Auger Piles vs Helical Piers: How to Choose?

When it comes to construction projects, choosing the right foundation system is critical to ensuring the longevity and stability of the structure. Two of the most commonly used foundation systems are helical piers and auger piles. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two systems and discuss the advantages of installing helical piers over auger piles.

What are Helical Piles / Helical Piers and Auger Piles?

Helical piers are steel shafts with helix-shaped load bearing plates, which are screwed into the ground to create a solid foundation. On the other hand, auger piles are poured in place concrete columns in the ground in a predrilled hole.

How Do Helical (Piles) Piers and Auger Piles Work?

Helical piers create resistance as their plates are screwed into the soil, resulting in a stable foundation. Auger piles, on the other hand, drill into the soil, creating a hole that is then filled with concrete, resulting in a sturdy foundation.

The Differences Between Helical Piers and Auger Piles

Helical piers can be installed more quickly and with less equipment than auger piles, making them ideal for projects with limited space and tight deadlines. Auger piles, on the other hand, may be a better choice for larger projects where soil conditions are ideal. Additionally, auger piles have little to no tension values and require large equipment to install.

Helical piers / piles

• Installed more quickly
• Less equipment needed
• Great for limited spaces
• Ideal for busy contractors with tight deadlines or multiple projects

Auger piles

• Better for larger projects with medium to good soil conditions

Advantages of Helical Piles (Piers) Compared to Auger Piles

Helical piles generally have a higher load capacity in soil in relation to shaft diameter, can be installed in any weather condition, and require less excavation than auger piles. They are also better for environmentally sensitive areas, as they create less soil disruption than auger piles. Moreover, helical piers can be easily removed and reused if needed, which can result in significant cost savings in the long run. When using helical piles over auger piles, there are no spoils to deal with, meaning, no augering is necessary therefore, no excess of soil to dispose of. 

Helical piles

• Generally have a higher load capacity in relation to shaft diameter
• Installed in any weather condition
• Require less excavation
• Better for environmentally sensitive areas
• Less soil disruption
• Easily removed and can be reused
• No spoils to deal with

The Benefits of Installing Helical Piers over Auger Piles

Helical piers are removable, reusable and even recyclable, making them a more sustainable choice. They are often used in residential and commercial construction projects, while auger piles may be more common in industrial or large-scale projects. Additionally, helical piers perform better in soft or unstable soil, or where excavation is limited.

Helical piles

• Removable, reusable and recyclable
• Often used in residential and commercial projects
• Effective even in soft or unstable soil

Auger piles

• Used for industrial or large-scale construction

Helical Piers vs Auger Piles: Which is More Cost-Effective?

While helical piers may have a higher upfront cost for larger scale projects, they require less excavation and can be installed more quickly, which can result in significant cost savings in the long run. Additionally, helical piers may be more cost-effective in the event that they need to be removed and reused.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between helical piles and auger piles, it is important to consider the unique needs of your construction project. However, if you are looking for a foundation system that is versatile, easy/quick to install, and environmentally friendly, helical piers are the clear choice. With their many advantages, it's no wonder that helical piles (piers) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for construction entrepreneurs.

About GoliathTech

Since 2004, GoliathTech has been the most important manufacturer and installer in the helical (screw) pile industry worldwide. Our patented helical pile foundation system surpasses industry standards and has earned us multiple awards and prizes.

Carried out by certified installers, our quick installation process avoids excavation, which protects your landscape and allows you to begin building as soon as the piles are in the ground. Moreover, you can anchor GoliathTech’s helical pile foundations into any soil or space year-round. Installed deep into the ground, beneath the frost line, they solidly support the structure in even the most extreme conditions. Our technology guarantees that a helical (screw) pile foundation won't move or crack over time.

Integrating both strength and know-how, GoliathTech offers the best anchoring solution to support your residential, industrial, commercial, and municipal projects. Trust the experience and expertise of GoliathTech for your foundation projects. Find a certified GoliathTech installer in your region or become a franchisee.