A sinking foundation can jeopardize the structural integrity of your residential or commercial building. If left unaddressed, it may lead to severe damage or even structural failure. The good news is that foundation repair solutions like helical piers and push piers are effective at stabilizing and restoring your foundation.
But what’s the difference between these two systems, and which one is the best choice for your project? Let’s dive in.
What are Helical Piers?
Helical piers, also known as helical piles or screw piles, are steel foundation anchors designed to support or resist loads transferred into the pile by any structure. This load can be tension, compression, lateral, or a combination of all three. Their distinctive design resembles a giant screw or auger, enabling them to be “screwed” deep into the soil until they reach stable ground or bedrock.
- Installation Process: A helical foundation pier is installed using hydraulic-powered equipment, such as a skid steer or mini-excavator, for residential projects, or larger excavators for commercial applications. Installation is precise and minimally invasive.
- Ideal Applications: Helical piers are suitable for lightweight structures that are settling or sinking, including sunrooms, porches, entryways, decks, and three-season rooms. They are also ideal in cases where soil conditions are less stable.
- Advantages:
- Versatility in different soil conditions, including clay, sand, and rocky soil
- Helical pier installers can complete installation faster and cause minimal disruption to landscaping or the surrounding environment
- Provides immediate load-bearing support upon installation
- Permanent and reliable solution for foundation problems
Helical piers are particularly advantageous in scenarios requiring precise installation torque for maximum stability. Their design ensures deep anchoring, making them an excellent choice for lighter structures where the load-bearing capacity is critical.
What are Push Piers?
Push piers, also referred to as resistance piers, are cylindrical steel rods hydraulically driven into the ground using the weight of the structure to provide stability. These piers are driven until they reach load-bearing soil or bedrock, offering significant structural support for heavier structures.
- Installation Process: Push piers rely on the building’s weight to “push” the piers into the ground. A bracket system is attached to the foundation, and hydraulic cylinders drive the piers into the soil until resistance is achieved.
- Ideal Applications: Push piers are best suited for heavier structures, such as large residential buildings, commercial properties, or structures with deep foundation system requirements.
- Advantages:
- Highly effective for stabilizing and lifting heavier buildings
- Can reach deep, stable soil layers to support significant weight
- Cost-effective for projects involving substantial structural loads
Precision is critical when using push piers. Incorrect installation, especially for lighter structures, can cause the foundation to lift prematurely, leading to potential structural damage.
Key Differences Between Helical Piers and Push Piers
Push piers, also referred to as resistance piers, are cylindrical steel rods hydraulically driven into the grThe primary differences between helical piers and push piers lie in their installation methods, load capacities, and ideal applications. Here’s a breakdown:
- Helical Piers
- Installation Method – Screwed into the soil using hydraulic torque
- Best For – Lightweight structures
- Soil Compatibility – Works in a variety of soil types
- Load Capacity – Immediate load-bearing capacity
- Disturbance – Minimal impact on soil and landscaping
- Push Piers
- Installation Method – Pushed into the ground using the structure’s weight
- Best For – Heavier structures
- Soil Compatibility – Requires stable soil for proper resistance
- Load Capacity – Dependent on building weight
- Disturbance – Moderate disturbance during installation
When deciding between these two systems, soil conditions, the weight of the structure, and the specific needs of your construction project or repair should guide the choice.
Choosing Between Helical Pier vs. Push Pier
For existing buildings experiencing foundation problems, the choice between push piers vs. helical piers typically depends on the structure’s weight and soil stability:
- Choose Helical Piers if:
- Your structure is relatively lightweight (e.g., decks, porches, or small residential additions)
- You need a faster, less invasive solution
- The soil conditions require precise installation and stability
- Choose Push Piers if:
- Your building is heavy, such as a commercial property or multi-story residence
- You need deep stabilization due to unstable upper soil layers
Still not sure which option is best for you? Don’t worry! When you call USS for foundation repair, our team of professionals will examine your foundation and soil type and determine which pier would work best.
Why It’s Important to Hire Professional Push Pier & Helical Pier Installers
Both push piers and helical piers require careful assessment of soil conditions, load-bearing requirements, and the specific needs of the structure. Mistakes during push pier or helical pier installation can result in structural damage, increased repair costs, and long-term instability. That’s why it’s crucial to hire experienced professionals like us.
Call Professional Foundation Repair Experts
At United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc., we specialize in providing tailored foundation repair solutions, including both helical pier installation and push pier installation. We have decades of experience, having served residential and commercial clients in the Chicago area since 1995. We’re equipped to determine the best method for your specific project.
Don’t wait for a small problem to turn into a major issue. Call us today at 847-382-2882 if you have any questions or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation.
Photo Gallery
Below are a few additional photos from our push pier and helical pier installation jobs. Visit our project gallery to see and learn more about some of our most successful and favorite projects.
