We recommend steel piers over polyurethane foam when a permanent, engineered structural solution is required. While polyurethane foam is an effective tool for filling voids and performing minor, non-structural lifts for concrete slabs (typically under 2 inches), it is not a permanent fix for structural foundation settlement.
Our advanced earth anchoring systems are designed to address the root cause of settlement by transferring building loads past unstable surface soils down to competent load-bearing strata or bedrock. There are three primary reasons why our engineering team and network of structural engineers prefer steel systems:
- Superior Load-Bearing Capacity: Steel helical or push piers can support loads exceeding 100 tons per pier. In contrast, polyurethane foam is generally limited to lifting slabs and supporting lighter loads, typically under 20 tons.
- Stability in Expansive or Wet Soils: In environments with high moisture or expansive clay, shallow solutions like foam can be compromised by soil movement. Steel piers bypass these active zones entirely, providing long-term durability that foam cannot match.
- Permanent Underpinning: Unlike foam, which may degrade or require re-application over time, our ICC and ISO Certified products provide a permanent foundation repair solution. Steel systems are the industry standard for perimeter foundations, load-bearing walls, and commercial columns.
Because every project presents unique geotechnical challenges, we provide Engineering Excellence and Design Support to ensure the right system is utilized.
Consult a structural engineer or the manufacturer’s engineering team for project-specific design and installation guidance. Products are certified to ICC/ISO where indicated — installations must comply with applicable building codes and ICC-ES acceptance criteria (AC358).
Related FAQs
-
What are the Pros and Cons of Helical Piers vs Push Piers?
Read More »: What are the Pros and Cons of Helical Piers vs Push Piers?When evaluating foundation repair solutions, the choice between helical piers and push piers depends on load mechanisms, soil conditions, and project scale. Below are the primary pros and cons of each system: ### Helical Piers Pros: Immediate Load Capacity: They…
-
Which Pier System is Best for Underpinning a Sinking Foundation?
Read More »: Which Pier System is Best for Underpinning a Sinking Foundation?Selecting the best pier system for a sinking foundation depends on several project-specific factors, including soil conditions, structural loads, and accessibility. Both push piers and helical piers offer reliable underpinning solutions, but they function differently: Push Piers: These are often…
-
Which is Better for Residential Foundation Repair: Push Piers or Helical Piers?
Read More »: Which is Better for Residential Foundation Repair: Push Piers or Helical Piers?Selecting between push piers and helical piers for residential foundation repair depends on your specific soil conditions, the weight of the structure, and the accessibility of the site. ### Helical Piers for Residential Use Helical piers are frequently the preferred…
-
When should I Use Push Piers Instead of Helical Piers?
Read More »: When should I Use Push Piers Instead of Helical Piers?When determining the appropriate foundation repair solution, push piers are typically used in specific scenarios where their unique mechanical principles offer an advantage over helical piers. You should use push piers when: Reaching deep bearing strata: They are an ideal…
-
What Foundation Repair Products do I Need for a Helical Pier Kit?
Read More »: What Foundation Repair Products do I Need for a Helical Pier Kit?A standard helical pier kit provided by Helical Technology includes all the necessary components for field assembly and installation. To successfully implement this system, you will need the following products: Lead Section: This is the initial structural point of load…