Deep foundation piling is the process of installing piles – long supports that help reinforce and stabilise the foundations of a structure – as part of a construction or underpinning project. There are many different types of piling available in the industry today, and piles can be created from a large range of materials! But did you know that before you get into the specifics of size, shape, and material of pile, there are two different methods to consider?
The first type of piling is more well know and better understood by the general public. This is end bearing piling, where the pile simply acts as a leg for the building, transferring its weight from the soft topsoil to a layer of rock or hard, dense earth far below. This method is a simple transfer of the load of the building to a sturdy surface.
The other method, known as friction piling, is a little more complex! Friction piling works by dispersing the load of the building to the surrounding earth via friction, rather than transferring it directly to a stable surface below. Like a nail being driven into wood, friction piles are wedged into the earth. This allows the entire surface area of the pile to help transfer the load to the surrounding soil and distribute it equally, as opposed with end bearing piles which rely on the weight being transferred from end to end.
Friction piles, sometimes known as floating piles, are suitable for sites and piling projects where no layer of dense, rocky earth exists or it is too deep to access. Likewise, when local soil conditions or surroundings make end bearing piling difficult, friction piling can be a more viable option! Stickier or more adhesive earth is ideal for friction piling as these soils will grip the pile strongly upon installation.
There are countless different options when it comes to the ideal piling services for your construction project! Don’t get bogged down weighing up the pros and cons of each individual shape, material, and method. Cut through the noise today and contact a member of our expert team, who can advise on the perfect piling approach for you!
