Helical Pile Installation for Lasting Structural Support
Reliable Support From the Ground Down
Helical piles, also known as screw piles or helical piers, provide stable structural support when the soil near the surface cannot safely carry the weight of a building or structure. These steel piles are mechanically advanced into the ground until they reach the depth and resistance required for the project.
They can be used for new decks, additions, garages, shops, post-and-beam structures and engineered slabs. Helical piles can also help stabilize an existing foundation affected by settlement.
JR’s Waterproofing and Structural Repairs installs helical pile systems throughout Southern Ontario, from Hamilton to London and the surrounding communities.
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How Helical Piles Create Stable Structural Support
Weak fill, loose soil, frost movement, excess moisture and changing ground conditions can all affect shallow footings. A helical pile reaches below these unstable layers and transfers the weight of the structure to stronger, more dependable soil farther underground.
Each pile consists of a steel shaft fitted with one or more helical plates. Specialized hydraulic equipment rotates the pile into the ground, with extensions added until the necessary depth and installation resistance are reached. Installation torque is monitored throughout the process because it helps determine whether the pile has achieved the required load-bearing capacity.
Once installed, a bracket or support plate connects the pile to the structure. For new construction, the piles create secure support points for posts, beams, slabs or foundation components. During a structural repair, they can be installed alongside an existing foundation to transfer its weight away from unstable soil and help prevent further settlement.
Move Faster With Helical Piles
Helical pile installation generally requires less excavation than conventional concrete footings. There is also no waiting period for concrete to cure, allowing construction to continue shortly after installation.
Compact installation equipment can make screw piles especially useful in backyards, narrow spaces and other areas where access for larger machinery is limited. The correct pile size, depth and configuration will depend on the structure, soil conditions, site access and any applicable engineering requirements. Technical background
Frequently Asked Questions About Helical Piles
Are helical piles and screw piles the same thing?
Yes. Helical piles and screw piles are two names for the same general foundation system. They may also be called helical piers, particularly when they are used to stabilize or support an existing foundation.
What can helical piles be used for?
Helical piles can support decks, porches, additions, garages, sheds, shops, post-and-beam structures, engineered slabs and other residential or light commercial projects. They can also be incorporated into repairs for foundations experiencing settlement.
Can helical piles repair a settling foundation?
Helical piles can be used to stabilize certain settling foundations by transferring the structure’s weight to stronger soil below the affected area. The foundation and surrounding conditions must first be assessed to determine the cause of the movement and whether helical piles are the right repair method.
How deep do helical piles need to go?
There is no standard depth that works for every property. Installation continues until the pile reaches the depth and torque resistance required for the intended load. Soil conditions, the weight of the structure and the project’s engineering specifications all influence the final depth.
Are screw piles better than concrete footings?
It depends on the project. Screw piles can offer advantages where soil near the surface is unstable, access is limited or construction needs to proceed without waiting for concrete to cure. Conventional concrete footings may still be suitable for other sites. The best option should be determined after reviewing the structure and ground conditions.
How much does helical pile installation cost?
Pricing depends on the number and size of piles required, installation depth, site access, soil conditions and any engineering or permit requirements. JR’s can inspect the project details and provide a quote based on the support system actually needed.
Our Reviews
Helical Piles / Screw Piles
- Perfect for Deck Posts
- Beams
- Garages
- Shops / Sheds
- Resolve home 'settling'
- Use with engineered slabs
- Slab on-grade structures
- Structures on grade or just below
- Quick Installation
- Immediate load capacity
- Versatile in every soil and climate
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