FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Helical Piles
Prime piles simplifies construction projects requiring a foundation. Our helical piles areinstalled using machines specifically designed for this purpose. These helical piles are screwed into the ground until they reach the necessary depth to support various structures, from decks to multi-storey buildings. Our machines ensure quick and efficient installation, allowing you to start building immediately without the need for digging holes or pouring concrete.
Our team use specialized equipment to screw the pile into the ground until it reaches the required bearing capacity. The helix of the pile supports the load. A gauge on the installation machine measures the torque, allowing us to confirm the bearing capacity on-site during installation. This ensures our team know the exact allowable load capacities of each pile once installed.
After installation, our pile caps are used to connect the pile to the framing system. Prime pile caps come in various sizes and types to match different framing structures.
Yes, Prime piles are versatile and can be installed in a wide range of soil types, including clay, granular, rocky, silt, and organic soils.
Yes, in Canada, our Prime Piles are certified by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC). This certification ensures that our products meet the stringent standards of the National Building Code of Canada.
Our smallest machine, the Bobcat MT 100, requires a minimum access width of just 38 inches (97 cm), allowing it to easily maneuver through a standard door frame.
The installation time for each helical pile is approximately 30 minutes.
One of our most frequently asked questions is about the cost of helical piles. The price varies depending on the type of project. For instance, the cost for piles used in a deck foundation will differ from those used in a house extension or supporting a cottage structure.
Several factors influence the cost, including:
- Types of Loads Needing Support: Heavier structural weights require larger support systems, leading to higher project costs. We evaluate the necessary piles to accommodate the load.
- Length of the Piles: In low-density soil, extensions may need to be added to the helical piles to reach proper soil density, which increases the expense.
- Helix Dimensions: The diameter of the helix also affects the cost. For example, a screw pile with a 16-inch helix will be more expensive than one with an 8-inch helix
Our Company provides exceptional service from manufacturing to installation, ensuring our customers benefit from our advanced technology and industry-leading performance. We stand out by offering a 25-year limited warranty on our screw piles, backed by a team of accessible and innovative experts dedicated to providing peace of mind to our customers.
Permit
Yes, we offer permit application services. We can provide engineered and architect stamped permit drawings for your project as needed. Our goal is to streamline the permitting process and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Yes, we provide stamped foundation plans before installation. These plans are available for clients who wish to use them in their permit applications. Our goal is to assist in ensuring a smooth permit approval process by providing detailed and certified foundation plans upfront.
Yes, Conformity Reports can be provided upon completion of pile installation for projects for your projects.
Yes, we provide specialized engineering services for helical piles. Simply send your plans to us, and we will coordinate with our engineers on your behalf.
General
Helical pile foundations offer significant advantages over traditional concrete foundations. Here’s why they’re preferred:
- Time and Cost Savings: Helical piles eliminate the need for excavation, concrete curing time, and site repairs, saving you both time and money.
- Immediate Stability: Ensures project stability from the outset, preventing additional costs that may arise from potential soil movement.
When comparing the costs of using concrete sonotubes versus Prime Pile screw piles, you save on labor and on-site time while investing in engineering expertise and precision for a high-quality foundation.This ensures your structure is not only guaranteed but also strong, safe, and durable.
Our engineering team specializes in geotechnical and structural engineering. They assess each project to determine the optimal Techno Metal Post models based on structure type, project loads, and soil conditions.Maximum load capacity varies depending on these factors.
The number of piles needed for a deck varies based on project size and whether it is attached to an existing structure or free-standing. Attached decks require fewer, smaller-diameter piles as the existing structure supports lateral loads. Free-standing decks require more and larger-diameter piles to support lateral loads.Typically, deck designers specify the number and location of piles, with a general rule of thumb suggesting 8-10 feet spacing between piles.
Yes, helical piles can be reused.
You can begin your project immediately after l piles are installed. Unlike concrete, there is no drying time required.