When it comes to construction, especially in places where ground stability is key, shotcrete shoring is a go-to solution for ensuring safety and support. In this post, we’re diving into some of the most common types of shotcrete shoring that contractors, engineers, and architects rely on to keep everything steady.
Whether you’re building a small project or a massive infrastructure, knowing the right type of shoring can make all the difference. Let’s break down four popular types: Secant Pile Shoring, Beam Shoring, Tangent Shoring, and Sheet Pile Shoring.
Secant Pile Shoring
Secant pile shoring is all about creating a continuous, interlocking wall of concrete piles, which makes it one of the strongest shoring options out there. The process involves drilling and filling two types of piles—primary (unreinforced) and secondary (reinforced)—that overlap to form a sturdy barrier.
This type is particularly effective in areas with loose or sandy soils, keeping everything in place and preventing soil from collapsing into the site. And for projects needing serious water resistance, like deep basement digs or projects near water, secant pile shoring is ideal. It’s a bit more complex and time-intensive, but if you need extra stability, it’s well worth it.
Beam Shoring
Sometimes called “soldier pile shoring,” beam shoring uses vertical steel or concrete beams placed around the excavation site. Shotcrete is then sprayed between the beams to form a stable wall, hardening into a solid support system.
Beam shoring is flexible enough for a variety of soil types and project sizes. It’s especially useful in tighter spaces where other types of shoring might be too bulky. That flexibility makes it a great fit for both smaller excavations and large-scale developments.
Tangent Shoring
Tangent shoring places piles close together without overlapping—think of it like pieces just touching along the edges (hence “tangent”). It’s a bit like secant shoring but quicker to install, making it a good choice for projects on a time crunch or with a smaller budget.
This type works well when slight soil movement is acceptable, and it’s often used in more stable soil conditions without a high risk of water seepage. While it doesn’t provide the same water resistance as secant shoring, tangent shoring still delivers solid support for many projects.
Sheet Pile Shoring
Sheet pile shoring is a classic approach that involves driving large steel sheets side by side into the ground, forming a continuous wall around the excavation. These sheets create a sturdy barrier against soil movement, and adding a layer of shotcrete can make the wall even tougher.
This type is especially handy in softer soil areas and near water, where water resistance is important. Sheet pile shoring installs and removes quickly, which makes it a solid choice for temporary projects or smaller sites. For deep excavations, though, other methods might be more stable.
Get Expert Help for Your Shoring Needs
Choosing the right type of shotcrete shoring is key to ensuring safety and stability on a construction site. Each method—Secant Pile, Beam, Tangent, and Sheet Pile—offers unique advantages based on soil conditions, project size, and environmental factors.
At BAM Shotcrete, we’re here to help with tailored shoring solutions for projects throughout Arizona. We also travel out of state, including California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Give us a call at 623-462-0230 for a free estimate, or request an online estimate.
Curious about which type of shoring would be best for your project? Just give us a shout! We’re always here to help.
