Soil Nailing vs. Retaining Walls: Exploring Two Popular Slope Stabilization Methods in Atlanta, GA

Soil nailing and retention wall construction are two slope stabilization methods offered by Engineered Solutions for new commercial construction sites and other applications, such as tunnels, roadways, and even dams. Both techniques can be effective, but each comes with its own advantages and should be utilized in specific instances. Let’s explore these two geotechnical methods and what each of them has to offer.

Soil Nailing

Soil nailing and soil nail wall construction are ideal for sites that have loosely packed soils and areas where landsides are possible and pose a real threat. The process involves long, steel reinforcement sinews that are inserted into the excavated or sloped soil. They are then cemented into place with a grout mixture to stabilize the soil and prevent it from collapsing or shifting. This is ideal for applications such as:

• Temporary excavation for construction sites
• Tunnels, bridges, and roadways
• Remediation of failed retention walls
• And more

Soil nail walls are typically utilized when traditional retention walls may not be able to effectively and safely hold back loosely packed ground soil. Many of our customers opt for this service to ensure years of lasting performance and durability.

Retaining Walls

Regular retention walls are used in similar situations to soil nail walls – in areas with sloped or excavated soil. They serve a similar purpose and are designed to hold back soils and prevent landslides. However, this method is slightly different in that it does not involve long steel reinforcement bars or ground nails. Soil is backfilled, reinforcement mesh is installed, and then concrete blocks are built and installed to hold back soil. It is easily installed and slightly more cost-effective than soil nail walls.

Both services are effective, especially when designed and installed by the experts at Engineered Solutions. If you require soil nailing services or retention wall construction and would like to learn more about these services, contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve Atlanta, GA, and the surrounding areas.