Underpinning - Helical Piers

Underpinning in a nutshell:  Underpinning is a method used to increase the foundation depth to repair faulty foundations therefore suppling structural support to the footer. This might be the case if you plan to add stories to an existing structure or when your existing foundation has been damaged.

Underpinning is also a method of lifting or stabilizing a sinking or settling foundation. Your structure relies on the the footing for support, as well as establishing a level platform for building. When the footer stability is compromised, Wall Anchors of Northern Ohio can install Piers much deeper, in a more solid, adequate lifting soil. Once piers are installed in a load bearing stratum, the footer / foundation can be lifted and supported back to normal.

The Underpinning process involves excavation to the footing area, installation of a lifting bracket and jacking system. Standard brackets and piers have a lifting capacity of 25,000 lbs per unit. Once the installation process has been completed the foundation can be lifted or stabilized and locked into place. If you have more questions regarding this procedure, please contact one of our consultants for a more detailed explanation.

Wall Anchors of Northern Ohio's piers consist of one or more helical-shaped circular steel plates welded to a central steel hub. The depth of the helical steel piers into the soil is typically extended by adding one or more steel hub extension shafts mechanically coupled together to form one long, continuous pier. Extensions can be with or without attached helical-shaped steel plates. Each helical steel plate is 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch thick and has an outer diameter ranging from 6 to 15 inches.

The central steel hub of both lead sections and extension sections are 2-7/8 inch diameter rounded tube steel.

Wall Anchors of Northern Ohio's piers are available in single, double, triple helix configurations. Helix sizes and bar sizes may be custom ordered in any combination as required for the application. Extension bars are available in 3, 5, 7 foot lengths.