How Many Helical Piers Do I Need
To determine how many helical piers you need for foundation repair, follow these steps:
1.
Identify the perimeter walls that need repair.
2.
Calculate the total linear feet affected by settlement.
3.
Divide the total linear feet by 7 (rounding up if necessary) to determine the number of support piers needed.
4.
Add 1 to the rounded number to arrive at the total number of piers needed.
On average, a typical foundation repair job requires between 15 to 25 helical piers.
The cost of repair is determined by the number of supports needed, along with other factors such as the chosen method of repair and access limitations.
It is best to consult a professional to assess the extent of the settlement and associated repair costs.
Did You Know?
1. In ancient Roman architecture, a similar concept to helical piers was used called “Vitruvian piles.” These were wooden poles with a helical shape that were hammered into the ground to provide stability for structures.
2. Helical piers were first patented in the United States in 1833 by Irish engineer Alexander Mitchell. Mitchell’s invention revolutionized the construction industry by allowing for more efficient foundation stabilization.
3. The concept of helical piers was indirectly inspired by the ancient Greek mathematician, Archimedes. He discovered the principle of the screw, which involves a spiraling motion. This principle was later applied to the design of helical piers.
4. Helical piers can also be used in underwater construction. They have been successfully utilized in various marine projects, such as securing oil platforms or building underwater structures.
5. Helical piers are often used for foundation repair in residential homes, but they have also been employed in the conservation of historical landmarks. By stabilizing the foundations of these structures, helical piers help preserve their architectural integrity for future generations.
Foundation Repair Basics For Slab-On-Grade Foundations
Slab-on-grade foundations without basements or crawlspaces are commonly found in residential and commercial buildings. These types of foundations are typically built on a concrete slab that rests directly on the ground. Over time, settlement and other factors can cause damage to the foundation, resulting in the need for repair.
When it comes to foundation repair, it is important to understand the basics. The first step is to identify the perimeter walls that are experiencing issues and require repair. These walls are usually the most affected by settlement and instability. Once the perimeter walls are identified, the next step is to calculate the total linear feet that are affected by settlement. This can be done by measuring the length of each wall that needs repair and adding them together.
Calculating The Number Of Helical Piers Needed
Helical piers are a popular choice for foundation repair, as they provide stability and support to the affected areas. To determine the number of helical piers needed for the repair, one can divide the total linear feet by 7, rounding up if necessary. This calculation provides an estimate of the number of support piers needed.
For example, if the total linear feet affected by settlement is 84, dividing it by 7 equals 12, which is already a whole number. Adding 1 to this rounded number, the total number of supports needed would be 13. Similarly, if the total linear feet is 98, dividing it by 7 equals 14, which is already a round number. Adding 1 to this, the total number of supports needed would be 15.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Repair
The number of helical piers needed for foundation repair has a significant impact on both the stability of the structure and the overall cost of the repair. The pricing for helical piers is usually calculated per pier, so the more piers required, the higher the cost of repair.
In addition to the number of piers, several other factors can influence the cost of foundation repair. These factors include the chosen repair method, access limitations to the affected area, and any necessary finishing services. It is important to consider all of these factors when estimating the total cost of the repair project.
Examples Of Calculating The Number Of Piers Needed
To better understand how to calculate the number of piers needed for foundation repair, consider the following examples:
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Example 1: In a corner problem, the total linear feet affected by settlement is 49 plus 35, resulting in 84. Dividing 84 by 7 gives us 12, a whole number. Adding 1 to this, the total number of supports needed would be 13.
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Example 2: In a section or wing problem, the total linear feet affected by settlement is 28 plus 42 plus 28, resulting in 98. Dividing 98 by 7 gives us 14, a round number. Adding 1 to this, the total number of supports needed would be 15.
Average Cost And Professional Assessment
On average, a typical foundation repair job requires between 15 to 25 supports. However, it is crucial to note that every repair project is unique, and the exact number of piers needed can vary based on the specific circumstances of the foundation damage.
The cost of foundation repair is directly related to the number of supports needed, along with other factors such as the chosen method of repair, access limitations to the affected area, and any finishing services required. On average, the cost for 15 to 25 supports can range between $7,500 and $20,000.
Determining the extent of settlement and associated repair costs is a job best left to professionals. It is important to consult a qualified foundation repair specialist who can assess the damage, evaluate the number of piers needed, and provide an accurate estimate for the repair project.
Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee a specific price for foundation repair. It is always recommended to seek professional advice and assessment for accurate cost estimation and foundation repair solutions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart do helical piers need to be?
The ideal spacing for helical piers is typically between 5 and 10 feet, with a minimum spacing of 3 feet. The industry standard suggests a spacing that is three times the diameter of the piers, measured from center to center. This spacing ensures adequate load distribution and stability for the foundation system. By following this guideline, helical piers can be effectively positioned to support structures and withstand the forces they encounter.
How many piers are required?
The number of piers required for a home can be determined by dividing the total linear feet along the affected walls by 7. This calculation ensures that there is a pier for every 7 linear feet. If the result is a decimal, it should be rounded up to the nearest whole number. This approach guarantees that an adequate number of support piers are installed to effectively stabilize the structure.
How many piers do I need for foundation?
The number of piers required for a foundation depends on various factors such as the size of the building, the type of piers chosen, and the severity of the foundation damage. Generally, homeowners typically require anywhere between seven to ten piers to effectively repair their foundation. These piers provide the necessary support and stability to ensure the structural integrity of the building.
How many helical piles can be installed in a day?
With a skilled team of two or three workers equipped with a skid steer or backhoe, it is possible to install anywhere between 15 to 30 helical piles in a single day, considering factors like depth and site conditions. These projects usually involve smaller loads that have minimal to no lateral loads, allowing the jobs and engineering processes to progress swiftly.