Everything You Need to Know About Helical Piers Foundation: A Comprehensive Guide

What Are Helical Piers?

Definition: Helical piers are big steel screws used to support buildings. They are put into the ground until they reach solid soil, giving the building a strong base.
History: Helical piers have been used since the early 1800s. They were first used to keep lighthouses stable. Over time, people started using them on land for different types of buildings.
Parts of a Helical Pier:
- Lead Section: This is the front part with one or more blades to help screw the pier into the ground.
- Extension Shaft: This middle part connects the lead section to the foundation and can be made longer if needed.
- Bracket: This top part attaches the pier to the building’s foundation.

Signs You Might Need Them:
- Cracks in the foundation walls.
- Floors that are not level.
- Doors and windows that stick.
Soil Conditions: Helical piers work well in many types of soil, especially where the top layer is unstable.
Types of Buildings: They are used for homes, businesses, and factories. They are a good solution for many building problems.

Stability: They offer great support for foundations and prevent future problems.
Versatility: They work in different soil types like sand, clay, and silt.
Eco-Friendly: Installing them doesn’t harm the environment much.
Cost-Effective: They might seem expensive at first, but they save money in the long run by reducing repair needs.

Site Assessment: First, experts check the soil and plan how to install the piers.
Drilling: Special machines screw the helical piers into the ground until they reach strong soil.
Load Testing: Each pier is tested to make sure it can support the building.
Final Steps: The piers are connected to the building’s foundation, making it steady.

Initial Cost: The cost depends on soil type, depth needed, and the number of piers.
Long-Term Savings: Putting in helical piers can save a lot of money later by preventing foundation issues.
Cost Comparisons: Compared to other methods, helical piers are often cheaper and more efficient.

Regular Inspections: Checking the foundation regularly helps keep it in good shape.
Moisture Control: Managing water around the foundation prevents damage.
Load Management: Make sure the weight on the structure is evenly spread to avoid overloading.

Residential Example: A homeowner in Ontario fixed big foundation problems with helical piers.
Commercial Example: A business in Alberta stabilized its building using helical piers.
Challenging Projects: Helical piers have worked well in tough soil conditions when other methods failed.

How long do helical piers last? Helical piers usually last as long as the building does.
Can they be installed in winter? Yes, they can be put in during winter and other weather conditions.
Are helical piers good for new buildings? Yes, they work well for both new and old buildings.

Choosing a Contractor: Pick a contractor who is experienced and has good reviews. Ask for references and make sure they do a thorough job.
DIY Risks: Don’t try to install helical piers yourself. It requires special tools and skills.

Further Reading: For more information, visit our blog here.
Contact Information: For help, you can email us at support@foundationrepair.ca or call us at 1-800-FOUNDATION. We’re here to assist you!