Helical piles, sometimes called screw piles or helical piers, have become a go-to solution for foundation repair and new construction, especially in 2025. If you’ve ever wondered how these steel “screws” actually lift and stabilize a building, here’s a simple, clear explanation that covers every key detail you need to know.

What Are Helical Piles?

Helical piles are long, steel shafts with helix-shaped plates (kind of like giant screws) welded onto them. Their special design lets them be twisted deep into the ground, providing solid support for building foundations. This technology works for houses, offices, and even large commercial structures.

How Do Helical Piles Work?

1. Bypassing Weak Soil

Traditional concrete foundations rest on topsoil, which can shift, compress, or wash away. Helical piles solve this problem by being drilled deep into the earth—past weak surface soil and down to stable, load-bearing layers called “strata.” This way, instead of your building sitting on soft or shifting ground, it’s anchored to firm, reliable soil or rock far below.

2. Installation Process

• Assessment: Engineers first study the foundation and soil to decide how many piles are needed and where to place them.
• Installation: Using powerful hydraulic equipment, they screw the piles into the ground, just like you’d twist a corkscrew into a wine bottle. They keep turning the pile until it reaches strong, stable soil or bedrock.
• Bracket Attachment: After the piles are in place, contractors attach steel brackets to the foundation. These brackets connect the old foundation directly to the new piles.
• Lifting: Using hydraulic jacks, the crew carefully raises the foundation. The pressure is distributed evenly, allowing precise control to bring sunken parts of the building back to level. The piles then carry the weight, keeping the foundation stable.
• Securing: Once everything’s back in place, the system is locked tight for long-term support—protecting the home or building from future movement.

3. How Do They Lift Foundations?

When a building sinks or settles, it’s often because the soil beneath it can’t support the weight. Helical piles, once installed, act like stilts, lifting the structure by transferring the load to much deeper, sturdier soils that don’t move. The screw shape gives them strong holding power and resistance against future shifts or moisture problems.

Why Are Helical Piles Effective?

• Versatility: They can be used in almost any kind of soil—even where concrete foundations would fail.
• Minimal Disruption: Because there’s no need for massive excavation or drying time, homes and businesses can stay open during the repair.
• Load Bearing: Each pile evenly distributes the building’s weight, preventing cracks or stress points.
• Precise Adjustment: Contractors can lift and level the foundation slowly and safely, keeping damage to a minimum.
• Long-Term Stability: Helical piles don’t rot, settle, or corrode under normal conditions and provide permanent strength.

Advantages of Helical Piles in 2025

• Quick Installation: Most projects are done in days, not weeks.
• Clean Site: Less mess and disruption compared to large concrete repairs.
• Cost Effective: Often less expensive over time because of durability and the lower chance of future problems.
• Eco-Friendly: Minimal soil disturbance, with no need for concrete mixing or curing.

When Are Helical Piles Used?

• Repairing cracked or sinking foundations in homes and offices
• Building on poor soils, near rivers, or reclaimed land
• Supporting decks, walkways, or new construction in tricky areas
• Providing support for all kinds of structures, from signs and light poles to multi-story buildings

Conclusion

Helical piles are a modern, reliable, and efficient way to stabilize and lift foundations in 2025. By anchoring your building to solid ground deep beneath the surface, these “giant screws” protect your investment and ensure your home or business stands strong for decades to come. If you’re facing foundation issues or planning new construction, helical piles are a smart, proven choice you can trust.