A helical pier foundation is a suitable choice for sandy soil.
Helical Pier Foundations for Sandy Soil
Sandy soil presents unique challenges for foundations due to its tendency to shift and erode over time. Traditional foundation methods may not provide the long-term stability needed in such environments. Helical piers, also known as helical anchors, screw piles, or screw anchors, offer a reliable solution for building on sandy soil.
What are Helical Piers?
Helical piers are steel shafts with one or more helix-shaped bearing plates welded to them. These piers are screwed into the ground, much like a screw into wood, until they reach a stable, load-bearing soil layer.
Why Helical Piers are Suitable for Sandy Soil:
- Stability: Helical piers bypass the unstable sandy topsoil and anchor into deeper, more compact soil layers, providing a stable base for the structure.
- Resistance to Erosion: Unlike shallow foundations that can be undermined by erosion in sandy areas, helical piers are installed deep below the potential erosion zone.
- Minimal Soil Disturbance: Installation of helical piers causes minimal disturbance to the surrounding soil, which is especially important in environmentally sensitive areas or when working close to existing structures.
- Versatility: Helical piers can be used for various foundation types, including new construction, foundation repair, and shoring.
- Speed of Installation: Compared to traditional foundation methods, helical piers can be installed relatively quickly, saving time and labor costs.
- Suitable for Compacted Sand and Gravel: Compacted sand and gravel, when properly prepared, can provide good stability. Helical piers are still a viable option to ensure long-term performance, especially if there are concerns about future soil erosion.
Other Considerations:
While helical piers are a strong option, proper soil testing is crucial to determine the load-bearing capacity of the soil at different depths. This information is essential for selecting the appropriate size and depth of the helical piers. Consulting with a qualified geotechnical engineer and foundation contractor is highly recommended to ensure a safe and effective foundation design.
