What are Helical Piers?

If you are looking for a foundation repair solution that is both affordable and durable, helical piers may be the answer you are looking for. Helical piers are screws that are inserted into the ground and used to support foundations. They have been used for years to stabilize structures such as bridges and buildings. Over time, they have become a popular choice for foundation repair. Let's look at how helical piers work and some of their benefits!

what are helical piers

Understanding Helical Piers and How They Work

A helical pier (sometimes called a screw pile or helical anchor) is a heavy-duty steel shaft equipped with round, screw-like plates called helices.

Instead of relying on unstable surface dirt, these heavy-duty steel shafts are driven deep into the earth using specialized hydraulic equipment. They wind deep into the ground until they reach firm, load-bearing soil or bedrock far below your home. Once anchored, heavy-duty brackets attach the pier to your foundation, lifting and holding your home permanently in place.

Helical piers can be used to fix a variety of foundation problems, including:

Helical Piers and How They Are Used in Residential Foundation Repair

Helical piers are most commonly used to repair foundations damaged by foundation settlement. Settlement occurs when the soil underneath your foundation loses its ability to support the weight of the foundation. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

  • The soil was not compacted properly before the foundation was built.
  • The foundation was built on fill dirt or organic material, which can settle over time.
  • There has been a change in the water table, causing the soil to become saturated and unable to support the weight of the foundation.

How Are Helical Piers Installed?

One major advantage of helical piers is their clean, efficient installation process. While every property is unique, a typical installation involves four simple steps:

  1. Excavation: A technician carefully digs a small area around the foundation access points.

  2. Placement: The steel shaft is positioned and mechanically driven into the ground using hydraulic tools.

  3. Deep Anchoring: The pier is rotated until it hits stable, load-bearing strata deep below the active soil zone.

  4. Bracket Attachment: Steel brackets are attached to the top of the pier and secured under your foundation wall to stabilize or lift the structure back into position.

Commonly Asked Questions about Helical Piers

How Much do Helical Piers Cost?

Helical piers typically cost between $500 and $1500 per pier. The cost of helical piers will vary depending on the number of piers that are needed, the depth of the piers, and the difficulty of the installation.

How Long do Helical Piers Last?

Helical piers are designed to last for the life of the structure. However, they may need to be replaced or repaired if the foundation experiences any changes.

How Deep do Helical Piers Go?

Helical piers can be installed at any depth. However, they must be installed deep enough so that they can provide adequate support for the foundation. The depth of the helical piers will depend on the type of foundation, the weight of the structure, and the soil conditions.

Pros of Helical Piers:

  • They're versatile - helical piers can be used for a variety of applications, both residential and commercial.
  • They're strong - helical piers can support heavy loads, making them ideal for repairing foundations.
  • They're easy to install - helical piers can be installed quickly and easily, without causing any damage to your property.

Cons of Helical Piers:

  • They're not always the cheapest option - helical piers can be more expensive than other foundation repair methods.
  • They require a skilled installer - helical piers should be installed by a professional to ensure that they are installed properly and safely.

Overall, helical piers are a reliable and effective way to stabilize and repair foundations. If you're considering foundation repair, helical piers should be at the top of your list.

Restore Strength to Your Home's Foundation

You don't have to guess when it comes to your home's structural safety. Evaluating your foundation early prevents small cracks from turning into major structural repairs down the road.

At My Foundation Repairs, we connect homeowners and business owners with qualified, certified local contractors who evaluate your property, diagnose root causes, and install proven foundation products.

Find a Certified Local Contractor & Request a Free Inspection

Explore Flexible Foundation Repair Financing Options