Retaining Wall Repair and Rehabilitation

Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) retaining walls are widely used across Canada to support highways, railways, and commercial developments. These systems rely on precast facing panels and internal reinforcements embedded in compacted backfill. Over time, poor drainage, reinforcement deterioration, or construction deficiencies can compromise performance.

GSI designs targeted MSE wall repairs that address root causes of failure, often incorporating soil nails, panel realignment, reinforcement upgrades, and improved drainage systems. Repairing an MSE wall in place typically costs a fraction of full replacement and can often be completed within weeks, restoring stability while minimizing disruption. Engineered repairs are designed for long-term performance, with service lives extending up to 75 years.

Gabion retaining walls are commonly used for erosion control and slope stabilization along roadways and waterways. While flexible and permeable, these systems can deteriorate due to wire corrosion, foundation erosion, or inadequate drainage.

GSI rehabilitates gabion walls by reinforcing foundations, replacing or stabilizing compromised baskets, and improving drainage to relieve hydrostatic pressure. These repairs maintain the wall’s permeability and compatibility with natural hydrology, making them particularly effective for environmentally sensitive and water-adjacent sites across British Columbia, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada.

Sheet pile retaining walls are often found in waterfront, industrial, and confined urban environments. Damage can result from corrosion, deflection, or differential loading over time.

GSI strengthens sheet pile walls using methods such as anchor installation, pile re-driving, and structural facings. Each repair is engineered to restore load capacity and control movement while minimizing disruption to adjacent structures and ongoing operations, which is a crucial consideration for marine terminals, transportation corridors, and active industrial sites.

Historic rock and masonry retaining walls require a careful balance between structural performance and preservation. GSI combines geotechnical engineering with skilled restoration techniques to stabilize these walls while maintaining their original appearance.

Repairs may include internal reinforcement using discreet anchors or soil nails, combined with reconstructed stonework using salvaged or locally sourced materials. This approach preserves cultural heritage while delivering modern structural support and long-term stability.