The Complete Guide to Helical Piles
When a foundation problem arises, or when designing a construction project on difficult soil, the language becomes technical quite quickly. There may be phrases like ‘underpinning’, ‘piers’, and ‘screw piles’.
Today, the helical pile is one of the most versatile and dependable solutions in the world of construction. What are they, and why are they no
What is a Helical Pile?
A ‘helical pile’ is one large screw built from high-strength steel. The central shaft is made up of one or more helix-shaped plates (bearing plates), which are all welded to it. Just like a wood screw turns into a plank to fit two pieces of wood together, the helical pile twists deep and long into the ground itself in the process of anchoring a structure.
Unlike traditional concrete footings that depend upon the friction of soil against the sides of concrete, helical piles take that structure’s weight deep underground to stable, load-bearing soil layers.
When are They Used?
Helical piles are truly powerful tools. They’re often used in two main situations:
- New Construction: Should you be constructing on sandy, swampy, or generally unstable ground, pouring a base of standard concrete is a risk. The first choice is helical pile installation.
- Foundation Repair: The majority of helical pile application is in this type of repair. If you have noticed signs of settling such as cracking drywall, doors sticking or uneven floors, for example, you can use helical piles to lift the foundation back to its original position and ensure it stays in place.
The Benefits of Going Helical
Why do builders and construction experts like this process more than conventional concrete piers?
- Speed: The installation is fast. There is no waiting for the concrete to cure. Once in the ground, the pile can support weight straight away.
- Minimal Disturbance: Big excavators aren’t usually required. installation of Helical pile equipment is relatively light, so your landscaping does not need to be torn down to preserve the foundation.
- Precision: Installers can determine the torque (rotational force) during installation. This data translates directly to the load-bearing capacity of the pile, making sure that the pile is strong enough before the job is even done.
- All-Weather Installation: Since there is no concrete to set, helical piles can be set up in wet conditions, temperatures or rainy weather.
The Installation Process
The process of helical pile installation is a masterpiece of engineering efficiency. It goes like this:
- Excavation: Tiny holes are dug around the foundation footing to reveal the base of the structure.
- Placement: The helical pile is mounted on a hydraulic drive head. This process means that the pile is mechanically screwed down into the ground.
- Extension: When the pile reaches deeper, steel extension shafts are attached until the helix plates can descend to competent, load-bearing soil or bedrock.
- Lifting and Bracketing: A steel L-shaped bracket is placed underneath your current foundation footing once the target depth and torque are reached. Hydraulic jacks then raise the building to a level position.
- Restoration: After the construction site is properly stabilised, the excavation holes are filled up and the site is cleaned up.
Whether you are building a new deck on solid ground or saving a sinking house, helical piles are an engineering-backed permanent solution to the issue. They eliminate the guesswork that goes into foundation support and give the assurance that your structure remains centred on solid ground. Contact us today to get your free estimate from a local expert.
In short
Whether it’s a small rock, rock-filled soil, or a massive stone hidden beneath the surface, there’s always a solution for installing your screw piles safely and durably. Our expertise and specialized tools enable us to meet this challenge in all conditions.
Tell us about your project !
Contact your installer for an assessment and find out how we can anchor your foundations, even on rocky ground : https://propostfoundations.com/installer/