Push Piers vs Helical Piers: How to Choose
Resource guide | 7 min read

Push Piers vs Helical Piers: How to Choose

How push piers and helical piers differ, what each does best and the questions that lead to the right choice for your house.

The goal is the same

Both reach through weak soil to firm ground and carry the footing on steel. The difference is how they get there.

Each can stabilize a sinking foundation and, in many cases, lift it.

Push piers

Hydraulic rams drive steel tubes down using the weight of the house as resistance until they reach firm ground.

They suit heavier structures such as brick and block homes and can lift them gradually.

Helical piers

A shaft with screw plates is turned into the ground by a hydraulic motor. Torque readings show the capacity.

They suit lighter structures, porches, additions and sites with little weight to push against.

Soil and depth

Soil conditions decide how deep each pier must go. Both types can be extended to reach a stable layer.

Local experience with the soil matters.

Access and equipment

Both use compact equipment. Helical piers can often be installed from small spaces, including crawl-space openings.

We choose a method that fits your site.

Records and engineering

Ask for records of depth and torque or driving pressure, and, for larger jobs, an engineer-approved layout.

Records show each pier reached good support.

Our advice in one sentence

Choose the pier that matches your structure and soil, and insist on a layout, records and a clear explanation.

Questions

Quick answers.

Which is better for a brick house?

Push piers are often chosen for heavy brick houses, but the soil and structure decide.

Which is better for a porch?

Helical piers are often a better fit for lighter structures such as porches.

Can both lift a house?

Yes, within the limits of the structure.

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