Helical Screw Piling: What Is It and How Does It Work?
When it comes to building, it all starts from the ground up. Screw piling is a process that is fundamental for creating stable foundations for many construction projects.
In this blog post, we will delve into helical screw piling, covering what this method is, how it works and the key benefits of screw pile installation.
What Are Helical Screw Piles?
Screw piles, also known as helical piles or helical screw piles, are strong galvanised steel shafts that are inserted into the ground in a rotating motion, sort of like a corkscrew that is driven into the ground. Once in place, the piles are filled with concrete or grout and attached to the structure. This provides structural support to foundations that may have challenging soil conditions or sloping land.
A screw pile foundation is made up of three main parts:
- The Shaft: The long, cylindrical shaft forms the main body of the screw that is inserted into the ground.
- The Screw Thread: Also known as the helical plane, the screw thread is the spiral component that keeps the screw pile firmly anchored in the ground.
- The Bracket: The top part of the screw pile that connects your building to the foundations.
How Does Screw Piling Enhance Building Stability?
Ground piles are inserted deep into the ground, far below the soft soil layers, into the firm soil, creating a firm anchoring point. When the screw pile is installed here, the weight of the building is distributed more evenly, enhancing stability and preventing sinking or moving over time.
Once the foundation has been screw piled, your building sits securely on top of the pile using the specialist brackets, creating a stable foundation that is protected from ground moisture and movement.
The Benefits of Helical Screw Piles
Screw piling has been used for nearly two hundred years as it is a highly effective and convenient option for many construction projects. Let’s take a look at their significant advantages.
Quick Installation
Helical screw pile installation is a time-efficient process that usually takes a matter of hours rather than days. Unlike traditional concrete foundations, screw foundations eliminate the need for trench excavation and concrete curing time, allowing construction to begin immediately after pile installation.
Cost-Effective
Screw piles are highly cost-effective in comparison with traditional foundation projects. It eliminates the need for skip hire and waste removal services, minimises groundwork and excavation, and requires relatively little machinery and equipment to perform, leading to significant cost savings.
Environmentally Friendly
Screw foundations can be removed and reused, enables normal water draining, has minimal impact on wildlife and generates minimal waste, making it a much more environmentally friendly alternative to concrete foundations.
Below Ground
With over 25 years of experience, at Below Ground Ltd, we provide screw piling and underpinning services across the South of England. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements.
