Types of Foundation Piers

As a homeowner, one of the most important investments you can make is protecting your foundation. The stability of your home relies heavily on the foundation’s structural integrity. Foundation piers play a crucial role in reinforcing weak or damaged foundations, preventing further deterioration and safeguarding your home.

Driven Piers

• Driven piers are steel pipes that are driven deep into the ground using a hydraulic ram.
• They are ideal for supporting heavy loads and are commonly used for commercial buildings and homes built on unstable soil.
• Driven piers transfer the weight of the structure to deeper, more stable soil layers.

Helical Piers

• Helical piers are steel shafts with spiral blades attached to the base.
• They are screwed into the ground using specialized equipment, allowing for precise installation and minimal disruption.
• Helical piers are suitable for a wide range of soil conditions and can be used to raise or level foundations.
• They are less invasive than driven piers, making them a good option for residential properties with limited access.

Push Piers

• Push piers are hydraulically driven steel cylinders that are pushed into the ground.
• The piers are then filled with concrete to increase their strength and load-bearing capacity.
• Push piers are designed to support heavy structures and are often used for underpinning foundations.
• They are installed by excavating a small hole and then pushing the pier into place.

Belled Piers

• Belled piers are concrete piers with a flared base.
• The flared base creates a wider load-bearing surface, making them suitable for soft or unstable soils.
• Belled piers are constructed by drilling a hole into the ground, placing the concrete, and then excavating the soil around the pier to create the bell shape.

Choosing the right type of foundation pier for your home depends on several factors, including the soil conditions, the weight of the structure, and the budget. A professional foundation repair contractor can assess your foundation and recommend the most suitable pier type for your specific needs.