3 Ways Helical Piles Save Costs in Piling Foundation
Posted on: 25 September 2019
Advancements in technology in the construction industry -- especially in foundation construction -- have made it possible for contractors to build structures in the unlikeliest of spaces. Piling is one such technology since it allows builders to construct houses on sloping ground, lose soil, and even in water bodies. However, such specialised foundation can be cost-intensive, and therefore contractors have to choose pile types that are cost-effective. Helical piles are arguably the most cost-effective piling systems for any foundation work, and this article highlights the reasons for this.
Low Installation Costs -- One of the main issues contractors have to deal with when installing conventional piles is the size and lengths of the piles. Notably, most piles are long and heavy; hence, special equipment and enough clearance room are required to hammer down the piles into the ground. Renting such equipment can also be quite costly. Helical piles, on the other hand, are shorter than conventional piles. Therefore, the helical type can be used in tighter and hard-to-reach spaces. Additionally, contractors only need small equipment, such as mini excavators, when installing helical piles. Not only do you lower rental rates by using helical piles, but you also decrease fuel costs.
Efficient Installation -- Due to the sheer size of standard pile types, it requires the effort of several labourers to deal with a single pile. Therefore, the time consumed to install several conventional piles prolongs the overall time of a project. However, helical piles are relatively short and light and can, therefore, be handled by one or two labourers. For instance, an equipment operator and a labourer can install at least 30 helical piles per day. Notably, it takes just a few seconds to drive in one foot of helical pile into the ground. Therefore, you can begin to understand how much you save on labour costs by using helical piles.
Installed in any Weather -- Contractors know very well the cost implications of putting off a project due to adverse weather conditions. For example, if it rains heavily and the ground gets socked, it can be challenging to drive into the ground conventional piles. The reason for this is that standard pile types don't prevent water from getting into the drilled shafts in the ground. However, the light-weight characteristic of helical piles makes them the best choice for adverse weather conditions. Since you only require smaller crews and small, maneuverable machines, installing helical piles shouldn't be a problem even in swampy ground. The ease of installation eliminates the need to put off piling construction in adverse weather conditions.
Contact piling contractors near you today in order to learn more.
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