Benefits of Helical Piles
There are many benefits of helical piles foundation systems. They have become a popular choice among architects, contractors, structural engineers, and builders. Helical piles, also referred to as helical piers or screw piles, are commonly used for different types of deep foundation solutions.
As one of the industry leaders in manufacturing steel piling products, we have the knowledge and products for your deep foundation project. In this article, we are going to review the applications as well as a few of the benefits of helical piles.
Helical Pile Applications
MAGNUM® helical piles are used to transfer loads from the soil near the surface to deeper, more suitable load-bearing bed below. Helical piles are commonly used in conjunction with various foundation attachments. One such attachment are Angle Brackets which underpin the foundations of existing structures. Helical piles are usually installed vertically, as for supporting gravity loading. They may be installed at an angle if necessary to help stabilize the foundation against lateral loads. They also are used to underpin distressed foundations but can be used to support light loads such as wing walls, interior floors and porch slabs as well as heavier ones such as single- and multi-story structures.
The Benefits of Helical Piles
As you may know from some of our previous posts, helical piles are great for building foundations in the sand and other challenging soils. However, there are plenty of other benefits.
Quick Installation
Due to their size, helical piles do not require special equipment like cranes to be transported. Installation is surprisingly quick and easy and is not dependent on weather conditions. What’s more, helical piles and anchor systems are unique. In comparison to other types of foundation systems, there is no wait time for concrete or other materials to set and harden. Helical pile systems can bare load immediately after installation.
Eco-Friendly
Helical piles come with the benefit of minimal-to-no site damage. Screw-pile systems do not require soil cutting, which helps keep the project site clean and intact. No need for heavy equipment means minimal ground vibration. This is a must have for some areas that are environmentally sensitive. Helical piles can be installed, left in place for years, then removed and reused at another site leaving little-to-no impact on the original area.
Load Bearing Capabilities
When repairing the foundation of a structure, it is essential that there is plenty of stability. While push piles stability and resistance can be limited, helical piles provide much more capability for remaining stable during the process of foundation repair.
Increased Versatility
Helical pile systems are traditionally installed vertically, but this does not define their limitations. These systems are incredibly versatile in their ability to be rearranged to several orientations. They will fit the needs of any foundation project. They can be installed horizontally to assist in earth-retaining projects and can easily be fitted for lateral loading. Additionally, state-of-the-art technology of helical piles allows them to be easily configured to increase load capacity, by simply adding helical plates into the mix.
Cost-Effective
Helical piles are easy to transport and install. They generally save architects, contractors, structural engineers, and builders some money from this quality. The helical pile installation process also reduces the mess and project cleanup. There is no threat to long-term spending as maintenance or upkeep is not required. What’s more, these systems are reusable, recyclable and transferable, adding to both economic and environmentally friendliness.
Excellent Precision
Accuracy is crucial when repairing the foundation of a structure. Helical piles offer a lot when it comes to this. When installed, handheld equipment is used that allows you to see exactly how much resistance and how much torque is being used. The extra precision of these piles allows for the job to be done with great results each and every time.
The benefits of helical piles for deep foundation solutions are numerous. However, the solution is only as quality as the type of helical piles you use. If you want the best helical piles for the foundation project your business works, contact MAGNUM® Piering.
We are committed to supplying our clients with only high-quality products and materials that they need for a job well-done. To learn more about MAGNUM® helical piles, contact us today