Benefits of Using Helical Piers on Structural Foundations
Unless you are in the building and construction industry, you probably do not know what a helical pier is. But, you probably would agree on the importance of your home, patio, deck, sunroom, or other addition or structure having a safe, sturdy foundation.
Helical piers, also referred to as helical piles or screw anchors are a system of anchoring a structure to the ground as an alternative to concrete foundations and footings. The technology has been around since the mid-nineteenth century and was originally used in structures such as lighthouses, bridges, and oceanfront piers – locations requiring specialized construction and engineering to make building in these locations happen.
The use of helical piers quickly expanded to a variety of residential applications, and today are routinely considered as one option for any type of structure that requires support from a foundation. And, as the name suggests, a steel helical pier – properly sized according to the project – is wound into the ground, similar to the way a wood screw is twisted into wood.
What are the benefits of using helical piers?
The benefits to using helical pier/screw anchor foundations over concrete foundations are many.
- Helical piers are versatile enough for use in practically any residential building application requiring a foundation; additionally, they are engineered and sized to meet your building project’s design specifications for providing maximum support.
- Using relatively small equipment, helical piers can be installed quickly and with no excavating of the area required; this reduces: the carbon footprint due to less displacement of the soil, the time needed to complete the job, the expense associated with the project, and the risk of harm or danger to the crew installing the piers.
- Helical piers can be used in a variety of soil types and groundwater conditions and are generally not affected by ground movement such as when soil freezes and swells or the ground enters into a drought situation.
- Once installed, building on helical piers can occur immediately – there is no need to wait for concrete to set and dry.
- Helical piers can be installed virtually anywhere, including sites with difficult, remote, or limited access.
- Installation of helical piers results in reduced impact to the environment, including minimal disturbing of the ground or vibrating as well as low levels of noise during installation.
- These piers can be easily removed when the foundation is no longer needed.
Where can helical piers be used?
Helical piers are appropriate for use in a wide range of residential construction applications and are used extensively – anywhere a foundation is required! Beyond the home itself (even mobile homes), they are suited for use on home additions, garages/carports, balconies, porches, decks, patios, and sunrooms. Other applications include clotheslines, mailboxes, flagpoles, backyard play equipment, fences, solar panels, and much more!
If you would like to know more about helical piers and how they can benefit a home renovation project or addition you may be considering, Sovereign Construction Services can help. Sovereign Construction Services is a full-service home renovating and remodeling company and owner Steve Rush continually looks for ways to improve and enhance every project he completes – all to the benefit of his customers. He is available to answer all your questions about helical piers and how they would work. Call Steve today at 610-639-2986 or contact him here.
*Source: https://technometalpost.com/en-US/advantages/helical-piers/