When evaluating total project costs, helical piers can actually be more economical than traditional concrete footers, even though their upfront per-unit price is higher. While a single helical pier costs between $150 and $400 compared to $100 to $250 for a concrete footer, several factors influence the final project expenditure:
- Labor and Time: Helical piers are installed in 1–2 hours and provide immediate load-bearing capacity. Traditional concrete footers require 2–3 days for excavation, pouring, and curing, which can delay overall construction and increase labor costs.
- Excavation and Site Restoration: Helical piers require minimal digging and are ideal for tight-access lots or preserving existing landscaping. Concrete footers often require heavy excavation equipment and more site restoration, adding hidden costs to the budget.
- Durability and Maintenance: Helical piers are resistant to frost heave and the expansive clay soils common in the Denver metro area. Because concrete footers are more prone to cracking and settling over time, they often incur long-term repair costs (such as mudjacking or crack injection) that helical piers avoid.
In a real-world example of a Centennial home, using helical piers saved approximately $200 in total costs because it eliminated the three-day curing delay and the need for extensive soil preparation and landscaping restoration necessitated by concrete footers.
Related FAQs
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What is the Relationship between Installation Torque and Soil Bearing Capacity?
Read More »: What is the Relationship between Installation Torque and Soil Bearing Capacity?The relationship between installation torque and soil bearing capacity is governed by an empirical correlation that allows us to estimate the ultimate load-bearing strength of a pier based on the rotational force required to install it. This is expressed through…
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How is the Soil Bearing Capacity Determined for Helical Pier Installation?
Read More »: How is the Soil Bearing Capacity Determined for Helical Pier Installation?To determine soil bearing capacity for helical pier installation, we use a multi-layered approach that combines theoretical engineering, real-time field measurements, and specialized testing. Our process ensures that structural loads are transferred past weak surface soils—such as the expansive clay…
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Why is a Geotechnical Investigation Necessary to Verify Soil Bearing Capacity?
Read More »: Why is a Geotechnical Investigation Necessary to Verify Soil Bearing Capacity?A geotechnical investigation is essential because it provides the foundational data required to design a safe and reliable helical pier system. Soil properties vary significantly, and understanding the specific conditions at your site—such as soil stratigraphy, groundwater levels, and the…
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What are the Best Stabilization Methods for 100-year-old Foundations?
Read More »: What are the Best Stabilization Methods for 100-year-old Foundations?Stabilizing a 100-year-old foundation requires a specialized approach that balances modern engineering with the preservation of historic materials. We utilize several proven methods to address the unique challenges of aging masonry and expansive soil conditions. Because every historic property is…
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Can Helical Piers be Used for Historic Building Restoration?
Read More »: Can Helical Piers be Used for Historic Building Restoration?Yes, helical pier stabilization is an ideal solution for historic foundation restoration. Unlike traditional excavation methods, helical piers—also known as screw piles—are screwed into stable load-bearing soil deep beneath the active movement zone with minimal vibration and disruption to the…
