The weight of a structure significantly impacts the choice and cost of a piering system because different systems are engineered for specific load capacities. Generally, the heavier the structure, the more likely push piers will be required, despite their higher upfront investment.

Key differences include:

• Push Piers: These are designed for heavy loads, such as multi-story commercial structures. They derive strength by being driven down to competent soil or bedrock, typically reaching a capacity of 8,000 to 12,000 pounds per pier.
• Helical Piers: These are better suited for lighter to moderate loads, such as single-story commercial additions or residential projects. They use steel plates to distribute weight into the soil, typically achieving 2,000 to 8,000 pounds per plate pair.

Because push piers are used for heavier structures, they often require more specialized heavy hydraulic equipment and deeper installation to reach bedrock, which increases the overall project cost. In contrast, helical piers can often be a more affordable choice for lighter loads because they may not need to reach bedrock and can be installed using smaller, portable equipment.