When determining the best method for fixing uneven concrete, the choice between polyurethane foam and steel piers depends largely on the weight of the structure and the condition of the soil.
For settled concrete slabs such as driveways, patios, or interior floors that have shifted 1 to 3 inches, we often recommend polyurethane foam injection (slab jacking). This method is less invasive, requires only a few hours for installation, and uses lightweight foam to lift the concrete without adding significant mass. It is particularly effective for slabs on grade where minimal disruption is a priority.
However, for more significant settlement or when the structural integrity of foundation walls is at stake, foundation underpinning with steel piers is the superior choice. This is especially true in the Centennial area due to our unique expansive clay soils. Unlike foam, which stays in the surface soil, helical piers or steel push piers are driven deep into the ground to reach stable load-bearing strata or bedrock.
Key differences to consider include:
- Load Bearing Capacity: The load bearing capacity of helical piers is significantly higher, often ranging from 30,000 to 70,000 pounds per pier, making them essential for heavy structural loads.
- Precision: Steel piers allow for extremely precise lifting (within ±1/16 inch), compared to the ±1/8 inch precision typical of foam.
- Durability: Steel piers are corrosion-resistant and designed for the life of the structure, whereas foam can be susceptible to moisture degradation over time.
Because every property has unique structural demands, a professional site evaluation is essential. Please consult a licensed contractor for definitive advice and verify licensure with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Project outcomes and timelines may vary based on site conditions, permitting, and material availability.
Let us help you get your project started by providing a custom assessment for your home. Call Us 24/7 or Request a Quote to schedule your site inspection.
Related FAQs
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Is a Physical Load Test Necessary to Confirm the Bearing Capacity of Installed Helical Piers?
Read More »: Is a Physical Load Test Necessary to Confirm the Bearing Capacity of Installed Helical Piers?Whether a physical load test is necessary depends on local building codes, soil conditions, and the specific requirements of the project. While torque monitoring is the primary method used to estimate capacity during installation, physical load testing serves several critical…
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How does Torque Monitoring During Installation Verify Helical Pier Load Capacity?
Read More »: How does Torque Monitoring During Installation Verify Helical Pier Load Capacity?Torque monitoring acts as a real-time field verification method to confirm the helical pier load capacity during installation. This process relies on a fundamental engineering relationship where the energy required to drive a pier into the soil correlates directly to…
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Can Helical Piers Support the Same Load as Traditional Concrete Foundations?
Read More »: Can Helical Piers Support the Same Load as Traditional Concrete Foundations?Yes, helical piers can support structural loads comparable to traditional concrete foundations, though their specific capacities differ based on the application. For typical residential projects, helical pier capacities generally range from 10 to 150 kips (or 50–200 kN) per pier.…
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What Factors, such as Soil Type and Pier Design, Influence Helical Pier Load Capacity?
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How is the Load Capacity of a Helical Pier Determined for a Residential Project?
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