What Are the Different Types of Piles That Can Be Used When Installing a Foundation?

Posted on: 28 July 2021

There are various methods of foundation installation that are commonly used, but one of the most common techniques involves piling. Basically, this technique is done by installing long "piles" deep into the ground. When many piles are installed, it helps with creating a strong and stable foundation. Piles are made from different materials, and contractors have to choose which type of piles to use when installing a foundation, based on the specifics of the building project. These are some of the most common types of piles that are commonly used for foundation installation jobs.

Concrete Piles

Concrete piles are some of the most common piles that are used for foundation installations. These piles might be made on or off-site, such as by using large cardboard tubes as a mould. Concrete piles are a good choice because they are some of the most affordable piles that you can purchase, but because concrete is so strong and durable, they are typically very effective.

Timber Piles

Piles that are made from timber are sometimes used during foundation installations. There is a benefit of using these instead of concrete piles, since you don't have to worry about the drying time for them to be made. However, timber is often more expensive than concrete. Although large piles can be quite durable, they often aren't as strong as concrete piles. There is also the concern of them rotting when they are dug deep into the ground. Timber piles need to be properly treated if they will be used for this purpose, and they're typically only suited for residential projects and other smaller projects.

Steel Pipe

As you probably already know, steel is one of the strongest and most durable materials out there. Because of this, it only makes sense that piles that are made out of steel are popular, especially in industrial construction projects and other major projects. Steel pipe can work well for piling and can handle more weight than some other types of piles, but it can be more expensive than concrete piles.

If you need to have a foundation installed, you might have already decided that piling is the technique that you want your builders to use. However, you might not have yet decided which type of piles you want to have installed for your foundation. If you work with a piling contractor, you can talk to them about your building project and get help with major decisions. Then, you should be able to have a nice, strong foundation created for your building project.

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