What Is Foundation Piering? How It Works & Benefits
There are a number of reasons why a foundation becomes unstable, and one of the most common is soil instability. When a building is constructed on soil that is too weak to support the structure, or soil that expands when wet and shrinks when dry, the ground can shift. When the soil shifts, so does the foundation. Foundation piering is a foundation stabilization method that uses steel posts, or foundation piers, to support and stabilize the foundation. It’s one of the safest and most effective ways to stabilize a shifting foundation and restore the structural integrity of a building.
The Foundation Piering Process
A qualified geotechnical designer determines the number of steel piers necessary to stabilize the structure. The piers are either screwed in (helical piers) or pushed through the weak soil (hydraulically driven piers) until they reach stronger, more stable soil. The piers are then secured to the house.
Benefits of Foundation Piering
Foundation piering is a long-term solution for unstable foundations, effectively placing your foundation on ultra-durable steel piers. Here are a few other advantages of foundation piering:
- It can cost up to ten times less than replacing the building’s foundation.
- There’s no cure time, unlike the process with concrete-poured piers.
- Installation is fast and minimally disruptive.
Expert Foundation Piering Service For Georgia Property Owners
As one of the leading foundation repair companies in the Southeast, Engineered Solutions of Georgia offers both residential and commercial foundation piering services, using helical piers and hydraulically driven piers. Not only are we experts in foundation piering, but we are also dedicated to educating our customers about foundation issues and foundation maintenance. To learn more about our foundation piering services, contact us today.
Foundation Piers FAQs
What are foundation piers?
Foundation piers are steel supports used to stabilize and support a foundation affected by unstable or shifting soil. Depending on the needs of the structure and site conditions, foundation piers may be helical piers that are screwed into the ground or hydraulically driven piers that are pushed through weak soil until they reach stronger, more stable soil.
What is basement piering?
Basement piering is a foundation repair method used to stabilize a basement or foundation affected by settlement or unstable soil. Steel piers are installed through or alongside the foundation and extended into stronger soil to provide additional structural support. The appropriate piering method depends on the condition of the foundation, soil conditions, and the structure.
How does foundation piering work?
Foundation piering works by transferring the weight of a structure through steel piers and into stronger, more stable soil. Depending on the site, helical piers are screwed into the ground or hydraulically driven piers are pushed through weaker soil. Once the piers reach suitable supporting soil, they are secured to the foundation to provide additional stability.
How do I know if my foundation needs piers?
Signs that a foundation may need piers include significant foundation settlement, recurring cracks in foundation walls or floors, uneven floors, sticking doors or windows, and other signs of structural movement. A qualified foundation professional can evaluate the structure and soil conditions to determine whether foundation piering is an appropriate repair solution.
