Screw Piles: Four Planning Precautions for Foundation Construction

Industrial & Manufacturing Blog

Screw piles are favoured in foundation construction because of the convenience of installation in comparison with other materials. For instance, the piling eliminates the need for spoil removal. Also, dewatering is not required, and vibration during placement is minimal. Besides, the performance of screw piling is exceptional for most applications. However, the quality of installation will influence the benefits of this foundation type. Consider these guidelines when planning for screw pile usage.

Evaluate the Soil Quality

Screw piles are compatible with most ground conditions. However, installation of the foundation elements without understanding the quality of the soil is detrimental. If you are unaware of the conditions, your choice of specific screw piles could be wrong. For instance, soft and unstable soils require longer piles to ensure insertion in firmer underlying ground. Also, the chemical composition of the soil could influence pile performance. Therefore, plan for a thorough assessment of your site before proceeding.

Consider the Regulations

Screw pile foundations are subject to building standards like other structural elements. The goal of the existing regulations is to promote safety and prevent the accelerated failure of new buildings. Therefore, when planning for pile installation, check the applicable regulations in your area. The most critical consideration is the acquisition of screw piles that meet the appropriate standards. Choose a specialist provider with experience in piling manufacturing. Ensure the chosen products are certified to avoid complications during building inspections and approval.

Inspect for Pipes and Conduits

If you are establishing a new structure on your developed property or non-virgin land, the probability of finding buried utility components is high. For example, pipes and other conduits might be concealed in the ground. If you install the piles blindly, the damage to critical systems will be high. Therefore, when planning for your project, establish a strategy for mapping the underground infrastructure. For example, you can reach out to local utility companies. Also, discuss the use of radar equipment for detecting buried elements with your screw pile contractor as an additional precaution.

Determine the Load

Screw piles are tough and exceptional in load-bearing applications. However, like all components, these units have limitations in strength and capacity. Therefore, consider the load-bearing requirements for your structure before purchasing piles and allowing for installation. When discussing the construction of your new building, provide complete details affecting the weight exerted on the foundation to your screw piling contractor. The critical information includes the type of materials to be used in construction and expected load once the newly established structure is completed. 

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