Are you wondering which between concrete and steel piers is better for your foundation? Well, both are suitable structural supports, and the choice depends on your set of circumstances. The following considerations will help determine what best works to resolve your foundation issues.
Budget
The amount of money available for repairs determines the methods and materials you will employ in this project. Concrete piers are a convenient option if you are on a limited budget, since they are much cheaper to construct than steel piers. The installation equipment for concrete piers also happens to be less expensive.
Drainage
It would be unwise to install steel piers in soils with poor drainage because they would rust over time. The rust can go undetected and, over time, cause extensive damage to the piers and adversely affect the structural integrity of your building. The coating on the steel does not necessarily guarantee a longer lifespan, since the abrading that happens during the coat application process can decrease the lifespan. Concrete does not rust and would thus be a preferable option for soils with poor drainage, while steel works fine for well-drained soils.
Soil depth
Piers must be drilled up to the point of refusal, to provide adequate support to weak foundations. Soils that are not that deep have a low point of refusal, which works well for concrete piers. For instance, if the point of refusal ranges between 6-10 feet, concrete piers at this depth can provide the necessary uplift capacity and support and there is no need to dig further. On the other hand, deeper soils that go up to 22 feet require steel piers since they can be drilled deep enough to reach a solid bedrock and not be affected by soil movement. Concrete piers on deep soil are affected by soil movement affecting the stability of the foundation.
Landscaping
Steel pier foundation repair is environmental-friendly and minimally invasive because excavations are not as extensive. It is thus a better option if maintaining the landscape takes precedence over all other wants. Unlike steel piers, concrete pier foundation repairs involve extensive excavations, which is often invasive to the landscape, destroying all the flora and fauna that you so much seek to maintain.
The bottom line
Both types of piers are suitable for your foundation, and the choice should depend on your situation based on the above considerations.
Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair offers a wide range of foundation repair services in the entire Dallas metroplex, ensuring the structural integrity of your building remains intact. Contact us to get an estimate.