Subsurface Constructors More SERVICES RESOURCES CASE STUDIES ABOUT CONTACT WICK DRAINS Wick drains, also called Prefabricated Vertical Drains (PVDs), are installed in soft soils in order to accelerate consolidation of the soil by providing additional drainage paths for porewater to escape. Wick drains are often installed prior to placing a pre-load/surcharge, which applies the stress necessary to accelerate drainage and consolidation, resulting in increased soil strength. Wick drains consist of a corrugated, sheet-like core that is wrapped in a filter fabric. They are installed by pushing a mandrel, or stitcher, through the fine-grained, soft soil layer. Subsurface Constructors has completed several wick drain projects, mostly on DOT projects that require an earthen embankment approach to an MSE Wall abutment, and ultimately a bridge structure. The wick drains are used to help accelerate consolidation of the soils below the earth embankment. Often, vibro stone columns (i.e. aggregate piers) are installed beneath the MSE wall to support the wall. Contact Subsurface Constructors today for expert guidance on wick drains for your ground improvement project. Desktop guide to aggregate pier ground improvement Learn about your options, your costs and bidding out your foundation construction project. download SERVING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY FOR MORE THAN 110 YEARS ADSC AGC ASCE DFI COPYRIGHT © 2021. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRIVACY POLICY. ST. LOUIS: 866-421-2460 PHILADELPHIA: 609-577-2724 CLEVELAND: 866-421-2460 MINNEAPOLIS: 612-280-8940 Facebook LinkedIn Youtube Newsletter Signup