Helical piles & piers are an excellent choice for a wide range of projects. Whether you’re looking to repair an existing foundation or get started on new construction, these versatile piling solutions offer engineers and construction managers a number of key benefits.
What is the difference between helical piers and piles?
In a nutshell, helical piers are long steel shafts that leverage displacement functionality to create a foundation. They can be used to support both axial and uplift loads as well as lateral forces, depending on your project needs. They also have the ability to resist high slenderness and buckling loads in certain ground conditions.
This makes them a great solution for applications in which soil conditions make traditional piling methods impractical, or where access is limited. They’re also a more environmentally friendly option than many other forms of piling, as they don’t require concrete and don’t involve the excavation or disposal of spoil.
Helical pile installation is also faster than other methods. They can be installed in just minutes, meaning you can build a complete foundation quickly and effectively. This accelerated turnaround is particularly useful for remote or difficult to access sites.
Finally, helical piles can be installed with smaller equipment than many other piling methods. This reduces environmental impact, as well as noise and vibration that can damage nearby equipment, structures or neighborhoods. They’re also easier to transport between sites than other piles, which can help with the speed and quality of your work. These advantages combined make helical piles a great choice for both your next construction or remediation project.