Efficient bored retention for excavation and level changes
Contiguous piled walls consist of a line of closely spaced bored piles constructed with small gaps between each pile. Together they form a stiff retaining structure capable of supporting excavations and changes in ground level.
They can provide an efficient alternative to overlapping piled walls where a continuous groundwater cut-off is not required. The bored installation process also makes them useful on sites where vibration needs to be limited compared with driven retaining solutions. Contiguous walls can be adapted to suit different excavation depths, boundary conditions and structural requirements, with the final pile spacing and reinforcement determined as part of the retaining wall design.
Bored Installation
Reduced vibration compared with driven systems
Efficient Retention
Closely spaced piles support retained ground
Boundary Friendly
Useful on constrained sites
Flexible Design
Temporary or permanent applications
How Contiguous Piled Walls Works
Contiguous piled walls are constructed by installing individual bored piles at close centres along the proposed retaining line. Small gaps remain between adjacent piles, while the completed sequence acts collectively to support the retained ground.
As excavation progresses, additional structural support can be incorporated where required by the design. Because the wall is not continuous, contiguous piling is most appropriate where substantial groundwater cut-off is not a primary project requirement.
- Efficient retaining wall construction
- Low-vibration bored installation
- Suitable close to boundaries
- Effective for excavations
- Temporary or permanent applications
Best Suited For
Excavations
Structural earth retention
Level Changes
Supporting changes in site elevation
Basement Works
Where water cut-off is not critical
Boundaries
Close to site constraints
Urban Developments
Reduced vibration installation
Commercial Schemes
Practical piled retaining solutions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are contiguous piled walls watertight?
No. Small gaps remain between piles, so they do not provide the same groundwater cut-off as a secant wall.
When should contiguous piles be considered over secant piles?
They can offer an efficient solution where earth retention is required but significant groundwater control is not.
Can contiguous piles be permanent?
Yes, depending on the structural design and project requirements.
Do contiguous piled walls require additional support during excavation?
They can, depending on the retained height, ground conditions and structural design. Temporary props, anchors or other support systems may form part of the retaining strategy where required.