blinding. For poor ground or high loads, a reinforced concrete foundation can be a better option.

 

Can the walls be installed on a slope?

Yes, the tongue-and-groove design helps align units even on gentle slopes. However, your foundation still needs to be level and well-compacted.

 

How much working space do I need behind the wall?

The amount of space required depends on the wall height, backfilled material, and access. If space is limited, we’ll help plan the layout with shorter or lighter units.

 

Can I build up behind the wall straight away?

Yes, once the units are in place, you can start backfilling immediately. There’s no need to wait for curing or fixings to set.

Delivery, Lifting & Installation

How are the units delivered?

Smaller units arrive palletised. Units up to 2.5 m tall are delivered upright – taller units are delivered lying on their side. We’ll confirm everything with your team before delivery.

 

How do I lift the units into place?

All units have DEHA pin anchors cast in, and we supply the relevant shackles as standard. You only need chains or slings that are suitable for the unit’s weight and size.

 

What plant will I need on site?

A telehandler or 360° excavator with lifting chains works well for most sites and unit weights. Larger units or longer reaches might need a crane for installation. 

 

How many people are needed for the installation?

A standard three-person crew can install up to 80m of wall per day with the right lifting equipment.

 

Do the walls need to be fixed down?

No, that’s one of the best design features of our systems – the weight, shape, and interlocking design mean you don’t need any bolts, bars, or grout in most cases. It’s a big time and money saver for our systems.

 

Can you install the wall for me?
Yes, our installation teams can install the units anywhere in the UK (subject to a minimum order size). If you’d like a supply-and-install quote, just let us know.

Detailing, Attachments & Modifications

Can I attach handrails to the walls?

Yes. We suggest using chemical anchors instead of mechanical anchors, as they place less stress on the concrete and help prevent cracking.

 

Do the joints need to be sealed?

Not usually. For retaining soil, dry joints are fine. If you’re managing liquids or fine material, we recommend sealing with a flexible joint filler like SIKA Pro3.

 

Can the walls be painted or rendered?
Absolutely. You can use masonry paint to achieve a smooth or textured finish, perfect for garden walls or architectural designs.

 

Can I drill into or cut the units on-site?

We don’t advise it, but if it’s unavoidable, please contact us first. Drilling or cutting can compromise structural integrity and release silica dust.

 

Do you supply access points or openings in the wall?

We don’t create openings in CLF units, but we can provide layout advice if you need pipe access, gates, or return walls.

Product Information & Certification

Are the walls CE marked or certified?

Yes. Our CLF units are CE marked and produced in line with EN 15258 and EN 13369, with full factory controls in place.

 

What are the manufacturing tolerances?

We manufacture to EN 13369 and EN 13670, with typical tolerances of ±5 mm for height and length, and tighter control on unit squareness.

 

What concrete grade do you use?

Our standard mix is C60/75 self-compacting concrete – strong, durable, and free-flowing for a smooth finish.

 

Are the units made sustainably?

Yes, we use reduced-carbon concrete, recycled water, and optimised reinforcement. All steel is placed only where structurally required.

 

Do you supply an O&M manual or data sheet?

Yes. You’ll get a full documentation pack including handling guidance, O&M manual, safety data, and lifting instructions.

Maintenance, Reuse & End-of-Life

Can the units be reused or relocated?

Yes, simply lift them out using the original anchor points. Ideal for temporary structures or future site modifications.

 

How do I repair minor damage?

Small chips or edge wear can be repaired using products like Larsen Precast Skim Coat. If you’re unsure, contact the team and we can recommend the best product.

 

Do the walls need any maintenance?

Not usually, just keep them clear of plant overgrowth and check for settlement. A quick inspection once a year is usually sufficient.

 

Can I recycle the units at the end of their life?

Yes, they can be crushed and used as hardcore. Concrete is 100% recyclable.

Buying, Specifying & Support

How quickly can I get the units?
We aim to keep most standard units in stock – delivery typically arrives within a week. Bespoke items take 2–4 weeks.

 

What’s the minimum order quantity?

We supply as few as one unit, but due to transport and offloading, most projects benefit from ordering 20+ units.

 

Can you help with tenders or drawings?

Yes, we provide outline CAD drawings, loading data, and calculation notes to support your specification process.

 

Do you have BIM models available?

Yes, but they’re only available on request. We can also provide CAD files and technical data for use in your design workflow.

 

How do I place an order or get a quote?

Just visit the Get a Quote page or give us a ring. We’ll respond to most quote requests within 24 hours.

 

Can I speak to someone for advice?

Always. Whether you’re at the design stage or on site, we’re here to help. Give us a call or drop us a message anytime.

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