Helical piles – an innovation in the world of small architecture

Every building – whether it’s a small terrace or a small sauna – starts with the foundations. But did you know that the foundations for small architecture can be easily installed in just a few hours, in any weather, and all year round. Steel bolts driven into the ground – screw piles, also known as helical foundations – make construction projects so efficient. This is not only a novelty, but also an ingenious solution for a small architectural structure.

What are helical piles? It’s not just metal rods with screws. This is – a revolution in construction, allowing a different perspective on foundations, bringing convenience and efficiency.

The principle of operation of screw piles is fascinatingly simple – they work in the same way as wood screws. The poles are normally installed by hand-turning. For more helical piles, special pile driving equipment can be used to further facilitate and speed up the installation process. The screw pile presses down on the soil as it rotates and is firmly embedded in the soil, so it does not move it. This principle allows the poles to be screwed into almost any soil without the need for additional fixing. The windings of the helical poles help to prevent collapse. The vertical load is distributed over the entire area through the structural layers.

There are several types of helical foundations. The most popular are the M and U piles, which can be used for all possible small structures. The versatile helical foundations are suitable for a terrace, a gazebo, a fence, a garage, a greenhouse, a pantry, an aviary, a hot tub, even a children’s playground. These types of helical foundations have also been successfully used for structures in the water, such as piers, gangways, bathhouses and various bridges.

Helical foundations: overview and analysis

The most versatile M and U screw piles

The M and U piles add variety to the architecture. Their potential uses are almost unlimited. The M-pile can be efficiently and easily integrated into the design of the terrace to ensure the strength of the terrace foundation. U-piles are commonly used for fences or pergolas. It is the versatility of the piles and the possibility to adapt them to different needs that makes the construction of individual buildings possible. Helical piles can easily be combined with other types of foundations such as pedestals.

The most common helical piles used for terraces and other lightweight structures are 68mm in diameter and 885mm to 1300mm long, depending on soil type and other factors. For heavier structures, such as small bathhouses and summer houses, helical foundations with a diameter of 76mm and a length of 1200mm to 2050mm are commonly used.

Withstands relatively high loads

Although the helical pole itself is not very massive, it can withstand quite high loads. Typically, helical foundations can withstand a vertical load of 400-4000 kg, depending on the diameter of the pile, the thickness of the metal wall, the length of the pile and other aspects. . When the pole is rotated into the ground, it is subject to frictional force and unbroken windings due to holding points. Because of the same winding, a very high force is needed to drive the helical foundation deeper and to overcome all the points of support. In the case of compression, the propeller wants to rotate, but because it is connected to the barrel, it cannot rotate. This ensures the strength and stability of the foundation.

The key advantage of helical foundations is ease of installation

What makes these foundations special? First of all, they do not pollute the environment. Concrete and excavation are no longer needed to create stable foundations for small architectural structures. Helical foundations are not only easy to install, but also extremely robust. Their installation is more like a creative process than complex engineering. A pole can be screwed into the ground like a bolt, but it is bigger and has more options. This enables anyone without special professional skills to install the foundations of a building without the need for high costs and complex processes. This combination of simplicity and functionality appeals to anyone who wants to create a project that is not only robust but also easy to implement.

Weather-independent stability

Why are helical piles becoming an indispensable part of construction? This is because they can be used to install the foundations of objects in all weathers, all year round. Helical foundations are not only a practical solution, but also a way to create a hassle-free construction, giving buildings stability that is not affected by weather conditions.

One of the main advantages of helical piles is the ability to continue construction work on the same day, unlike with concrete foundations. This is especially true during the cold season, when the setting time of concrete is particularly prolonged and the project timeframe changes accordingly. It is sometimes said that helical foundations will not withstand Lithuania’s cold weather and that winter frost will raise the poles. This is not justified if the helical foundations are installed correctly, i.e. y. soil properties, height above ground (to the structure) and loads. Whether it’s high winds, torrential rain or heavy snowfall, they remain stable and robust. This is not just a practical feature – it is a feeling of reliability that can be decisive in ensuring the stability of buildings, regardless of the changing seasons.

A modern solution for outdoor lighting – luminaire poles

One of the more exciting innovations mdsterasos.lt in the range are foundations for outdoor luminaires, otherwise known as luminaire poles. They help to create quality lighting for outdoor spaces. For example, if the original location of the luminaire is not suitable, it is easy to change it, as the helical poles can be easily screwed in and out.

The luminaire’s poles allow you to create unparalleled illumination without wasting time on excavation and concreting work. In addition, the poles themselves have cavities for wiring. This is a great alternative to the traditional way of installing outdoor luminaires. It is characterised by innovation and functionality, while the exterior spaces are elegant and modern.

Environmental friendliness is important for those who care

What other benefits of helical piles can be mentioned? Not only do they save time and effort, they are also environmentally friendly. Poles do not damage nature and contribute to sustainability. This is important in the construction industry to reduce negative environmental impacts.

Helical piles are definitely a convenient choice for those who care about sustainability and environmental friendliness. The construction process will not require the use of concrete, which can adversely affect the soil. These foundations do not have a negative impact on nature and allow us to be conscious creators of the environment. The use of rectangular piles demonstrates a commitment to not only modern, but also environmentally friendly construction projects.