The Difference Between Helical Piers and Push Piers
For any structure to endure, it must be built on a strong foundation. The foundation supports the load of the entire structure, protects ground moisture from compromising the structure, and keeps the structure standing solidly in the face of nature’s whims. Yet, the foundation itself or the structure may require support. That’s when Bay Area pier drilling comes in to install helical piers or push piers for the support, strength, and stability required.
Helical versus Push Piers. What is the Difference?
Helical piers are steel shafts with a spiral plate or plates welded onto them. Each shaft is typically screwed into the ground using hydraulic rotary motors. The helical piers function much like a wood screw with the helical plates acting like threads on the screw. As the piers are turned into the soil, the threads pull the shaft into the soil to the depth required, thus gripping the soil.
Push piers are open-ended pipes that are pushed into the ground until they find a soil depth that is determined to be strong/solid enough to support the load above. A hydraulic ram is used to push or ram the piers into the soil and then the pier is anchored to the structure. The weight of the structure above then pushes on the resistance of the pipes and the soil.
It is important to secure professionals in foundation piers in the Bay Area to provide one of these secure support systems.
What are the Advantages of Helical Piers?
The use of helical piers offers these advantages:
- Eco-friendly construction. Instead of digging deep foundations using large machinery, an expert in Bay Area foundation drilling uses smaller hydraulic systems to screw the piers into place, so there is very little impact on the ground surrounding the installation and no disturbing construction vibration.
- Quick installation. Helical piers can be installed quickly and in most weather conditions.
- Strength capabilities. Helical piers can be used in a variety of soil conditions that a typical foundation would not be suitable for and they provide excellent and sturdy support.
- Precision placement. Helical piers can be installed at precise angles and depths, and even installed underwater.
- Affordable solution. With the absence of heavy machinery and complex clean-up, helical piers are cost-efficient.
- Versatile uses. Helical piers can be used for new construction, lighter loads, fractured footings, lateral resistance to prevent down-hill sliding, soil stabilization, and tiebacks. They can be used very effectively for large decks by deck piers Bay Area experts.
What are the Advantages of Push Piers?
Push piers offer strong stable support for a heavily loaded foundation. They can be installed only vertically but can be installed in tight spaces.
Choose an Expert Bay Area Foundation Drilling and Excavation Company
Contact Lassiter Excavating, your Bay Area drilling experts for foundation and retaining wall construction, pool removal, excavation, trenching, and pier drilling since 1989. We provide exceptional service for both residential and commercial customers.