Want to know more about this unique foundation solution for projects in Western New York? Find answers to the most-asked questions right here!
Helical pile foundations are a type of deep foundation system that are comprised of a steel shaft (round or solid square), which contain one or more helix plates. These helix plates allow the piles to be smoothly rotated into the ground without causing disturbance or disruption to the soil.
The result is a deep foundation that can be installed at a record pace, is ready for immediate loading, and can deliver significant load capacities even in highly saturated and loose soils. Plus, they're incredibly resistant to frost heave or movement, making them an ideal option for shoreline construction.
They've become well-known and loved across the United States (and the world) for their efficiency, strength, and versatility.
Helical piles transfer a structure's load down through the pile shaft and into the helix plates. Once installed to the appropriate depth, soil pressure on these helix plates locks the pile in place and prevents movement up or down.
A few of the benefits of this method are:
There's a substantial range of benefits you can enjoy with a helical pile foundation, but some of the big ones are:
Pretty much, yes! Helical piles can be used in a huge selection of soil conditions, from loose sands to dense clay. Generally speaking, the only soils which do not work for helical piles are those where bedrock is close to the surface or heavily-cobbled conditions.
In fact one of the major benefits of a helical foundation is the ability to adapt to varied soils - especially useful in the conditions found here in Western New York.
The ultimate lifespan of a helical pile foundation will depend on factors like soil acidity, water levels, and other corrosive factors. However, a properly designed and installed helical pile should have no problems lasting anywhere from 50 to well over 100 years in average soil conditions.
If corrosion is a concern, helical piles can be given protective coatings or use cathodic protection to ensure the design life is easily met (and even exceeded).
The big question on almost everyone's mind, are helical piles a good deal? In many cases, the answer is an absolute yes!
While the initial cost of a helical foundation may seem higher, they're a more economical foundation overall. Because they're installed significantly faster, require dramatically less site prep, are highly efficient, and will last for decades, the total cost can be much less than other solutions.
Remember, it's not just about the "sticker price" of your foundation. It's what that foundation costs over the entire lifespan of your project. And on that point, helical piles take the win thanks to their excellent efficiency.