When people are in need of a more stable retaining wall, or they are completing a construction project that needs a temporary retaining wall, they often turn to soil nailing. Soil nailing has been used since the seventies for multiple different repairs and construction jobs. Soil nails, which can be a permanent solution or a short-term tool, are so effective because of their diverse uses.

Common uses include stabilizing slopes or creating permanent retaining walls for your home, temporarily shoring so you can repair an already-existing wall, and helping to control ground movements and disturbances. If you need a soil nails installation in the Chicago area, you can count on the team at United Structural Systems to get the job done. We have years of experience in underpinning solutions and foundation repair. You won't find a more qualified foundation repair team in the Chicagoland area.

Soil nailing should only be done by a professional that has experience. The professional at United Structural Systems has the experience needed for soil nailing.


Excavation – A vertical cut is made below the elevation of the soil nails so that a suitable bench can be established for the installation of the nails at the proper angle.
Installation of nails – A drill is used to drill rigs for the installation of the nail. These nails are typically installed on a 4 to 6ft horizontal and vertical grid patter, with the drill hole inclination being 10 to 20 degress from horizontal. Once the hole is drilled, the nail is installed.
Reinforcing and drainage – Once the excavation is made and the soil nails are installed, reinforcing material may need to be placed along the excavation to reinforce the concrete facing. If drainage behind the soil nail wall is a concern, a geotextile drain mat can be applied to the excavated earth face of the wall between the nails.
Shotcreting and installing bearing plates – Once the reinforcing and drainage are placed, the next step is to apply the shotcrete facing. In a temporary application, shotcreting is a method of tying the system together, providing a cover for the soil and retaining the soil between the nails.
Repeat steps to final subgrade – After the shotcrete has been installed and soil nails have cured for 3 days, the process is repeated in lifts until the subgrade elevation is reached.
Soil nailing began as a method of providing temporary earth support, but it has evolved as an economical method of providing a permanent, finished wall. Let the professionals at United Structural Systems provide you with more information regarding the use of soil nailing for your foundation repair needs in the Chicago area.