3 Things You Should Know About Piling and Its Benefits

Posted on: 23 August 2022

Share  

The foundation of a building is the link between it and the soil that supports it. The role of a foundation is to transfer the structure's weight and distribute it to the ground underneath it. Therefore, the type and quality of foundation you choose will determine your building's stability. Piling is one of the types of foundation that contractors use. It involves using a long and slender column to transfer the load from the superstructure to the ground beneath. Here are some things you should know about this foundation type. 

When You Might Need the Foundation

Foundation contractors have several choices when it comes to foundation types. They typically recommend the use of piling as a foundation under specific circumstances. It is the solution they offer when the surface layer of soil is too weak to handle the weight of the superstructure. They might also recommend it when the superstructure is a heavy building comprising several floors above the ground. They recommend it in places where the ground water table is high because the soil is prone to regular changes in moisture levels. Finally, they might recommend it in cases where they believe other foundation types will be too expensive. 

The Types of Piles Used to Make the Foundation

Foundation contractors use different types of piles in their construction projects. They might recommend sheet piles made from steel, reinforced concrete and timber. They drive these into the ground using vibratory hammers. These are good for retaining walls and structures that protect your building from erosion. The second type is load-bearing piles. These transfer the load from the superstructure deep into the soil using end-bearing or frictional mechanisms. The length varies depending on the building's weight and the composition of the ground underneath.

The Benefits of Using a Pile Foundation

This type of foundation works on all hard-to-deal-with soil structures. It is excellent on wetlands and also on dry and rocky grounds. The piles last for a long time and are the least likely to lead to foundation issues in the future. They are desirable for wetland construction, and you can pre-order and have the manufacturers make them ahead of the project.

Piling is one of the foundation types you should consider for your construction project. Consult your foundation contractor about the option and its feasibility before deciding whether to invest in it. You will get a durable and structurally sound structure from them.