Picking the right way to fix the base can make all the difference. Helical piers are one of the best options. They work especially well in places where the ground is unstable or where foundations are shifting. It’s important to understand the science behind helical pier installation if you want to fix your footing in Georgia, especially in cities like Atlanta. This guide explains in clear, step-by-step detail how helical piers are put in and what great benefits they have for both homes and businesses.
What Are Helical Piers?
Helical piers, which are sometimes called “screw piles,” are deep foundations that keep buildings stable and strong. The spiral-shaped blades (or “helices”) on these steel poles are driven into the ground to make a solid base. Because of its unique shape, the helix is a better way to distribute load than other means. Helical piers can be put in place in a wide range of soil conditions, even ones that aren’t very stable or have a lot of water in them. This makes them perfect for foundation repair or building from scratch.
Step 1: Site Assessment and Design
Before any installation begins, a comprehensive site assessment is conducted. The goal is to evaluate the type of soil, moisture levels, and overall foundation stability. A professional engineer uses this data to determine the ideal placement and depth of each helical pier. The Screw Piles Technical Overview plays a critical role in this stage, as it outlines the optimal specifications for load-bearing capacity based on the soil’s unique characteristics.
The right number of piers is also determined at this stage, as this will ensure adequate support for the structure. This step involves measuring the depth required to reach stable soil layers that will support the weight of the building or structure being repaired or constructed.
Step 2: Pier Installation
The installation starts as soon as the plan is complete. Helical props are put in place with special tools that drill holes in the ground for the helical shafts. Helical piers can be put in without causing too much damage to the area around them, unlike standard piers that need to be dug out.
The piers are pushed into the ground by a hydraulic motor that turns them like a screw. As the piers go deeper into the ground, the helices hold them in place. This moves the structure’s weight to the safe layers below the surface. This method is often faster than other foundation methods, and the piers can be put in place in any weather. This makes it the best way to fix a foundation in Georgia.
Step 3: Load Testing and Adjustment
Once the helical piers are in place, load testing is performed to ensure that each pier is providing the required support. This step ensures that the piers are able to bear the weight of the structure they are supporting without shifting or settling over time.
In many cases, the load tests are conducted by applying a controlled force to the pier and measuring its resistance. The results determine if additional adjustments or piers are needed to ensure the structure’s stability. Load testing helps to confirm that the installation is sound and that the foundation repair will last for many years to come.
Step 4: Connecting the Foundation
The next step in the helical pier installation process is the connection to the foundation. The top of each helical pier is fitted with a bracket or cap, which is then attached to the foundation of the structure. This bracket provides a secure connection between the foundation and the piers, ensuring that the weight of the structure is properly distributed across the piers.
In some cases, additional bracing or reinforcements may be added to provide further support, depending on the size and weight of the structure. Once the piers are securely connected, the foundation is stabilized, and the repair process is considered complete.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Cleanup
Once the installation is complete, one last check is made to make sure everything is working properly. This inspection ensures that the piers are properly aligned, the foundation is level, and there are no signs of shifting or settling. Cleanup follows, which includes removing any equipment and materials from the site, leaving the area in pristine condition.
The Benefits of Helical Piers
Helical piers Atlanta installation and benefits go beyond just providing a stable foundation. You can use these piers for both residential and business buildings, which makes them very useful. They are also good for the environment because they don’t need much digging and don’t cause as much damage to the nearby area. They are also stable over time, which makes them a cost-effective choice for companies and homes that need a permanent foundation.
Helical piers are much more resistant to water, corrosion, and changes in temperature than standard concrete foundations. This makes them perfect for places like Atlanta, where soil conditions can be very different. In addition, they can hold weight right away, which makes them faster and more effective than other options.
Conclusion
Helical piers represent an advanced, efficient solution for foundation repair and new construction projects. With their minimal disruption, speed of installation, and long-lasting results, they offer unparalleled stability for structures in areas like Atlanta. Understanding the science behind their installation ensures that you are making an informed decision when considering foundation repair or stabilization solutions. Whether you’re dealing with shifting soil or seeking a more sustainable foundation solution, helical piers are a reliable and effective option to safeguard your home or business for years to come.
