What Are Foundation Screws? Benefits and Applications in Modern Construction

In this article we will be exploring what foundation screws are and why they are the best foundation solution today for a wide range of applications, commercial and residential.

Topics covered in this article:

1. What are Foundation Screws
2. How Foundation Screws Work
3. The Most Stable Foundation
4. Benefits of Foundation Screws
5. Types of Foundation Screws and Their Soil Compatibility
6. Why GoliathTech Helical Piles Are the Best Foundation Solution
7. Best Practices for Installation

What Are Foundation Screws

Foundation screws, also known as helical piles, helical piers, screw piles, or ground anchors, are a modern, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete foundations. Made from galvanized or ungalvanized steel, these screws are used in a wide range of residential and commercial construction projects. They are highly valued for their ease of installation, speed, and durability compared to conventional concrete foundations.

Unlike basic ground anchors, helical piles feature a helical thread, which provides superior long-term stability for foundations. Foundation screws offer exceptional stability, durability, and an installation process that eliminates the need for traditional excavation and concrete pouring.

How Foundation Screws Work

Foundation screws are designed to be driven deep into the ground, where their helical design allows them to anchor securely, providing a stable base for a variety of structures. The screws are ideal for a range of projects, including decks, carports, home foundations, workshops, and even larger constructions.

By eliminating the need for extensive excavation and concrete curing times, foundation screws offer a quick and efficient solution for many small and large projects. Installation is fast, with a compact equipment, great in restricted spaces, used to ensure the screws are driven to the appropriate depth and positioned precisely for maximum stability.

The Most Stable Foundation

Foundation screws provide the most stable foundation for any outdoor structure. Whether you're building a cottage, a home addition, deck, or even a swimming pool, this solution ensures that your structure is firmly anchored, regardless of soil type or terrain. The combination of precision installation and high-quality materials makes foundation screws the superior choice when compared to traditional methods.

Concrete foundations may still be used in specific situations, but in many cases, foundation screws are the preferred option. For some projects, a combination of concrete and screws may be necessary to achieve the required stability and support like retaining walls or underpinning. Regardless of the solution, foundation screws provide an unparalleled level of reliability and strength.

Benefits of Foundation Screws

Foundation screws offer numerous benefits, making them the best choice for many construction projects:

• No Digging or Concrete Required In Most Cases: Traditional foundations involve digging and pouring concrete, which can be time-consuming and disruptive. Foundation screws bypass this process, allowing for faster and more efficient installation.
• Cost-Effective: With less labor, materials, and no waiting for concrete to cure, foundation screws reduce overall project costs.
• Long-Lasting Durability: For wet or damp soil conditions, our experts may recommend corrosion-resistant galvanized steel helical foundation screws, designed to withstand the elements and provide long-term structural support. For smaller projects in, our ungalvanized helical piles offer a more economical solution while still ensuring lasting durability. Both options are engineered to provide a lifetime of stability, protecting your investment for years to come.
• Versatility: Suitable for a variety of soil types, foundation screws can be used in different terrains, from sandy soils to rocky landscapes.

Types of Foundation Screws and Their Soil Compatibility

Selecting the right foundation screw depends on the soil conditions of your site. Your GoliathTech certified helical pile installer will suggest the right size and length of foundation screw needed for your project.

1. Screws for Firm Soils (Clay, Gravel, and Compact Earth)

For firm soils such as clay and gravel, foundation screws with smaller helical plates are used to penetrate the dense soil effectively. These screws provide excellent stability and are ideal for structures with heavier loads.

• Ideal for: Decks, patios, carports, and smaller buildings on stable terrain.

2. Screws for Soft or Sandy Soils

In softer soils, such as sand or loose topsoil, foundation screws with larger helical plates offer greater resistance and prevent displacement. This ensures that the screws remain securely anchored in the soil, even in less compact ground conditions.

• Ideal for: Projects on beaches, marshlands, or areas with loose topsoil.

3. Screws for Rocky or Mixed Terrain

Helical Piles work very well in rocky or mixed terrain conditions, as they are not only able to penetrate the hard soil to provide a permanent foundation for the project, but also provide secure anchoring in high wind and flood prone areas. Generally, in these more challenging conditions, we use a smaller helix to penetrate the harder/rockier soil to reach the required depth and torque.

• Ideal for: Mountain cabins, outdoor structures on rocky ground, or remote installations.

4. Screws for Wet or Submerged Soils

For projects in wet or submerged environments, GoliathTech galvanized foundation screws are designed to provide strong resistance to water and maintain stability even in saturated ground. These screws prevent the structure from shifting or sinking due to moisture or flooding.

• Ideal for: Docks, lakeside buildings, and flood-prone areas.

Why GoliathTech Helical Piles Are the Best Foundation Solution

GoliathTech helical piles are the superior choice for a variety of construction projects due to their ability to provide fast, stable, and long-lasting support. Here are key reasons why they are the best solution:

• Speed of Installation: Helical piles are installed quickly, reducing labor time and eliminating the waiting periods associated with concrete foundations. They can be driven into the ground in a matter of minutes, making them the perfect choice for time-sensitive projects.
• Minimal Site Impact: With no digging or heavy equipment required, helical piles have minimal impact on the construction site, preserving the surrounding area while ensuring a stable foundation.
• Cost Efficiency: The simplified installation process and lack of concrete materials make helical piles a more affordable solution. Projects can be completed more quickly, saving both time and money.
• Long-Term Stability: Once installed, helical piles offer unmatched stability, ensuring that your structure remains firmly in place for decades.
• Award-Winning and Patented Design: GoliathTech’s helical piles are renowned worldwide for their reliability and durability, making them the most trusted foundation solution across various industries.
• Ease of Approval: GoliathTech helical piles receive easy approval from engineers and inspectors due to their proven track record, patented design, and compliance with industry standards.

Best Practices for Installation

To ensure your project benefits fully from foundation screws, it's important to follow these best practices. Call upon your local GoliathTech helical foundation screw expert for a professional installation :

• Proper Site Marking: Mark the area where the foundation screws will be installed to ensure that the measurements are accurate and align with the project specifications.
• Load Consideration: Assess the weight of the structure and the items it will hold to select the appropriate type of foundation screws.
• Flooring and Beam Anchoring: The flooring should be anchored properly into the ground, and wooden beams must be supported no more than 8 feet apart in all directions.

Conclusion: The Best Foundation Solution for Any Project

Foundation screws, or helical piles, provide the most stable foundation for any construction project, whether residential or commercial. They offer unmatched durability, fast installation, and versatility, making them far superior to traditional concrete foundations. 

By eliminating the need for digging and concrete pouring, foundation screws save time, money, and effort while delivering long-lasting results. 

Whether you’re building a deck, carport, or any other outdoor structure, foundation screws are the best choice for a strong, reliable foundation that will stand the test of time.

Contact your GoliathTech local helical pile installer today!