Controlled Soil Retention for Engineered Void Performance
Plastic Soil Retainers are used to prevent passive and lateral soil movement into engineered void spaces along slabs, walls, grade beams, pier caps, and footings. In expansive soil conditions, maintaining a clean, unobstructed void is critical to long-term concrete performance.
At Carton Forms LLC, our plastic soil retainers are designed to work alongside carton void forms to help ensure the void space performs as intended — not compromised by soil intrusion or backfill pressure.
Why Use Plastic Soil Retainers
Void forms protect concrete from upward soil movement. Soil retainers protect that void from being filled in before it can do its job.
Plastic Soil Retainers are used to:
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Prevents passive soil pressure from entering engineered void spaces
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Maintain clean void conditions beneath slabs, walls, and beams
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Control lateral soil pressure at slab edges and grade beams
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Support long-term performance of void form systems
When void space is part of the design, protecting that space is just as important as creating it.
How Plastic Soil Retainers Work
Plastic soil retainers are installed vertically along the edge of void form systems where soil would otherwise migrate into the void. Once in place, they act as a rigid barrier between native soil or backfill and the engineered void space.
By controlling lateral movement, soil retainers help ensure the void remains functional as the structure transitions from construction to long-term service.
The result is simple:
The soil moves where it’s supposed to —into the created void.
Construction & Materials
Carton Forms plastic soil retainers are manufactured from durable, moisture-resistant polypropylene, used below-grade environments.
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Moisture-impervious plastic construction
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Rigid internal structure to resist backfill pressure
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Lightweight panels for easy handling and placement
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Consistent geometry for clean installation alongside void forms
The material does not degrade prematurely and maintains its shape and purpose throughout the life of the void system.
Applications
Plastic Soil Retainers are commonly used in:
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Slab edges
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Pier caps and pilasters
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Grade beams
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Foundation walls
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Footings
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Any condition where lateral soil pressure threatens engineered void space
They are suitable for both residential and commercial foundation systems.
Installation Considerations
Proper installation helps ensure soil retainers perform as intended. Typical considerations include:
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Install retainers at an angular position or above and below the void form system, tight against the wall
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Secure adequately before backfilled
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Ensure continuous coverage along void edges
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Follow recommended installation details and site-specific requirements
If site conditions differ from standard details, we’re available to help review placement options.
Used With Carton Void Form Systems
Plastic soil retainers are most effective when used as part of a complete void system, including:
Together, these components help preserve void integrity and reduce the risk of foundation performance issues over time.
Why Contractors and Dealers Use Carton Forms Plastic Soil Retainers
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Helps ensure void space performs as designed
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Controls lateral soil intrusion
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Durable, moisture-resistant construction
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Simple, reliable installation
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Designed to integrate with carton void forms
Nothing is assumed. Everything is earned.
Availability & Support
Carton Forms plastic soil retainers are available through local concrete supply dealers. If questions come up around specifications, or take-offs, we work alongside our dealers to offer optional product and installation methods, that help ensure the right solution is quoted and supplied.