Helical piers are a smart choice for both new construction and foundation repair applications. Engineers recommend them for commercial, industrial and residential buildings of every type and size. They’re also the ideal solution for supporting structures above unstable and shifting soil, as well as water saturated soils. They’ve been used in construction projects since the mid-to-late 19th century and continue to be the engineer’s preferred foundation solution.
What size are helical piers?
The piers themselves look similar to screw piles and can be installed at depths of up to 20 feet or more, depending on the project requirements and soil conditions. They’re designed to be able to withstand both compression and tension loads, which are primarily generated by the soil’s weight on the pier’s bearing plates. These plates have a wide contact area that helps provide both load resistance and stability. These plates can be customized for the size and shape of the structure being supported, and each pier is load tested during installation to ensure it’s perfectly configured for your specific project.
Helical piers are a fast and efficient way to support any structure, and they often require less site disruption than concrete or driven piles. For example, if your building is located in a remote or hard-to-access location, helical piers can be installed quickly and without much need for excavation equipment. This allows your building to remain operational during the entire process. Additionally, helical piers are an excellent option for repairing foundations in existing buildings in oil and gas production facilities because they can be installed in stages and do not require extensive or long-term shutdowns.