DEEP FOUNDATIONS
Sheet Piles
Interlocked and Loaded
Sheet piles are long, thin structural sections used to provide temporary or permanent support for earth retention, excavation projects, water retention and diversion, and more. Sheet piles are most commonly made from steel, and can be driven into the ground, interlocking to create a barrier that resists lateral forces and prevents soil movement. Sheet piles are relatively easy to install and can be installed quickly, which can help to save time and money during construction while providing a long-lasting solution.
Sheet piles are typically used in underground or below-grade applications, where excavation and earth retention are necessary. They are commonly used in the construction of retaining walls, cofferdams, and foundations, as well as in the stabilization of slopes and embankments. Sheet piles can also be used in marine applications, such as the construction of seawalls, jetties, and bulkheads.
Common Sheet Pile Applications:
Foundation Solutions
- Depending on the situation, sheet piles can be viable options for foundations to create a strong, stable base to support the weight of a structure.
Retaining Walls
- Retaining walls are used to hold back soil, water, or other materials from reaching the construction site.
Cofferdams
- Temporary structures used to keep water out of a construction site, often used when building below the waterline.
The installation of sheet piles involves driving the sheets into the ground using a vibratory hammer or impact hammer. The type of hammer used depends on the soil conditions and the strength of the sheet pile material. In some cases, a hydraulic press may be used to install sheet piles, particularly in situations where noise and vibration are a concern.
There are several different types of sheet piles available, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Steel is the most common material type used when creating sheet piles and the piles are typically made from hot-rolled steel. Steel sheet piles are highly durable and can withstand significant lateral loads and bending stresses, and they are highly resistant to corrosion. Piles can also be coated with various materials to increase their resistance to environmental factors.
GROUP Contractors considers several variables when deciding whether sheet piles are the appropriate solution for projects. Some of these project variables include:
Soil Conditions
- If the soil is loose or unstable, sheet piles may be the best choice since they can provide additional support and stability.
Site Location
- If a site is located near a body of water or on a slope, sheet piles may be the best option to prevent water and other materials from infiltrating the job site.
Project Budget
- While sheet piles may be a more expensive foundational solution compared to alternatives, they may be more cost-effective in the long run as they can help to prevent environmental damage and prolong the life of a structure.
Construction Timeline
- Sheet piles are relatively quick to install which can help to fit client timelines without compromising project quality.
GROUP Contractors is dedicated to delivering results that exceed expectations, on time, within budget, and with safety as the number one priority.
Keeping Water Out of the Way
Steel sheet piles are often used in construction as a retaining wall system to control and manage water flow. The interlocking steel sheets are driven into the ground to form a continuous wall.
How Sheet Piles Can Help Retain Water Flow:
Control the Water Table
- Steel sheet piles can be used to create a cut-off wall that extends into the ground below the water table. This helps to prevent water from seeping through the ground and entering a construction site.
Divert Water
- Steel sheet piles can be used to create a diversion wall to redirect water flow away from a construction site or to a specific area. This can help to control the flow of water and even prevent flooding or erosion.
Retain Water
- Steel sheet piles can be used to create a retaining wall to hold back water. This can be useful in situations where a body of water needs to be contained or where water needs to be temporarily held back for construction purposes.
What Makes Sheet Piles a Great Solution for Your Next Project?
Sheet piles are valued for their versatility. They can be applied in several situations, including foundational systems, retaining walls, cofferdams, and more, making them great solutions for a variety of construction situations. Sheet piles also provide exceptional strength while being relatively fast and easy to install, and they cause minimal disruption to the surrounding area.
No matter the conditions or challenges, trust GROUP Contractors to identify the best solutions to make your next project a success.