The Ultimate DLF10GS Retaining Wall FAQ Guide
The Heavy-Duty Cantilever Wall - All Your Questions Answered
Do you need a retaining wall system that can handle heavy loads? The DLF10GS is our strongest L-shaped precast wall, designed for a surcharge capacity of up to 25 kN/m².
From HGV yards and flood defences to bund walls and busy roads, this system provides strength without over-engineering. Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about design, installation, finishes, foundations, and maintenance – so you can specify with confidence.
Design, Layout & Customisation
What makes the DLF10GS different from the CLF10GS?
It has the same overall geometry as the CLF but with additional reinforcement to handle a surcharge capacity of up to 25 kN/m². This makes it the preferred option for HGV yards, flood defences, bund walls, and other high-load applications.
What heights are available?
We offer 17 standard heights, from 0.5 m to 4.5 m, in 250 mm increments. Corner units are available for heights.
Can I choose a heeled or non-heeled version?
Yes. A heel extends the base on one side of the wall, spreading the load over a larger area. This is useful for sites with lower bearing capacity or where you want to reduce foundation depth. The heel can face either the retained or exposed side, depending on the application.
What unit lengths are available?
Standard length is 2m. We also supply 1m units for tighter spaces and 4m units for low-level walls, helping reduce joints and lifts.
Can the walls follow curves or changes in angle?
Yes. Gentle curves can be formed by using shorter units in a faceted layout. For sharp angles, we provide 90° and 45° precast corners, as well as custom angles on request.
Are decorative or architectural finishes available?
Yes. The DLF is compatible with our StoneboxTM system – a gabion-style facing filled with stone for a more natural look. We can also supply textured mould finishes or recommend suitable masonry paints for a rendered appearance.
Structural Design & Loadings
What surcharge can the DLF10GS handle?
The standard design accommodates up to 25 kN/m², suitable for HGV loading areas, retained roads, and large-scale storage bays.
Are the walls Eurocode compliant?
Yes. We design to EN 1990, EN 1991, EN 1992, EN 1997, and EN 15258, with CE marking to EN 15258.
What’s the design life?
Standard design life is 50 years under normal exposure classes (XC4, XD1, XS1, XF3). If you need longer, we can look at bespoke engineering solutions.
Foundations & Ground Conditions
Do I always need a concrete foundation?
Not necessarily. On good ground, you can install on a compacted base with a sand/cement blinding. For heavy loads, poor ground, or heeled walls, a reinforced concrete base may be recommended.
Can DLF walls be installed on a slope?
Yes, as long as the foundation is level and stable. The tongue‑and‑groove joint system helps with alignment even on gently sloping ground.
When should I use a heeled wall?
If the ground bearing capacity is low, the heel helps distribute the load and reduce settlement. It can also be useful where foundation depth is limited.
Delivery, Lifting & Installation
How are DLF units delivered?
Units up to 2.5m are delivered upright. Taller units are transported on their side. We confirm delivery arrangements in advance to make sure your site is ready.
What lifting equipment is needed?
All units have DEHA pin anchors cast in, with matching shackles supplied. A telehandler or excavator works for most sizes – taller units or longer reach lifts may require a crane.
How many people are needed for installation?
A three-person crew can usually install up to 80 meters per day with the right equipment.
Do the walls need fixings?
No. The weight, shape, and interlocking design mean you don’t need bolts, bars, or grout for most installations.
Detailing, Attachments & Modifications
Can I attach handrails to the wall?
Yes, chemical anchors are recommended to avoid cracking and maintain structural integrity.
Do the joints need sealing?
Not for soil retention. For liquid containment, bunds, or flood defences, we recommend a flexible joint sealant like SIKA Pro3.
Can the walls be painted or rendered?
Yes. Smooth or textured masonry paints work well for a decorative finish.
Is the DLF compatible with the Stonebox system?
Yes, you can add the Stonebox for a decorative or natural stone appearance.
Product Information & Certification
Are the walls CE marked?
Yes, CE marked to EN 15258 and manufactured under factory production control.
What tolerances do you work to?
± 5 mm for height and length, with tight squareness control.
What’s the cover to reinforcement?
Minimum 30mm cover, designed for exposure classes XC4, XD1, XS1, and XF3.
What concrete mix is used?
C60/75 self-compacting concrete with reduced‑cement content for lower carbon impact.
Maintenance, Reuse & End-of-Life
Do DLF walls need maintenance?
Minimal, annual visual checks for settlement, cracks or damage are usually enough.
Can they be reused or relocated?
Yes. They can be lifted and reinstalled elsewhere, using the original lifting points.
Are they recyclable?
Yes. At the end of life, the concrete can be crushed for use as hardcore.
Buying, Specifying & Support
What’s the average lead time?
Standard sizes can often be delivered within two weeks. Bespoke units or finishes take 4-6 weeks.
Can you help with design and specification?
Absolutely, we can provide CAD drawings, loading information, and calculation notes.
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.
