The foundation of a building is one of the most essential aspects that any construction client must take into consideration. In South Florida, buildings must withstand various natural elements such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. Therefore, clients are in constant search of construction methods that provide strong and stable foundations. One of the most popular and effective foundation systems in South Florida is helical piers. In this post, we will explore the question what are helical piers, how they work, and their benefits for buildings in South Florida.

Helical piers, also known as screw piles, are deep foundation systems used to stabilize buildings on soft soils or uneven ground. They consist of a steel shaft with helices or blades attached to the bottom. These blades rotate as the pier is screwed deeper into the ground until they reach stable soil. This system is used in many construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Helical piers work by supporting the structure from the ground up, preventing it from sinking or settling. They distribute the building’s weight evenly across the pier’s length and the stable soil they anchor to. The helical blades of the pier displace soil as they are screwed into the ground, which creates an area of low-pressure soil around the pier. This pressure difference helps to keep the piers stable and further hold the structure.

South Florida is known for its soft and sandy soils, high water tables, and frequent storms that cause erosion and shifting of the ground. Helical piers can provide a solution to these challenges by stabilizing structures on these soils. Additionally, they have a quick installation process that may reduce construction time, and they do not require curing times like concrete, so they can be installed in almost any weather condition.

Another advantage is that they are environmentally friendly. They do not require excavation or disturbance of the ground, which means that the surrounding area remains undisturbed. Helical piers also last long, reducing the chances of your building experiencing structural issues.

These are an excellent foundation system for buildings in South Florida. They provide a strong and stable foundation while being environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. They can be used for various structures across South Florida, helping to ensure they are protected from natural elements such as hurricanes, flooding, and erosion. Our team at T-F Contracting, Inc. specializes in installation, and we can help you better assess whether helical piers are the right foundation for your project. Feel free to contact us for more information.