Top 8 reasons to use Screw Piles for Underpinning
We only provide underpinning with screw piles - and there’s a very good reason for that. In fact there are many great reasons that show screw piles to be a superior solution to foundation problems. To keep things simple, we’ve summarised these into our Top 8 reasons why people should choose screw piles when it comes to repairing building foundations.
A perfect match: Katana + Foundation Solutions
Before we jump into the top 8 reasons, we should note that we don’t just use any old screw pier - there are quite a few types on the market. We exclusively use the Katana bladed screw pile. It has been extensively tested, certified and even Codemarked.
Not surprisingly, the Katana screw pile is being used more and more, not just for foundation repairs, but for new build homes and buildings and numerous other non-residential applications - like on the Great Barrier Reef, Boat Club jetty, retirement buildings, and much more.
The Katana bladed screw pile has proven itself a competent replacement for not only concrete piles but also a lot more effective than traditional screw piles that use a helix.
OK without further ado, here are the 8 Reasons to choose screw piles…
Screw piles are more cost-effective
Steel screw piles allow for a fixed-price foundation remedy. It eliminates hidden surprises on-site. It is a system that reduces or eliminates many fixed and variable costs, as well as removing uncertainties and blow-outs common with other methods.
Screw piles are stronger and more secure
Katana Screw Piles are certified to meet AS4100 and AS2159 and produce consistently solid results, with superior verticality, soil penetration and minimal pre-drilling. They provide a solid outcome. Every time.
Screw piles go in faster and their strength can be quantified
The screw pile method enables fast turnaround and faster delivery, rain, hail or shine. Testing and validation of load bearing capacity on site is done in minutes to ensure correct installation that meets engineering design requirements.
Screw piles result in minimal disruption
Screw pile underpinning involves a minimum amount of excavation or soil disturbance and minimal interruption to you. This means in most cases, you or your tenants can stay uninterrupted in the property. Simply - it's neater!
Screw piles provide a permanent fix
Screw pile underpinning allows a cost effective reach to deeper depths securing the structure below soil layers that shrink and swell with seasonal influences. Other methods that do not secure at this level are only a band-aid solution.
Screw piles deliver a predictable outcome
The same solid outcome. Every time. Screw piles are able to maintain a stable performance level as inevitable changes occur in the soil structure, whether natural due to seasonal cycles, roots from trees or other man-made influences such as plumbing leaks. Screw piles are designed to perform consistently in all these conditions.
Screw piles are safer
Safer for people. Safer for the earth. The screw pile foundation system greatly simplifies the construction process, providing a safer work environment, whilst minimising the impact on the earth through disturbance and use of materials. No chemicals injected into the ground.
Screw piles are highly accurate and built to last
With the Katana screw pile method, precision accuracy in placement of piles is assured. And once in the ground in the exact spot they’re needed, the piles are made to last - built with quality Australian steel and built in Australia at a modern manufacturing facility.
More reasons to choose screw piles?
Certainly, we could list more! And depending on your building type and site conditions, there are often other advantages, such as ease of access and logistics of getting materials on site, minimal spoil from excavated soil, use in highly reactive soils and problem sites, and a whole lot more.
If you have any questions about these reasons, or specific questions about your site, reach out to us for a more in depth conversation as to whether screw piles are a good fit for you.