Sheet piles are sections of sheet materials with interlocking edges that are driven into the ground to provide earth retention, excavation support or support for foundations. Sheet piles are most commonly made of steel and can be installed via top driving or vibratory methods. Sheet piles are used in both permanent and temporary applications for both shoring and structural work.
Advantages to the use of sheet piles are quick installations, long lifespan – both above and below water – and the work is generally neat and clean creating no spoils. Sheet piles do not work well in dense hard ground or ground with cobbles/boulders. Typically, in these areas, pre-drilling is required, or another method of support will be utilized.