What is a Helical Pier

There are proven techniques for stabilizing houses that have settlement damage. The solution is the installation of Chance® Helical Piers and Anchors by EBS Engineeering and Construction. This system is backed by more than 80 years of structural engineering experience.

Helical Piers have a solid square steel shaft with several helical plates that are installed by twisting it into the soil like a giant screw. By applying torque to the shaft, the helices penetrate the soil by minimally displacing the soil on either side of the helices. The torque that it takes to install the screw anchor is measured and correlates directly back to the capacity of the pier. Once the pier is installed adjustable brackets are then attached to the base of the foundation walls, connecting the piers to the foundation. The weight of your home is then shifted to the piers. In the process, the foundation, walls and floors are repositioned and retained from further movement.

This innovative system contrasts with other methods which use the structure’s weight to force pipes and concrete cylinders down into the ground. Such costly and time consuming methods require extensive excavation which can disturb site features such as walkways and landscapes. Whether due to damage, moisture, or decay, foundation stabilization is possible with helical piers and anchors. They can be used for light to heavy load structures in almost any type of soil. Excavation is minimal so they can be inserted even in those hard to access places.

Click Here to view How Helical Piers Work.