Planning a new deck, gazebo, or addition? You’ve probably spent some time thinking about how it will look.
But before building starts, there’s another question to answer: what will support it?
Helical piles are one foundation option worth understanding. Here’s a simple introduction to how they work and what to consider for your project.
What is a helical pile?
A helical pile is a steel shaft with one or more spiral-shaped plates near the bottom. These plates are called helices.
Specialized equipment turns the pile into the ground, a little like turning a screw into wood. The helix transfers the weight of your structure into the soil. A bracket or plate at the top connects the pile to the structure above.
What can piles support?
Helical piles can support decks, gazebos, sheds, additions, and other structures. The pile size, connections, and layout need to suit the project—there isn’t one pile that fits every job.
Why do homeowners choose them?
For many backyard projects, the appeal is straightforward:
- Less digging: Installation generally avoids the large holes needed for poured concrete footings.
- No concrete curing time: Once installation is complete and any required inspections are cleared, construction can move ahead.
- Compact equipment: This can make installation practical where backyard access is limited.
We still need to check access and ground conditions. Compact equipment helps, but every property is different.
How deep do they go?
The right depth depends on the soil, frost requirements, and the load the pile needs to support. Some locations require deeper installation than others.
Extensions can be added when more depth is needed. That’s why it’s helpful to understand how additional depth will be handled in your quote before installation starts.
How do we know a pile can support the weight?
During installation, we measure torque—the turning force used to install the pile. That measurement helps assess the pile’s capacity using the relationship specified for the pile system.
Depth and torque both matter. The installation needs to meet the requirements for your project.
What should you have ready?
A few details help us give you useful advice:
What you’re building and its approximate size.
Your project address.
A few photos showing the installation area and access.
Any drawings or required loads you already have.
Underground utilities also need to be located before installation. Privately owned lines, such as power to a shed or gas to a barbecue, may need separate private locates.
Have a project in mind? Let’s talk.
You don’t need to know all the technical terms before contacting us. Send us what you have, and we’ll help you understand the pile options, what information is needed, and what installation would involve.
If you need help with engineering, we can assist with that too.
Whether you’re planning a small gazebo or a larger project, we’re happy to help you get started.
Eddie and the GoliathTech West GTA team