What is the Difference Between Helical and Push Piers?

When looking into the various foundation repair systems that Innovative Basement Authority can offer, it might seem as though these systems are very similar to each other. You might then wonder why there needs to be two distinct types in the first place as well as what the possible pros and cons of each pier system are. In truth, the main difference between helical piers and push piers lies in how they are installed underneath your foundation. There is no functional difference between the two whatsoever.

Helical piers will have spiral-like attachments on the ends of each pier. This then makes them easier for our experts to hydraulically drill into the tougher layers of soil underneath your home. Push piers, on the other hand, are pushed into these deeper layers of soil manually. Foundation repair experts tend to opt for push piers more often when the soils underneath your foundation are already quite loose, such as the silty loam soils of Sioux Falls. Of course, an expert may still choose to install helical piers underneath your home if these deeper layers prove to be too tough for push piers alone.

Both pier systems will work to stabilize and potentially lift your foundation back to its original height over time. This is accomplished through each galvanized steel pier essentially transferring the strength of the more compact layers of soil under your home to the foundation itself. These layers run so deep that they will not be negatively impacted by any moisture damage. You do not have to worry about this soil washing out or shrinking at all. Either of these strong pier systems can keep your foundation reinforced for years to come.