How to Install Screw Piles Under Existing Structure: Postech Lakes Region’s Expert Approach

Key Takeaways

• Stabilization Without Demolition: Screw piles can be installed under existing structures to stabilize foundations without major excavation or structural removal.
  
• Cost-Effective Solution: Installing screw piles under existing structures reduces the need for expensive foundation replacement.
  
• Rapid Installation: Projects can be completed quickly with minimal disruption to occupants.
  
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for homes, commercial buildings, decks, boardwalks, and industrial facilities.
  
• Durability: Galvanized steel screw piles provide long-lasting support in a wide range of soil conditions.

Understanding Screw Piles and Their Use Under Existing Structures

Screw piles, also known as helical piers, are steel shafts with helical plates welded along the shaft. These piles act like giant screws that are rotated into the ground to reach stable load-bearing soil. The primary benefit of screw piles is their ability to transfer structural loads from unstable soil layers to deeper, more stable soil or bedrock.

When you need to install screw piles under an existing structure, traditional foundation repair methods are often invasive, expensive, and time-consuming. Screw piles, on the other hand, allow for targeted support installation without the need to demolish or extensively excavate the existing foundation. This makes them an ideal solution for stabilizing older homes, commercial buildings, and other structures experiencing settlement or shifting soils.

Benefits of Installing Screw Piles Under Existing Structures

Installing screw piles under an existing structure offers numerous advantages, especially when compared to traditional foundation repair methods:

1. Minimized Disruption
   Screw pile installation requires limited excavation, which allows the structure to remain largely intact during the process. Occupants may continue using the building while work is completed.
   
2. Rapid Installation
   Professional contractors can install screw piles in hours or days, compared to weeks for concrete underpinning methods. This is particularly beneficial for commercial operations that cannot afford extended downtime.
   
3. Cost Efficiency
   Less labor, reduced material requirements, and faster project timelines translate to lower overall costs. Screw piles provide a durable, long-term solution without the expense of tearing out and replacing the entire foundation.
   
4. Structural Versatility
   Screw piles can support various loads and applications, including:
   • Residential homes
     
   • Commercial properties
     
   • Decks and porches
     
   • Boardwalks and piers
     
   • Industrial equipment foundations
5. Environmental Benefits
   Minimal soil disturbance preserves surrounding landscaping and reduces erosion. This is especially advantageous in sensitive areas where excavation could cause damage to the property or local environment.

Step-by-Step Process to Install Screw Piles Under Existing Structure

Installing screw piles under an existing structure requires careful planning and execution. Experienced contractors follow a systematic process to ensure safety and structural integrity.

Step 1: Site Assessment

• Evaluate soil type, load-bearing capacity, and water table levels.
  
• Identify obstacles and determine access points for machinery.
  
• Measure the foundation to determine the number and placement of screw piles.

Step 2: Structural Evaluation

• Inspect the existing structure for settlement, cracks, and areas of stress.
  
• Determine the weight distribution and load requirements for each pile.
  
• Identify areas that require immediate stabilization.

Step 3: Engineering Design

• Select the appropriate screw pile diameter, length, and helix size.
  
• Calculate the torque and depth needed to reach stable soil.
  
• Design pile layout to evenly distribute structural loads.

Step 4: Installation

• Use hydraulic machinery to rotate the piles into the ground.
  
• Monitor torque and depth to ensure proper bearing capacity.
  
• Install piles at precise locations under the existing foundation.

Step 5: Bracketing and Load Transfer

• Attach brackets to connect the screw piles to the existing foundation.
  
• Gradually transfer the structural load to the piles, lifting settled areas if necessary.
  
• Ensure all connections are level and secure.

Step 6: Final Inspection

• Verify that all piles are correctly installed and carrying the intended loads.
  
• Make adjustments if necessary to ensure structural integrity.
  
• Document the installation for future reference and maintenance.

Signs You Might Need to Install Screw Piles Under Existing Structure

Certain warning signs indicate the need for professional installation of screw piles under an existing structure:

1. Visible Foundation Cracks
   Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings often signal uneven settlement.
   
2. Uneven Floors
   Sloping or sagging floors indicate that parts of the foundation are not adequately supported.
   
3. Doors and Windows Not Closing Properly
   Misaligned frames are often a symptom of foundation movement.
   
4. Water Intrusion
   Basement leaks or flooding can weaken foundation soil and necessitate stabilization.
   
5. Soil Movement or Erosion
   Expansive clay, sandy soils, or erosion-prone areas increase the risk of foundation instability.

Advantages of Using Screw Pile Foundation Contractors

Hiring experienced screw pile foundation contractors ensures safety, precision, and durability. Key advantages include:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can screw piles be installed under any existing structure?
Yes, screw piles can be installed under homes, commercial buildings, decks, boardwalks, and industrial structures. Contractors assess soil conditions and load requirements to ensure suitability.

Q2: How long does installation take?
Installation typically takes a few days, depending on the number of piles and site conditions. Larger projects may require additional time for engineering and preparation.

Q3: Are screw piles more cost-effective than traditional foundation repair?
Yes. Reduced labor, faster installation, and minimal excavation make screw piles a cost-efficient solution compared to concrete underpinning or full foundation replacement.

Q4: Can screw piles lift settled areas?
Yes. Screw piles can be installed under settled sections of a foundation and gradually lifted to restore level floors and correct alignment issues.

Q5: How long do screw piles last?
With proper installation and maintenance, screw piles can last several decades. Galvanized steel construction provides excellent resistance to corrosion and environmental factors.

Applications of Installing Screw Piles Under Existing Structures

• Residential Homes: Stabilize older homes or prevent further settlement.
  
• Commercial Buildings: Provide support for offices, warehouses, or retail spaces.
  
• Decks and Porches: Reinforce structures exposed to weather and soil movement.
  
• Boardwalks and Piers: Ensure long-term stability in waterfront applications.
  
• Industrial Equipment: Support heavy machinery and prevent vibration damage.
  

Choosing the Right Contractor

When planning to install screw piles under an existing structure, choosing the right contractor is essential. Consider the following:

1. Experience and Expertise
   Contractors with a proven track record in screw pile installation understand soil mechanics, load calculations, and engineering requirements.
   
2. Equipment and Technology
   Modern hydraulic systems and monitoring equipment ensure precision and safety.
   
3. Certifications and Licensing
   Licensed contractors comply with building codes and safety standards.
   
4. References and Portfolio
   Reviewing previous projects demonstrates reliability and quality workmanship.
   
5. Comprehensive Services
   Full-service contractors provide site assessment, engineering, installation, and inspection, reducing project risks and errors.
   

If your building shows signs of settlement or foundation instability, trust the experts at Postech Lakes Region to install screw piles under existing structure. Our experienced team provides fast, cost-effective, and durable solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today at (603) 608-7636 or visit our website to schedule a consultation and get a free estimate.