Are Helical Piers or Push Piers Better?

Helical piers and push piers are two different types of support systems meant to stabilize settling foundations. There are some very slight differences in the way that they are installed and their functionality depends on a few different factors. There is no such thing as “better” or “worse” when it comes to helical and push piers because both of them are viable, long-term solutions for foundation settling. However, the pier system that is chosen to support your home will be determined by a few things.

Most homeowners in St. Louis, MO will be recommended helical piers for foundation support. This is because helical piers do well when installed in softer soils. The Menfro soil of the region is fine and loose, meaning that helical piers will not have a problem getting installed. Helical piers are driven into the ground mechanically until reaching load-bearing soil. Once the proper soil depths have been reached, the helical pier doesn’t really need much else to do their jobs.

Push piers, on the other hand, are hydraulically pushed into the ground until reaching load-bearing soil. The only thing is, the push piers exert upwards pressure upon the house (which is what stops the settling), so the house needs to act as a counterweight. If the house isn’t heavy enough, the push piers will not stay down. Push piers can also be installed past sedimentary rock, which is something that helical piers cannot do, so the terrain type on your property is also a factor in choosing which pier system works for your home.