Shoring

Shoring refers to a temporary support system used in construction and mining to support a structure or trench walls during excavation, rebuilding, or stabilization work. Its primary purpose is to prevent premature collapse, maintain alignment, and protect workers and adjacent properties.

Shoring is typically temporary. In building renovations, it supports walls or floors that would otherwise be unstable during demolition or remodeling. In trenching and excavation, shoring walls restrain soil and water to reduce cave-ins. Once the permanent structure or backfill is in place, the shoring is removed.

Common methods include timber shoring, steel or aluminum hydraulic shores, and combination systems with walers and braces. Timber shoring uses vertical shores (studs) driven against the soil, with horizontal members bearing against the load. Steel plate and waler systems use adjustable steel shores with horizontal members to distribute loads. Hydraulic shoring uses hydraulic pistons to apply inward pressure against trench walls. For trenches, box or sheet-pile shoring may be used.

Materials vary by application and local codes. Timber remains common on older or smaller sites, while steel and aluminum offer greater strength and reusability. Shoring design typically requires an engineer or qualified professional to calculate loads, bearing capacity, and installation sequencing. Safety practices include inspections, shore alignment, proper underslab support, and lockout of adjacent utilities.

Permanent stabilization tasks may involve underpinning or bracing that becomes part of the structure, but traditional shoring is generally temporary.