FAQ

A: A helical pier is a steel shaft with helices, similar to a large screw, that provides a foundation support for various types of structures. The shaft is usually square and manufactured in 5 foot sections. Helical piers are often used when challenging soil conditions prohibit a traditional foundation system. They are also commonly used to correct and support existing foundations that have settled or failed.

A: The cost is dictated by the design, size, and weight of the structure and the adjacent soil conditions. The load to be supported dictates the size the helical pier shaft. The supporting layer of soil dictates how many helices are used for the lead section. We offer free estimates and can give you a better feel for the costs once we understand the conditions specific to your situation.

A: Because each helical pier is installed to a specific load requirement rather than a specified depth, each application is different. A typical depth is about 20 feet, but can be as shallow as 10 feet and as deep as 60 feet or more. With state of the art shear pin indicators and precise hydraulic gauges, every Helical Pier is torque tested and installed to the proper designed load for the structure.

A: A reversible hydraulic drill motor is attached to a small excavator for exterior applications or to a portable jib for interior work.

A: The footing is replaced with helical piers permanently attached to the foundation wall at the footing level.

A: One of the main advantages to helical piles is that no concrete is used, therefore the next phase of construction can begin immediately.

A: A special bracket attaching the Helical Pier to the existing foundation is designed to accept a hydraulic jack for the lifting process. The bracket is a permanent part of the installation and maintains the lift after the jack is removed.

A: Helical piles can be installed in areas as small as a coat closet. We have portable equipment that can be used in very small spaces. Compared to other pile and pier methods our equipment is relatively small and less intrusive.

A: We typically put plywood on the landscaping and grass to protect it from our equipment, and are very careful around any building. Some landscaping may need to be removed to gain adequate access to problem areas of foundation. At the time when we provide a free estimate, we can identify any specific impacts to existing landscaping.

A: An engineering term used to represent 1,000 pounds. It is short for kilo-pounds.

A: With new construction, 30 or more helical piles can be installed in a day. With existing structures, usually four can be installed in a day.

A: All of our permanent employees are factory trained and experienced helical pier installers. We own multiple pieces of installation equipment. This flexibility lets us start most jobs within a couple of days.

A: Intermountain Helical Pier has a written Exclusive Lifetime Warranty that is attached with the structure. In today’s world, most home or commercial structures are sold within 5 years, so our warranty is attached to the structure for its life and not the owner. Our warranty states we will be responsible for and damage to the structure caused by a failed Helical Pier, due to improper installation or material defects. This is in writing and insured. Each owner receives a written copy at the conclusion of the project.

A: Helical Piers are coated with the latest galvanizing known to the industry. This protects the piers from rust and corrosion. In most soils there is a life expectancy of over 150 years or more. Each soil type has characteristics that are different so if a life expectancy number is required, a test can be preformed for the specific soil on the project. This test can be preformed by a Geotechnical firm usually for a small cost.

A: Intermountain Helical Piers is licensed, insured, certified and bondable. The state of Utah requires all contractors to be licensed and insured. Certification is usually required by the owner of the project and state and city building departments. This insures that the Helical Pier installers are properly trained in the technical installation of a deep steel foundation. This certification is administered by the manufacturer of the materials to its dealer and installers and is done every two years. This is important for proper installation techniques and warranties. Being bondable will indicate the strength of the Helical Pier company. All of these credentials are crucial in today’s construction climate and for a quality installation.

A: We have over 15 years of focused, specific experience. Ask our competition how many years they have been installing helical piers.

A: All commercial projects require a special inspector to witness the pier lay-out, installation, the type of pier used, the installing and testing devices, and completed pier depth. The inspector is typically contracted directly with the owner. A special inspection on a residential project is at the option of the owner. The inspection report will be given to the owner and building inspector at the conclusion of the project.

A: For installations on existing buildings, we will call blue stakes prior to arriving at the site.

A: The helical pier design eliminates the guess work of providing adequate support for the building. Other systems design in a margin of error to compensate for unknown factors.

A: Intermountain Helical Piers installs Heli-Pile brand piers because they are the highest quality and offer the most options to meet every deep foundation challenge. They use stronger steel and helices than most other pier brands, and have specific design differences in their design that we believe makes them superior.

A: No, because we believe helical piers are the best and most reliable deep foundation system.

A: Yes, we will travel to other states.  We have gone as far as Alaska, Illinois, California, and Oklahoma to install helical piers and shoring.

A: We work within the established payment procedures of most public, industrial, and commercial projects. For work on existing buildings and most residential projects, payment for materials is due upon arrival at the job site. This occurs only after you accept an estimate and schedule the work. The balance is due upon completion of the work.

A: Because the helices carry the load of the structure and you want that load supported by the best soil available. This is called ‘true end bearing capacity’.

A: Most settlement problems are detected and therefore repaired before the structural integrity of your home is compromised.

A: No. Family life is not interrupted except by the most severe cases.

A: Some other companies have tried to install helical piers in the intermountain area, but struggle to execute jobs with the speed, experience, and quality that Intermountain Helical Piers does.

A: We will remove concrete related to a specific helical pier job, but we are not a concrete or landscaping contractor. We do not install sidewalks, driveways, concrete foundation walls, sod, mulch, trees, etc.