A concrete pier is essentially a solid concrete pillar specifically designed to provide robust support for building foundations.
Concrete piers are solid concrete pillars that are strong enough to support the foundation and the building that rests on top of it. They function as vertical structural elements transferring the weight of the structure down to stable soil or bedrock layers below the ground surface.
Key Characteristics of Concrete Piers
- Solid Construction: Unlike some other types of piers, they are typically poured as a solid mass of concrete.
- Pillar Shape: They form column-like structures beneath the foundation.
- Load-Bearing: Their primary role is to bear the weight from the structure above and distribute it to competent soil.
Purpose and Application
The main purpose of installing concrete piers is to create a stable base for a foundation, especially in areas with unstable or weak upper soil layers. They are used to bypass problematic soil near the surface and rely on deeper, more stable strata for support. This is crucial for preventing foundation settlement and ensuring the long-term structural integrity of a building.
Comparison with Other Pier Types
While highly effective, concrete piers are not the most common choice for foundation support in many scenarios. This is primarily because of the additional work needed to use them compared to other methods. Usually, push or helical piers are preferred due to their generally faster and less disruptive installation processes.
Why They Require Additional Work
Installing concrete piers typically involves significant excavation to create the void for the concrete pour. This is often more labor-intensive and disruptive than driving or screwing in prefabricated steel piers like push or helical types. Concrete also requires curing time before it can bear significant load, adding to the project duration.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Understanding the trade-offs is important when considering foundation solutions:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Strength | More extensive excavation needed |
| High Durability | Concrete curing time required |
| Suitable for heavy loads | Potentially higher labor costs |
| Provides stable deep support | Installation can be more disruptive to the site |
In summary, a concrete pier is a fundamental type of deep foundation element, relying on the inherent strength and durability of solid concrete to provide essential structural support.
