15/08/2026
HOUSE CHEUNG โ ERF 13014 | ESTUARY HEIGHTS
Another substantial project taking shape โ from deep foundations and major retaining works to the final paving and landscaping framework.
We commenced the first phase in February with the construction of the main retaining wall. At approximately 4.5 m high from the top of the concrete foundation, this required careful preparation from the ground up.
Suitable founding material was only reached approximately 1.2 m below ground level. The excavation was therefore rebuilt with a 200 mm compacted SSG/G7 layer, followed by the concrete foundation and retaining blocks. A subsoil drainage system was installed directly behind the foundation blocks on top of the concrete.
To reinforce and stabilise the retained material, RockPC 50/50 geogrid was incorporated into the backfill. The initial reinforcement extended approximately 5 m behind the wall, with the lengths progressively reduced as the wall approached the level of the swimming pool and the available distance between the pool structure and retaining wall decreased.
Rather than leaving the full 4.5 m wall exposed, excess suitable material was compacted against the lower slope. This reduced the visible height of the wall, softened its appearance and created a much more usable area for future landscaping.
PHASE 2 โ RETAINING, STEPS & PAVING
The second phase included additional retaining walls and precast concrete steps, creating the levels and framework required for the paving.
The paving construction consisted of a 150 mm compacted SSG subbase, followed by approximately 30 mm crusher-run screed. 200 ร 150 mm Bosun paving bricks were then laid in a staggered pattern.
All paving edges were secured with concrete benching and allowed to cure before the paving was finally grouted with a sand-and-cement mixture.
A project like this demonstrates why the work you eventually see above ground depends so heavily on the work that is done below ground.
Good retaining work starts with the foundation. Good paving starts with the subbase. Build it properly from the bottom up.
