What is a brace or raking pile?
A brace or shore (Dutch: schoor) is a supporting member: a post, beam or bar that props something up. The term usually refers to an inclined support. Braces are used wherever something needs temporary or permanent support, or needs to be set exactly plumb.
A raking pile (Dutch: schoorpaal) is a pile driven into the ground at an angle, helping the foundation resist horizontal forces. Its inclination is expressed as a ratio, for example 5:1.
Types and uses
- Construction braces: inclined props that hold formwork, precast concrete walls and door or window frames in position and plumb during construction (push-pull props).
- Raking shores: inclined shores against a wall that is bulging, or used during demolition and facade retention.
- Structural braces: permanent diagonal members in timber frames and roof structures, such as wind braces and knee braces, that stabilise the structure.
- Raking piles: under bridge abutments, quay walls and retaining walls, where earth pressure or other lateral loads occur.
- Windmills: on a Dutch windmill, the braces are the inclined timbers of the tail.
Application
Safety tips for temporary braces:
- Secure the foot: a brace also pushes sideways. Fix the foot with a base plate, anchors or a sole plate so it cannot slide.
- Angle: a brace that is too steep gives little lateral support; one that is too flat pushes the foot away. Follow the supplier’s instructions.
- Tension and compression: props for precast walls often need to take both tension and compression; use props designed for this.
- Don’t remove too early: only take braces away once the permanent structure can carry the loads.
- Design: raking shores for facades and raking piles need to be designed by a structural engineer.
Related Terms
- Propping
- Timber brace
- Pile
- Bridge abutment
- Retaining wall
- Braced and unbraced
Discover our DIY plans at fredsdiyplans.com