When working on new builds, deep excavations, or foundation repairs, temporary and permanent shoring systems are essential to prevent soil movement, protect nearby structures, and maintain site safety.
At Piling PNW, we engineer and install customized shoring systems designed for the Pacific Northwest’s challenging soils, seismic conditions, and tight urban job sites.
About Our Stabilization Team
Shoring refers to the structural systems that temporarily or permanently support excavations or existing structures during construction, repair, or stabilization.
Whether you’re digging next to an existing foundation or reinforcing an aging retaining wall, the right shoring system prevents collapse and keeps your project compliant and safe.
Deep basement or crawlspace excavations
Hillside and slope stabilization
Foundation underpinning or repairs
Retaining wall reinforcement
Adjacent property protection during new construction
Emergency stabilization for failing structures
We are dedicated to delivering innovative stabilization systems that protect your home’s structural integrity while enhancing long-term property value and durability.
Temporary shoring systems are installed to provide short-term support during construction or excavation phases.
They are removed once the permanent foundation or retaining wall is in place.
Examples:
Soldier piles and lagging
Shotcrete walls with tiebacks
Hydraulic or timber bracing systems
When It’s Used:
Excavating near property lines
Protecting sidewalks, streets, or utilities
Supporting basement excavations or foundation replacements
Permanent shoring remains as part of the finished structure. It provides long-term stability and helps control lateral soil pressure after construction is complete.
Examples:
Secant or tangent pile walls
Reinforced concrete retaining walls
Permanent soldier pile and lagging systems with corrosion protection
When It’s Used:
Long-term slope stabilization
Retaining structures in hillside properties
Foundations built close to neighboring buildings
Foundation Specialists
Every site is different — soil composition, groundwater, and proximity to other structures all affect how a shoring system must be designed.
At Piling PNW, all shoring designs are engineer-stamped and tailored to meet or exceed local Seattle and King County codes.
Ideal for Confined Urban Lots: Soldier pile and lagging systems are among the most common forms of temporary shoring used in Seattle’s dense neighborhoods and tight construction zones. Steel H-beams (soldier piles) are drilled or driven into the ground, with timber or concrete panels (lagging) placed between them as excavation progresses. This method allows for precise excavation control, even directly beside existing structures or property lines, providing strong and cost-effective soil retention without excessive vibration or disruption.
Low-Vibration Solutions for Sensitive Structures: When working near older homes, fragile foundations, or vibration-sensitive environments, helical and pin piles are the go-to solution. These piles are installed using torque rather than impact, minimizing ground disturbance and noise. Ideal for underpinning and shoring applications in residential neighborhoods, they deliver exceptional load capacity while protecting nearby buildings, landscaping, and utilities. Their quick installation and flexibility make them a preferred option for both temporary and permanent shoring.
For Deep, Permanent Stabilization: Micropile and anchored wall systems provide robust, long-term stabilization in deep excavations or challenging soil conditions. Micropiles are small-diameter, high-strength piles drilled deep into stable strata, while tieback anchors resist lateral soil pressure. Combined, they create a durable permanent shoring wall capable of supporting heavy structures or steep grade changes. This engineered approach is ideal for hillside homes and complex foundation repair projects across the Pacific Northwest.
Reinforced Earth Retention with Minimal Excavation: Shotcrete and soil nail walls are highly efficient solutions for both temporary and permanent earth retention where space is limited. Steel bars (“soil nails”) are drilled and grouted into the slope or excavation face, then covered with sprayed concrete (shotcrete) to form a rigid retaining surface. This system stabilizes soil quickly and effectively without large equipment or deep excavation — making it a popular choice for residential retaining walls, basement cutbacks, and slope reinforcement in constrained job sites.
End-to-End Stabilization Management
Our end-to-end stabilization management encompasses everything from the initial consultation to the final inspection. We begin with a thorough evaluation of your property and develop a detailed plan that outlines the necessary steps for repair and reinforcement. Throughout the project, our team maintains clear communication, ensuring you are informed about progress and any adjustments needed. This holistic approach guarantees that no detail is overlooked, resulting in a stabilization solution that is effective, efficient, and designed to last.
Completed Stabilization Projects
Decades of Experience
Satisfied Homeowners
End-to-End Stabilization Excellence