A Guide To Maintaining Your Helical Pile Foundation

A Guide To Maintaining Your Helical Pile Foundation

by | May 27, 2025 | Helical Piles

Helical piles have become a go-to solution for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Known for their quick installation, minimal site disruption, and impressive load-bearing capabilities, they offer a reliable alternative to traditional deep foundation systems.

But even the most durable foundations need occasional upkeep. Helical pile maintenance plays a critical role in ensuring long-term structural performance and preventing costly issues.

Let’s review the key aspects of maintaining your helical pile foundation—from routine inspections and corrosion prevention to signs of potential damage and when to call a professional. Whether maintaining an existing foundation or planning ahead, these tips will help keep your investment strong.

Why Helical Pile Maintenance Matters

Helical pile foundations are known for being low-maintenance, but low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Like any structural system, they’re exposed to environmental conditions, shifting soils, and general wear. Without regular upkeep, even minor issues can result in major structural problems.

Consistent helical pile maintenance helps protect your investment by:

  • Extending the lifespan of the foundation system
  • Preserving load-bearing performance
    Preventing corrosion, movement, or other damage before it spreads
  • Reducing the risk of emergency repairs or system failure

Whether your piles support a commercial building or industrial equipment, maintenance ensures your structure remains safe, stable, and code-compliant for years.

7 Key Aspects of Helical Pile Maintenance

Here are seven essential steps you can take to keep your helical pile foundation in top condition.

1. Perform Routine Visual Helical Pile Inspections

Routine visual inspections are the first and most accessible step in proper helical pile maintenance. These quick, low-cost checks help you catch early warning signs before they become bigger issues.

We recommend performing inspections at least once a year, or seasonally in areas with dramatic weather shifts. If your piles are exposed to harsh conditions, take time to look for:

  • Surface rust or corrosion, especially near welds or connection points
  • Soil shifting or erosion that may expose more of the pile or compromise its stability
  • Visible movement or tilt in any of the piles

These simple checks are your first line of defense in any helical pile inspection routine. If anything seems off, it’s time to bring in a professional for a closer look.

2. Prioritize Corrosion Prevention

Helical piles are typically galvanized or coated for durability, but corrosion can still occur, especially in wet, coastal, or chemically aggressive environments. Over time, corrosion weakens the pile’s structural integrity and can shorten the lifespan of your foundation if left unchecked.

Effective helical pile corrosion prevention starts with innovative design and continues with regular upkeep. According to NACE International, corrosion is a leading cause of structural degradation worldwide, costing billions. 

Here are a few best practices:

  • Apply or maintain protective coatings on any exposed steel components.
  • Ensure proper drainage around the foundation to prevent standing water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture by redirecting runoff or sealing vulnerable areas.

If corrosion is spotted during a visual inspection, take action immediately. Surface rust may be manageable, but deeper corrosion can compromise the entire system’s load-bearing capacity.

3. Monitor for Movement or Settlement

Even a well-installed helical pile foundation can shift over time due to changes in soil conditions, moisture content, or applied loads. Catching early signs of movement is critical to preventing more serious structural issues down the line.

Watch for indicators like:

  • Cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors
  • Doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly
  • Uneven or sloping floors
  • Visible pile tilt or displacement (if piles are exposed)

Movement doesn’t always mean failure—but it’s a strong signal that you need a more thorough helical pile inspection. Professional engineers or contractors can assess the root cause and recommend next steps, such as load adjustments or foundation reinforcement.

4. Control Vegetation Around the Foundation

Plants and landscaping might seem harmless, but overgrown vegetation can pose real risks to your helical pile foundation. Roots can disturb the surrounding soil, trap moisture near the piles, and even interfere with inspections or maintenance efforts.

To keep your foundation protected:

  • Trim back bushes, grasses, or tree roots near the foundation.
  • Avoid planting large trees or deep-rooted vegetation too close to the structure.
  • Maintain clear visibility and access to exposed piles for easy inspection and servicing.

Keeping the area clear not only helps prevent soil instability and water retention, but it also ensures that you or your contractor can easily monitor pile performance over time.

5. Address Damage Promptly With Helical Pile Repair

Don’t wait to act if you notice signs of damage during a routine inspection—whether it’s corrosion, movement, or visible cracking. Delaying repairs can allow minor issues to escalate into serious structural concerns that are more expensive and time-consuming to fix.

Common helical pile repair strategies include:

  • Reinforcing or replacing compromised piles
  • Adjusting load distribution to relieve pressure on weakened areas
  • Reapplying protective coatings to prevent further corrosion

In most cases, a qualified contractor can assess the situation and provide targeted repairs without replacing the entire foundation system. Quick action not only restores stability, but it also helps avoid more disruptive interventions down the road.

6. Schedule Professional Helical Pile Inspections

While visual checks are useful, some issues with pile foundations can’t be seen from the surface. That’s why scheduling periodic inspections with a qualified foundation expert is important, especially if your structure shows signs of settlement or aging.

Professional helical pile inspections may include:

  • Load testing to verify continued performance under structural demands
  • Corrosion assessments using tools that detect below-ground degradation
  • Soil evaluations to monitor changes that could impact foundation stability
  • Non-destructive testing methods to assess pile condition without excavation

A trained professional can provide a more complete picture of your foundation’s health and offer proactive recommendations to save you time, money, and risk in the long run.

7. Keep Detailed Maintenance Records

Ongoing helical pile maintenance doesn’t end with inspections and repairs; it also includes good documentation. Keeping accurate records ensures you can track changes over time and avoid potential issues.

Your maintenance log should include:

  • Dates and findings of all visual and professional inspections
  • Details of any repairs performed, including who completed them and why
  • Photos of the foundation at different points in time for visual comparison
  • Notes on environmental changes (ex., new landscaping, nearby construction, water drainage issues)

Well-kept records are helpful not just for maintenance—they’re valuable if you ever need to transfer ownership, pull permits, or work with contractors down the line. They show you’ve done your due diligence to protect your helical pile foundation.

Protect Your Investment with the Best Helical Pile Maintenance Partner

Staying ahead of maintenance is the best way to protect your helical pile foundation’s strength, stability, and longevity. When you need expert insight or hands-on support, Elite Helical is here to help. Whether you’re maintaining an existing system or starting from scratch, our team offers the experience, equipment, and commitment to get the job done right.

Contact Elite Helical today for expert helical pile inspection, maintenance, and repair services that protect your foundation for decades to come.

Helical Piles for Petrochemical Sump and Pipe Installation

Helical Piles for Petrochemical Sump and Pipe Installation

by | Apr 22, 2025 | Helical Piles

Petrochemical facilities operate in some of the most demanding environments in the industrial sector. From corrosive materials to heavy dynamic loads and strict safety regulations, every element—especially the foundation — must be engineered for long-term performance. 

Supporting sump floors and complex pipe networks in these settings often involves navigating unstable soils, limited access, and a need to minimize environmental disruption.

That’s why engineers and contractors are turning to helical piles. This foundation solution offers reliable, safe, and efficient support for sump and pipe installations — even in the most complex petrochemical projects. 

Why Petrochemical Facilities Require Specialized Foundation Support

Foundations in petrochemical environments aren’t one-size-fits-all. These facilities often face complex geotechnical and logistical challenges that require tailored solutions and expert execution. Here’s why petrochemical facilities need specialized foundation support: 

  • Unstable or challenging soil conditions
    Many petrochemical plants are built on sites with poor soil profiles, such as lean-to-fat clays or loose fill. These soils offer limited bearing capacity and can shift under load, making traditional foundation systems less effective or risk-prone over time.

  • Limited access and tight working conditions
    Existing infrastructure, high-traffic corridors, and strict safety zones make access extremely limited. Equipment size, noise, and vibration must be carefully controlled, especially around active systems or in operational facilities.

  • Need for minimal environmental disruption
    With hazardous materials and sensitive ecosystems often nearby, foundation work must be completed with minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment.

  • High structural demands for sump floors, pipe racks, and support bridges
    These components carry significant weight and must withstand dynamic loads, temperature fluctuations, and long-term wear.

How Helical Piles Solve Sump Support Challenges

Supporting a sump in a petrochemical facility requires more than just a strong foundation. It demands a system that can perform in unpredictable soil conditions, tight working spaces, and active job sites. Helical piles check all the boxes, offering a range of benefits that make them ideal for sump installations, including:

  • Deep, stable support in poor soils
    Helical piles are engineered to reach load-bearing strata well below weak or compressible soils. Their helical design allows them to “screw” into the ground, providing dependable support in conditions where traditional foundations might fail.

  • Fast installation to keep projects on schedule
    Time is money — especially in industrial environments. Helical piles can be installed quickly using compact equipment. This reduces project timelines and minimizes downtime for active operations.

  • Installation from grade level
    When deep excavation is required, such as for sump floors 20+ feet below grade, helical piles can be installed from the surface. This is especially valuable in sites with limited access or where excavation needs to be minimized for safety or logistical reasons.

  • Compatibility with earth retention systems
    Helical piles work seamlessly alongside other foundational systems like sheet piles. This makes them a strong choice for complex sump installations requiring structural support and earth retention.

Helical Piles for Petrochemical Pipe Support

Pipe systems are the lifelines of petrochemical facilities, and their supports need to be just as resilient. Whether retrofitting aging infrastructure or installing new pipe bridges, helical piles provide a strong, adaptable foundation solution.

  • Ideal for new installations or retrofits
    Helical piles are frequently used to support new pipe racks, bridges, and other elevated structures. They’re also well-suited for retrofitting existing supports that are failing or no longer meeting load requirements.

  • Versatile in tight, high-traffic areas
    Many pipe support locations are situated in active corridors or constrained plant zones. Helical piles can be installed using smaller equipment, making them ideal for sites with limited access or ongoing operations.

  • Customizable and minimally disruptive
    From custom pile sections to low-vibration installation methods, helical systems are designed to work around existing infrastructure without disrupting nearby processes or compromising safety.

For example, in a petrochemical facility, helical piles can be installed from grade to support deep sump and retrofit pipe foundations — all within an active corridor and with minimal site disturbance. These projects demonstrate how flexible and efficient helical piles can be, even in the most demanding industrial environments.

Why Choose Helical Piles for Your Petrochemical Project?

When it comes to foundation systems in petrochemical environments, you need a solution that performs under pressure. Helical piles offer a range of benefits that make them a smart choice for sump and pipe support:

Fast, non-invasive installation

Helical piles can be installed quickly and cleanly with minimal excavation, low vibration, and compact equipment. This is ideal for busy, high-risk environments.

Long-term durability and stability

Helical piles provide lasting support in challenging soil conditions, with proven load-bearing capabilities for compression and tension applications.

Adaptable to tough site conditions

From tight working corridors to deep excavations, helical piles are versatile enough to meet the needs of even the most complex petrochemical projects.

Lower environmental impact

Compared to traditional foundation methods, helical piles reduce site disruption, excavation, and soil displacement — aligning with environmental safety standards and sustainability goals.

Turnkey support with Elite Helical

At Elite Helical, we offer complete, start-to-finish support. From design aid and material supply to expert installation, our team ensures your project is built on a solid, dependable foundation.

Need Petrochemical Sump or Pipe Support? Let’s Talk

If you’re planning a sump or pipe support project in a petrochemical facility, the foundation system you choose matters. At Elite Helical, we specialize in customized helical pile solutions engineered to perform in the most challenging industrial environments.

With decades of experience, industry-leading safety practices, and the fastest response times in the business, our team is ready to help you build with confidence from design through installation.

Contact us today to learn how Elite Helical can support your next project with safer, faster, and smarter foundation solutions.

Static vs. Dynamic Helical Pile Load Testing

Static vs. Dynamic Helical Pile Load Testing

by | Dec 17, 2024 | Helical Piles

Helical pile load testing is a vital step in ensuring the success of any construction project. Whether for industrial facilities, oil and gas infrastructure, commercial developments, or transmission and distribution networks, it ensures that every pile delivers the necessary strength and durability.

At Elite Helical, we understand the importance of helical load pile testing and offer both static and dynamic testing solutions to meet each project’s unique requirements. But which is better? Read on to learn more. 

What is Helical Pile Load Testing?

Helical pile load testing assesses and verifies a pile’s ability to support the loads it will encounter under real-world conditions. It ensures that it meets the design expectations and safety standards required for the project.

Key Goals of Helical Pile Load Testing:

  • Ensure Structural Stability
    Load testing guarantees the pile can safely support the intended load without risk of failure and provides a strong foundation for the entire structure.
  • Verify Compliance with Engineering and Project Requirements
    Testing confirms that the pile meets all design and regulatory specifications and meets industry standards.
  • Predict Long-Term Performance
    Load testing evaluates how the pile will perform over time, helping to prevent settlement issues or unexpected failures as the structure ages.

Helical Pile Load Testing: Static vs. Dynamic

There are two primary methods of helical pile load testing: static load testing and dynamic load testing. Each method has its own advantages and recommended applications. 

Static Load Testing

Static load testing involves applying a constant or incremental load to a helical pile while monitoring its settlement over time. This method directly measures the pile’s response to sustained stress.

Testing Procedure:

  1. Incremental loads are applied using a hydraulic jack.
  2. Settlement is measured at each load increment to track how the pile responds.
  3. Results are analyzed to determine the pile’s ultimate load capacity and behavior under long-term stress.

Equipment Used:

  • Hydraulic jacks – to apply controlled loads.
  • Load cells – to measure the exact force applied.
  • Settlement monitoring systems – to record precise displacement data during testing.

Advantages:

  • Highly reliable and widely accepted for accuracy.
  • Directly measures settlement and capacity, ensuring precise data for design validation.

Disadvantages

  • The testing process requires careful setup and monitoring over an extended period, which can be lengthy. 
  • The need for large reaction frames or counterweights increases costs.

Static load testing is considered the gold standard due to its unmatched accuracy. It’s the ideal choice for projects that require highly detailed and precise performance data.

Dynamic Load Testing

Dynamic load testing evaluates the load-bearing capacity of a helical pile by measuring its response to dynamic forces, typically a hammer impact. It uses high-speed data acquisition and wave equation modeling to estimate the pile’s capacity.

Testing Procedure:

  1. A hammer or pile driver applies a dynamic force to the pile.
  2. Sensors, such as accelerometers and strain gauges, record the pile’s displacement and acceleration during impact.
  3. The collected data is analyzed using wave equation modeling to estimate the pile’s ultimate capacity.

Equipment Used:

  • Pile driving hammers – deliver controlled dynamic impacts.
  • Accelerometers – measure acceleration during the hammer impact.
  • Strain gauges – record stress and strain on the pile during testing.

Advantages:

  • Dynamic load testing can be completed more quickly than static testing, saving time and reducing costs on large-scale projects.
  • Dynamic testing can test numerous piles in projects with repetitive foundation needs at the same time.

Disadvantages:

  • Proper execution and interpretation demand advanced tools and experienced personnel.
  • Results depend on wave equation modeling and may not provide the same level of detail as static testing.

Dynamic load testing is a good option for projects prioritizing speed and cost efficiency, particularly those involving many piles. 

Static vs. Dynamic Load Testing: How to Choose?

Selecting the appropriate load testing method for your project depends on several key factors. Here’s how to determine which approach is best for your needs:

Project Requirements

Static Load Testing:

Ideal for projects that demand highly detailed data on load-settlement behavior. Best for critical structures where precision is paramount.

Dynamic Load Testing:

A better choice for large-scale projects where testing many piles efficiently is a priority, offering a balance of speed and cost-effectiveness.

Site Conditions

Static Load Testing:

Better suited for soft or variable soils where settlement is a key concern.

Dynamic Load Testing:

Preferred in uniform soil conditions or when piles are installed in stable ground.

Budget & Timeline

Static Load Testing:

More expensive and time-intensive, but it provides unmatched accuracy, making it a worthwhile investment for high-stakes applications.

Dynamic Load Testing:

Provides significant cost and time savings, especially for projects with tight schedules or limited budgets.

Trust Elite Helical for Your Load Testing Needs

With over 50 years of combined experience, Elite Helical is your trusted partner for reliable helical pile load testing solutions. Whether you need the precision of static load testing or the speed and efficiency of dynamic load testing, we deliver results that meet your project’s unique requirements.

Contact Elite Helical to discuss your load testing needs and discover why we’re the top choice for helical pile solutions.

Helical Piles vs Driven Piles

Helical Piles vs Driven Piles

by | Jun 24, 2024 | Helical Piles

Foundation systems are the backbone of any construction project, ensuring that buildings will stand securely. Helical piles and driven piles both provide structural support for construction projects by transferring structural loads to deeper and stable soil layers. To promote longevity of a structure, the choice of foundation method must be appropriately evaluated. Find out how helical piles and driven piles differ in their design and installation methods to make the choice for your project.

What are Helical Piles?

Helical piles leverage simple mechanical principles to provide a reliable foundational support. They screw into the ground with the help of hydraulic machinery. Using a central galvanized steel shaft with helical flights, the blades displace soil to create a stable foundation. Their design and installation process allows for flexibility, making them an excellent choice for many construction projects.

Helical blades are suitable for lighter structural loads. Both the helices bearing against soil and friction along the shaft are used to support loads. They can be used in versatile soil types but they are most successful in clay, sand, and soft soils. The use of rotational machinery exerts minimal force on the surrounding soil. This reduces disturbance to the surrounding environment.

The installation process for helical piles is relatively fast since it requires only a few resources. After the soil condition is evaluated, the helical screw is positioned and screwed into the ground until it reaches its targeted depth. The diameter, pitch, and number of plates can be customized according to the specific load requirements and soil conditions of a project. If a deeper depth condition is necessary, extensions can be added to the central shaft.

Helical Piles vs Screw Piles

Screw piles and helical piles refer to the same type of foundation system featuring a central shaft with helical plates. The use of the two terms usually comes down to your region’s preference.

What are Driven Piles?

Driven piles use force and vibration to provide support for structures. They can be made of different types of materials to accommodate various load requirements and soil conditions. Steel and concrete piles are most sturdy and can be driven to great depths. Driven piles may be useful in challenging ground conditions because of their durability.

Even the most robust structures such as industrial facilities can be supported by driven piles. However, their installation can cause complications to the nearby soil and groundwater. The driving process also generates significant noise and vibration, which can be disruptive. Driven piles rely on friction and require heavy equipment for installation. Driven piles may require a more labor-intensive and time-consuming setup, meaning they are not cost-effective for most projects.

Engineers calculate soil conditions and load requirements to develop an adequate pile driving plan. Then, driven piles are installed through impact by being hammered into the ground. They compact surrounding soil to provide heavy load-bearing support. When working with highly compacted soil, pre-drilling may be required. They are a common pile choice in hard soils, but consequently have a harsh impact on the environment. 

Are Helical Piles or Driven Piles Better?

Both screw piles and driven piles provide a durable base when properly implemented and designed to fit the specific needs of your project. Screw piles are often preferred for their low-disruption installation. Steel and concrete driven piles are particularly robust, however, this may be at the cost of the surrounding environment. The best pile choice is dependent upon the specific project and soil conditions. By evaluating these factors, your construction project can stand the test of time.

Elite Helical will help you understand best practices for helical pile foundation design and installation. Need more support determining helical pile spacing and soil bearing capacity calculations? Contact us today to discuss how a helical pile foundation can support your next industrial construction project.

Unlocking Construction Costs: Factors Influencing the Cost of Helical Piles

Unlocking Construction Costs: Factors Influencing the Cost of Helical Piles

by | Apr 12, 2024 | Helical Piles

Helical piles have become a cornerstone in modern construction for industrial projects and are highly favored for their ease of installation and minimal environmental impact. Uncover the driving forces behind helical pile costs and explore how investing in them can yield long-term project benefits and savings.

Exploring the Cost Factors of Helical Piles

Understanding the financial aspect of helical piles is paramount for project planners. The average cost of helical piles can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, industry application, and the complexity of installation. 

Industrial Applications and Their Cost Implications

  • Industrial Industry: Facilities such as petrochemical, refining, pulp & paper, and terminals usually require robust foundation solutions. In these cases, helical piles provide a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to traditional foundations.
  • Oil & Gas: For pipelines, compressor stations, facilities, and rig supports, helical piles offer a flexible and less site-intrusive option. These applications might see costs adjusting due to the scale and accessibility of the installation sites.
  • Transmission & Distribution: The renewable energy sector, including solar power plants and electrical substations, increasingly prefers helical piles for their ability to minimize environmental impact. Projects such as battery storage and cellular towers also utilize helical pile technology for reduced installation time.

Understanding the Variables: What Affects the Cost of Helical Piles?

When planning for the installation of helical piles, it’s essential to understand that multiple factors contribute to the overall costs. 

On average, a single helical pile can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, a variance mostly attributed to the pile’s size, design, and total depth required.

These components combined will shape your project’s cost and should be carefully considered during the planning phase. Let’s examine what dictates helical piles cost.

Size and Load Requirements

The importance of a foundation tailored to specific project needs cannot be overstated. This is where size and design considerations come into play:

  • Determining the right size and design based on project needs ensures that the foundation is optimized for performance and cost efficiency.
  • Load requirements significantly impact helical pile costs because they dictate the scale and strength of the materials used.

Soil Conditions

  • Different soil types can alter pricing—utilizing pre-construction soil borings is necessary to pinpoint pile shaft size and depths.

Labor Costs

  • Average labor rates for helical pile installation vary regionally and must be factored into the overall cost.
  • Project complexity and the expertise required can further influence labor costs.

Customization and Specialized Design

  • When customization is necessary, expect an increase in costs to accommodate specialized designs and engineering demands.
  • The level of customization necessary will have a proportional impact on the overall cost of the project.

Comparison with Traditional Foundations

Cost benefits: When compared to concrete foundations, helical piles often emerge as the clear winner in terms of cost-effectiveness. Not only do they require less material, but they also necessitate a reduced workforce and minimize downtime.

Retrofitting advantages: Helical piles are particularly advantageous for replacement and retrofitting projects, as they can be installed with minimal disruption to existing structures and can significantly reduce costs.

Long-Term Savings with Helical Piles

When considering the costs associated with foundation solutions, it’s crucial to look beyond the initial price tag. Helical piles offer a unique advantage in this regard. Their durability and longevity not only ensure the stability of your project but also translate into significant long-term cost savings.

Durable Foundations Lead to Reduced Expenditure

The exceptional resilience of helical piles against environmental stressors means they require less maintenance and fewer repairs over their lifespan. By minimizing the frequency and severity of maintenance interventions, the long-term savings can be substantial, often offsetting the initial investment in helical pile installation.

Moreover, the life expectancy of helical piles can outlast other foundation methods, ensuring that the cost benefits continue to be present over many years. A well-designed and properly installed helical pile system can remain functional for decades, making it an excellent investment for projects where longevity is a priority.

  • Durability reduces the need for costly repairs
  • Longevity outperforms other foundation systems
  • Lifetime cost benefits aid in offsetting initial expenses

Understanding the Cost of Helical Piles

While the initial cost of helical piles may appear daunting, their long-term performance and resulting cost savings underscore their value as a foundation solution.

From installation costs to soil conditions and customization complexities, we’ve explored the factors shaping the financial commitment to helical piles. Geographical location, labor, and materials also play crucial roles, highlighting the multitude of elements influencing the total cost.

It’s essential not to overlook the long-term benefits of helical piles amid upfront pricing considerations. Their enduring stability, minimal maintenance needs, and resilience to environmental challenges make them a wise investment compared to traditional methods. The return on investment, both financially and environmentally, becomes evident.

While the initial costs are undeniable, a comprehensive evaluation considers immediate expenses and sustainable benefits.  Key considerations include:

  • Evaluating the total cost of ownership beyond the purchase price.
  • Balancing short-term expenditures with long-term savings.

Helical piles emerge as a compelling choice for a cost-efficient foundation. With a thorough understanding of potential costs and the assurance of enduring value, stakeholders can make informed decisions that enhance structural integrity and long-term financial viability.

How Deep Can Helical Piles Go? & Other FAQs

How Deep Can Helical Piles Go? & Other FAQs

by | Feb 21, 2024 | Helical Piles

Helical piles, also known as screw piles, are innovative foundation solutions that have gained popularity in construction and engineering projects. These versatile piles offer several advantages, such as ease of installation, minimal environmental impact, and high load-bearing capacity. As more people turn to helical piles for their foundation needs, it’s essential to address some common questions that arise. 

In this post, we’ll explore the most frequently asked questions our team gets from industry professionals. Click the links below to skip to your question/answer of interest, or scroll to read the full article.

How Deep Can Helical Piles Go? 

What Types of Soil Are Suitable for Helical Piles?

How Are Helical Piles Installed?

What Load Capacity Can Helical Piles Support?

Are Helical Piles Suitable for Retrofitting?

Can Helical Piles Be Used in Seismic Areas?

What Is the Environmental Impact of Helical Piles?

Are Helical Piles Cost-effective?

Can Helical Piles Be Removed and Reused?

Are Helical Piles Resistant to Corrosion? 

How Long Do Helical Piles Last?

How Deep Can Helical Piles Go? 

One of the primary advantages of helical piles is their adaptability to various soil conditions. The depth to which helical piles can be installed depends on factors such as soil type, load requirements, and project specifications. 

Generally, helical piles can be installed to depths ranging from 10 feet to over 100 feet. The helical design allows them to penetrate deep into the ground while providing superior stability.

What Types of Soil Are Suitable for Helical Piles?

Helical piles are suitable for a wide range of soil types, making them a versatile foundation solution. Whether it’s cohesive soils like clay, granular soils such as sand, or mixed soils, helical piles can be customized to meet the specific requirements of the project. Their adaptability makes them an excellent choice for projects with varying soil conditions.

How Are Helical Piles Installed?

The installation process for helical piles is relatively straightforward and efficient. A hydraulic torque motor is used to drive the helical piles into the ground, creating minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment. 

The torque required for installation depends on the soil conditions and the load-bearing capacity needed. The helical piles are carefully monitored during installation to ensure they reach the desired depth and provide the required support.

What Load Capacity Can Helical Piles Support?

Helical piles are known for their impressive load-bearing capacity. The design of the helical plates allows them to distribute the load evenly, making them suitable for both compression and tension applications. 

Load capacity can vary based on factors such as pile size, helix configuration, and soil conditions. Engineers and contractors work together to determine the appropriate helical pile specifications to meet the specific load requirements of a project.

Are Helical Piles Suitable for Retrofitting?

Yes, helical piles are an excellent choice for retrofitting existing structures. Whether it’s due to foundation settlement, natural disasters, soil instability, or other issues, helical piles can provide additional support and stability. The installation process is minimally invasive, making it a practical solution for retrofitting without major disruptions to the existing structure.

Can Helical Piles Be Used in Seismic Areas?

Yes, helical piles can be designed to withstand seismic forces, making them suitable for projects located in seismic-prone regions. Engineers consider factors such as soil type, seismic design parameters, and project specifications to customize helical pile solutions that meet the necessary seismic requirements.

What Is the Environmental Impact of Helical Piles?

Helical piles are considered environmentally friendly due to their minimal impact on the surrounding soil and ecosystem. The installation process generates less noise and vibration compared to traditional foundation methods. 

Additionally, the use of helical piles often reduces the need for excavation and the associated environmental disruption.

Are Helical Piles Cost-effective?

The cost of helical piles depends on various factors, including project size, soil conditions, and load requirements. While the initial cost may be higher than some traditional foundation methods, the time saved during installation, reduced labor costs, and adaptability to different soil types often result in overall cost savings.

Can Helical Piles Be Removed and Reused?

In some cases, helical piles can be removed and reused for other projects. The ease of extraction depends on factors such as soil conditions, installation depth, and the specific design of the helical pile. Reusing helical piles can provide a sustainable solution and contribute to cost savings on future projects.

Are Helical Piles Resistant to Corrosion? 

Helical piles are typically made of high-quality materials such as galvanized or coated steel to resist corrosion. However, the resistance to corrosion can vary depending on the environmental conditions of the project site. Engineers consider factors such as soil composition and moisture levels to ensure the longevity and durability of helical piles in different settings.

How Long Do Helical Piles Last?

Helical piles can last 100 years or more. Most contractors estimate a lifespan of around 150 years, but some helical piles have even lasted 300+ years. This is well over the expected lifespan of other popular foundational solutions like stone (100 years), slab concrete (80 years), ICF blocks (75 years), and wood (25 years). 

Factors that influence helical pile lifespan may include:

  • Helical pile material
  • Load-bearing capacity calculations
  • Soil conditions
  • Location/environment

Have a Question You Didn’t See Answered Here? Contact Us

If you have additional questions or would like to learn more about how helical piles can benefit your project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. As a turnkey solutions provider, we’re here to help you every step of the way — from testing and planning to fabrication, installation, and beyond.