Based on the provided content, helical pier installation can be more expensive than push piers due to several specific factors regarding materials, manufacturing, and specialized requirements:

• Manufacturing Complexity: Helical piers have a higher per-unit cost because the fabrication process is more complex. They require steel shafts with precisely welded helices and specialized corrosion-resistant galvanization, whereas push piers use more straightforward steel tubing.
• Material Costs: The typical cost range for helical piers is $180 – $300 per linear foot, which is higher than the $150 – $250 range for push piers. Additionally, custom manufacturing (such as larger shaft diameters or special coatings for specific soil conditions) can add 15-25% to these material costs.
• Advanced Equipment Needs: While helical piers use portable motors, Colorado’s specific geological conditions—such as expansive clay and rocky terrain—may necessitate the use of advanced torque motors, which can influence the overall investment.

It is important to note that while the materials are more expensive, helical piers can sometimes be more cost-effective overall for lighter loads because they often do not need to reach the same depths as push piers to achieve stability.