Which Foundation Solution Should You Choose?
The debate between screw piles vs concrete piles has been a question that has been debated year after year. Both options offer distinct advantages and are commonly used in various projects, from residential homes to large-scale industrial developments. But which one is the superior choice for your specific needs? Let’s delve into the comparison of screw piles versus concrete piles to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Screw Piles Vs Concrete Piles
Screw Piles
Screw piles, also known as helical piles or screw anchors, are innovative foundation solutions that offer numerous benefits. They consist of a steel shaft with helical flights that are mechanically twisted into the ground. This helical design provides excellent load-bearing capacity, making screw piles suitable for a wide range of soil conditions, including soft, sandy, and rocky terrain.
One of the key advantages of screw piles is their ease of installation. Unlike concrete piles, which require extensive excavation and curing time, screw piles can be installed quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment. Additionally, screw piles are versatile and can be easily removed and reused, making them a cost-effective and sustainable option.
Screw piles for lightly loaded structures are most often cheaper than a concrete sonotube (CIP) or belled (big foot) piles.
Screw piles are not always cheaper, because some concrete companies are willing to price themselves out of business (you’ll find some in the screw pile industry as well). Also, not all concrete piles are created equal; a 6 or 8 foot deep concrete pile will support your deck but it will not resist frost heave.
Concrete Piles
Concrete piles, on the other hand, have been a traditional choice for foundation support in construction projects for many years. These piles are typically precast or poured in place and rely on the structural integrity of concrete to bear the load of the building above. Concrete piles are known for their durability and strength, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications and projects with high load requirements.
While concrete piles offer excellent load-bearing capacity, they come with certain drawbacks. The installation process for concrete piles is labor-intensive and time-consuming, often requiring heavy machinery and specialized equipment. Additionally, concrete piles may not be suitable for all soil conditions, particularly in areas with high groundwater levels or unstable terrain.
Concrete piles often heave when lightly loaded and especially when outside a heated space.
Concrete piles under your home have a very high chance of performing as designed. However, a quick stroll through any of Winnipeg’s new developments and you can’t help but notice cracking on the front steps from heaving.
You will also find frost effected piles under unheated structures like decks and sunrooms. The reason is simple, concrete is porous and frost forces are strong. Frost heaved piles are generally very expensive to remedy and most people will just suffer along with a deck or porch they aren’t happy with.
A screw pile for a lightly loaded structure (deck, sunroom, solar farm, etc.) in contrast is small enough to be considered a non-displacement pile which translates into English as a pile with a shaft small enough that the frost forces are negligible compared to the resistance created at the helical blade.
Key Differences Between Screw Piles and Concrete Piles
There is an industry myth that screw piles are always cheaper than concrete piles. The truth is that screw piles can be used for a wide range of projects and depending on the application may not be cheaper.
However, here is a bold claim – Screw piles are cheaper for lightly loaded structures.
It’s a bold claim and I wrestled with myself whether or not it was true. I determined that when you zoom out and look at the big picture, it’s true for Manitobans every time. Here is why:
- Installation: Screw piles can be installed quickly and efficiently using portable equipment, minimizing disruption to the construction site. In contrast, concrete piles require extensive excavation and curing time, leading to longer construction schedules and increased costs.
- Versatility: Screw piles are highly versatile and can be easily adapted to different soil conditions and project requirements. Concrete piles, while durable, may not be suitable for all soil types and may require additional reinforcement in certain situations.
- Environmental Impact: Screw piles have a smaller environmental footprint compared to concrete piles due to their minimal excavation requirements and potential for reuse. Concrete production is energy-intensive and contributes to carbon emissions, making screw piles a more sustainable choice in many cases.
- Cost: While the initial cost of screw piles may be higher than concrete piles, their quicker installation process and potential for reuse can result in overall cost savings, particularly in large-scale projects or projects with tight deadlines.
Screw pile installation won’t ruin the landscaping or leave an awful mess.
A zero displacement pile (like a screw pile) also means that there is very limited impact on a yard. The equipment required to install screw piles for light structures is also relatively light compared to a drilling rig, concrete truck and skidsteer.
The collateral damage from traditional concrete piling has a cost. For some folks, the highest cost is having their yard down for repairs and not available for enjoyment. Others have invested money, expertise and their own time grooming a manicuring their yard. In such cases the damage can range from a few dollars to thousands of dollars.
When you consider the big picture, a screw pile of a lightly loaded structure is a no brainer. Just remember, in the same way that not all concrete piles or companies are equal, not all screw piles or screw pile companies are equal; do your research and you will ensure worry free screw pile foundation for a great value.
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Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific requirements of your project, including soil conditions, load-bearing capacity, construction timeline, and budget constraints.
For projects where speed, versatility, and sustainability are paramount, screw piles offer a compelling solution. Their ease of installation, minimal environmental impact, and potential for cost savings make them an attractive option for a wide range of applications.
However, for projects with heavy load requirements or specific soil conditions, concrete piles may still be the preferred choice due to their durability and strength.
It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully and consult with a qualified engineer or contractor to determine the most suitable foundation solution for your project. Whether you choose screw piles or concrete piles, investing in a solid foundation is crucial for the long-term success and stability of your construction project.