Slope stabilization is often required to retain soil in natural, unstable slopes or man-made excavations. Keller draws on its extensive experience to deliver optimal slope stabilization solutions.
What is slope stabilization?
Slope stabilization involves improving the stability of natural or man‑made slopes where soil or rock movement presents a risk to safety, infrastructure, or the environment. Stabilization solutions address the causes of instability by improving ground strength, controlling groundwater, or providing structural support. Slope stabilization systems are used for permanent works, temporary construction support, and remedial applications where slope movement has already occurred.
When is slope stabilization required?
Slope stabilization may be required when:
- Slopes show signs of distress, movement, or failure
- Weak soils or unfavorable geology reduce slope stability
- Excavation or construction alters slope geometry
- Groundwater conditions contribute to instability
- Infrastructure or adjacent property is at risk
Slope stabilization addresses long‑term or permanent stability of natural or engineered slopes. Where excavation is required to construct below‑grade elements, temporary support of excavation systems may be used in conjunction with slope stabilization measures.
Slope stabilization methods and approaches
Slopes may fail for various reasons, such as erosion, marine wave action or currents, rain, and elevated groundwater levels. Also, adjacent cuts or excavations, utility leaks, freeze-thaw cycles, or earthquakes can trigger unwanted slope failure.
Slope stabilization methods are selected based on soil and rock conditions, slope geometry, groundwater influences, and project constraints. Solutions may involve reinforcing the slope, controlling groundwater, modifying slope geometry, or a combination of techniques. Keller can also perform a specialty segment of this type of work, including the repair of Mechanically Stabilized Embankment (MSE) walls.
Stabilization systems can be implemented as standalone solutions or integrated with earth retention, ground improvement, and excavation support works to manage risk and improve constructability.
Why choose Keller for slope stabilization?
Keller combines geotechnical expertise with extensive experience delivering slope stabilization and earth support systems in complex ground conditions. Our team provides integrated design-build solutions that address site-specific conditions while supporting safe construction.
Common uses
- Improve stability of natural and engineered slopes
- Protect infrastructure, roadways, and rail corridors
- Stabilize excavation faces and embankments
- Mitigate landslide and erosion risk
- Support development in steep or variable terrain
Related projects
Infrastructure
Teton Pass: The Big Fill Slide
Keller provides rapid design and mobilization to perform slope stabilization following a major landslide along Teton Pass.
Residential
Deer Valley Friesen House
Keller installs drilled shafts to mitigate slope movement at a residential home.
Infrastructure
Theodore Dam
Keller installed vibro stone columns (vibro replacement) to stabilize the slope of the Theodore Dam.
Commercial
Lowe’s of Temecula
Keller installs soil nails to remediate a failing retaining wall protecting a popular home improvement store.
Institutional
Texas State Memorial Railroad Redoubt Stabilization
Keller’s slope stabilization design and construction at the Vicksburg Military Park earned the 2022 Excellence in Construction award from the Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia.
