Identify Missing Geotextile Fabric

What happens here

The next flaw identified by the presenter is the absence of geotextile fabric. This specialized fabric is typically placed between the native soil backfill and the drainage aggregate (such as crushed stone or base stone). Its primary function is to act as a permeable barrier, preventing fine soil particles from migrating into and clogging the drainage layer over time. Without this critical separation layer, the drainage system becomes ineffective, leading to hydrostatic pressure buildup behind the wall and significantly increasing the likelihood of structural failure.

Goal: Recognize the absence of geotextile fabric for soil separation as a construction defect.