How Long Does It Take to Install a Helical Pile?

The Step-by-Step Helical Pile Installation Process

While every project is different, the typical helical pile installation process follows these steps:

1. Site Preparation – The job site is assessed, and locations for pile installation are marked. Any necessary excavation is completed to expose foundation areas.

2. Drive Head Setup – A hydraulic drive head is attached to a machine such as an excavator or skid steer to screw piles into the ground.

3. Installing the Lead Section – The first section of the helical pile, called the lead section, is driven into the soil. The helical plates on the lead section help it advance into stable ground.

4. Adding Extensions – Additional steel shaft extensions are added as needed until the pile reaches the required load-bearing depth.

5. Load Testing – A load test may be conducted to ensure the pile meets the necessary bearing capacity for the structure.

6. Final Adjustments – The pile is cut to the appropriate height, and brackets are installed to connect it to the foundation system.

Each of these steps is completed efficiently, often allowing helical pier installation to be finished in a single day for smaller projects.

How Long Does a Typical Helical Pile Installation Take?

The total time for installation varies depending on the project size and complexity.

• Residential Foundation Repairs – For foundation stabilization, helical piers can typically be installed in one to three days, depending on the number of piles required.

• New Construction – Installing helical piles for a new foundation often takes two to five days, depending on soil conditions and structure size.

• Decks and Small Structures – Piles for decks, porches, and smaller projects may take only a few hours to install.

• Commercial or Large-Scale Projects – Larger structures require more piles and load testing, extending installation time to a week or more.

In comparison to traditional foundation systems, which require extensive excavation and curing time for concrete footings, screw piles provide a much faster and more efficient solution.

Why Helical Piles Are a Time-Saving Foundation Solution

Helical piles offer significant time-saving advantages over traditional foundational methods:

• Minimal Excavation Required – No need for large-scale digging or pouring concrete footings.

• Immediate Load Bearing – Once installed, helical piers can support structures immediately, reducing project delays.

• Faster Installation Process – Most helical piles can be installed in a matter of hours or days.

• Less Disruption to Existing Foundations – They can be installed around existing structures with minimal impact.

Because of these benefits, helical pile installation is a preferred foundation system for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

Conclusion

The time it takes to install helical piles depends on factors like soil conditions, load-bearing needs, and project size. In most cases, helical piers can be installed significantly faster than traditional foundation methods, with smaller jobs completed in a single day and larger projects requiring only a few days to a week. Their quick installation process, combined with their long-term durability and strength, makes helical piles a smart choice for foundation stabilization and new construction.