Do You Need to Install New Piles Below Your Property?
Posted on: 23 June 2023
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Have you noticed any signs of damage to your property, such as cracks in walls or uneven floors? These can be indications that the foundation of your property has been compromised. One option to repair your foundation is to install new piles beneath your property. But how do you know if this is necessary? And could this be the right solution for your property?
What are Piles?
Piles are long structural elements that are driven deep into the ground to support a foundation. When the soil underneath a property is not strong enough to support the weight of the building, piles can be installed to provide additional support. Piles can be made from various materials, including concrete, steel or timber. You can also find adjustable versions these days for even more flexibility.
What are the Signs that Piles Need to be Installed?
The first sign that piles may need to be installed is visible damage to your property's foundation. If you notice cracks in your walls, some uneven floors, or doors that don't close properly, this may indicate that your property's foundation is compromised. If you're not sure if these signs indicate the need for piles, it's best to hire a professional to assess the situation.
Another sign that piles may need to be installed is soil movement. If the soil underneath your property is shifting due to natural causes such as earthquakes or landslides, it can cause your foundation to shift as well. This can cause foundation damage which can be repaired by adding piles.
How to Determine if Piles are Needed for Your Property
The best way to determine if piles are needed for your property is to hire a professional to conduct a geotechnical investigation. This involves drilling test boreholes to determine the soil composition and strength. The results of this investigation should help you to determine if piles are needed and what type of piles should be installed.
The type of piles that are needed for your property will depend on various factors, including soil composition, foundation load and weather conditions. If you live in an area with an earthquake risk, for example, the piles that are installed will need to be designed to withstand seismic activity.
What to Do Now
In summary, if you notice any signs of foundation damage, it's important to seek professional advice to determine the best solution. If installing piles is recommended, it's wise to hire a professional contractor with experience in this area to ensure that the work is done correctly. Ultimately, installing piles under your property can provide peace of mind that your home or commercial property is safe and secure.
Reach out to a local piling contractor to learn more.