Engineering and Construction

In order to calculate the foundation bearing pressure, the first step is to sum the vertical loads, such as the wall and footing weights. The vertical loads can be represented by a single resultant vertical force, per linear foot or meter of wall length, which is offset by a distance from the toe of the retaining wall foundation. This can then be converted to a pressure distribution as shown in Fig. 11.2. The largest bearing pressure is routinely at the toe of the foundation (Point A, Fig. 11.2). The largest bearing pressure should not exceed the allowable bearing pressure, which is usually provided by the geotechnical engineer.