Caissons and grade beams are most frequently used for hillside home stabilization, or to support retaining walls in unstable soil. They are often the perfect way to protect your property when other foundation systems are inadequate. Caissons and grade beams are retaining wall and foundation support systems consisting of a deep drilled hole and some type of steel reinforcement encased in concrete.  The reinforced concrete piles or caissons are used to create a solid connection down deep where there is good load bearing soil types such as bedrock.  

These caissons are bonded together by additional steel reinforcement (re-bar) in what is called a grade beam. 

Caissons and grade beam retaining walls are two types of retaining wall structures used in construction.

1. Caissons: Caissons are cylindrical shafts made of concrete or steel that are used as foundations for buildings or bridges. In retaining wall construction, caissons can be used to support retaining walls and prevent soil or rock from collapsing or sliding. Caissons are typically sunk into the ground and filled with concrete, creating a solid, rigid structure that provides stability and support to the retaining wall.

1. Grade beam retaining walls: A grade beam retaining wall is a type of retaining wall that consists of a reinforced concrete beam that is supported by foundation piers or columns. The beam runs along the base of the retaining wall and provides additional support to prevent soil or rock from collapsing or sliding. Grade beam retaining walls are typically used in areas with deep excavation or where there is a need for additional support to prevent lateral movement.