Understanding Helical Piles

Helical piles, also known as screw piles, are a type of deep foundation system that is becoming increasingly popular in residential construction. At CABN, we love helical piles for their rapid, non-invasive installation as well as the ability to use them in various settings and property substrates. This allows us to create a strong, robust foundation in some of the most rural and remote locations throughout the year.

Originally used to secure lighthouses along coastlines, the helical piles we use are made up of a steel shaft with helical plates that are screwed into the ground, providing a stable and secure foundation for residential buildings. We know that helical piles may be new to some of our clients, so we've assembled some of the top benefits: 

Speed of Installation

One of the main advantages of using helical piles for residential construction is the speed of installation. Unlike traditional foundation systems, which require significant excavation and installation time, helical piles can be quickly and easily installed with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area. This can significantly reduce the construction time of a residential project. At our CABN showhome, helical pile installation was done in roughly a day, considerably expediting our site preparations.

Cost-Effective

Another significant benefit of using helical piles for residential construction is their cost-effectiveness. Because they require less excavation and installation time, helical piles can be a more affordable option than traditional foundation systems. Additionally, the ease of installation can lead to lower labor costs. CABN clients can access our preferred vendor network across North America for seamless site evaluation and installation.

Durability

Helical piles are made from high-quality steel, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting. They are designed to resist corrosion and are capable of withstanding a wide range of environmental conditions, including high winds and seismic activity.

Minimal Environmental Impact

Using helical piles for residential construction can also have a minimal environmental impact. Because they require less excavation and can be quickly installed, there is minimal disturbance to the surrounding area. Additionally, the steel used in helical piles is often made from recycled materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice. In traditional construction, the concrete used in the foundation is one of the largest greenhouse gas contributors of the whole build. Helical piles eliminate this additional environmental impact.

Versatility

Helical piles are also highly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of residential construction projects. Not just for homes, helical piles can be a foundation for decks, docks, and other structures on land, enabling landowners to build on unstable soils or areas with limited access.

Using helical piles for your CABN offers a wide range of benefits, including speed of installation, cost-effectiveness, versatility, durability, and minimal environmental impact. While CABN can be built on more traditional concrete foundations, we always offer helical piles as a first option.