Deep foundation piling is the method of installing long vertical supports, known as piles, within the foundation of a structure in order to provide it with a sturdy base and prevent subsidence. But there are countless different types of piles and piling methods! Piles can be driven deep into the ground, screwed directly into the earth, or even cast-in-place from liquid concrete. Piles can also be crafted from a broad range of materials. If you’re curious about what piles may be ideal for your project, check out our brief guide looking at some of the most common materials using in piling and the unique advantages and disadvantages of choosing them!
Concrete
Concrete is a staple material in piling due to its versatility! Unlike steel or timber, concrete can be utilised in its liquid form, meaning it can be used to create both pre-cast and cast in-situ piles. Pre-cast concrete piles are crafted in advance and then installed like any other type of pile, while cast in-situ piles are created by filling a bored or drilled hole with liquid concrete and allowing it to set.
Steel
Steel enjoys higher strength and durability than concrete, which means that steel piles can be used to support heavier structures with fewer piles. However, steel piles can also be more expensive to purchase and install, and can demand a higher carbon footprint during transportation.
Creating piles from metal does allow for specialised piles to be created, such as helical piles. Helical piles, also known as screw piles, are equipped with a screw-like helix at the base which allows them to be installed by directly screwing them into the earth.
Timber
Timber piles tend to be far less expensive than steel or concrete, but are also the most vulnerable to deterioration. Timber is very susceptible to erosion and rot, meaning they must be treated properly before installation in order to increase their longevity.
Composite Materials
The majority of piles installed by the industry today are crafted from a single material, but composite piles are also available on the market. Two different types of composite piles exist: those created from two piles of different materials being combined in the same support, and single piles crafted from composite materials like Fiber-Reinforced Polymers, a combination of plastic and fiberglass.
If you’re unsure exactly what material piles would be ideal for your project, or want advice on choosing between piling and mini piling services, get in touch with our expert team for some bespoke advice today!
