Push Piers vs. Helical Piers — Which Is Right for Your Home?
Steel push piers are driven hydraulically through weak soil layers until they reach load-bearing strata or bedrock. They are best suited for heavier structures (standard residential foundations and above) where there's enough dead load to drive the pier. Helical piers are screwed into the ground like a giant bolt and work well for lighter loads — porches, additions, garage slabs, and new construction where a foundation is being built over suspect soil. We evaluate soil conditions and load requirements to recommend the appropriate system.
How Pier Installation Works in Montgomery
After a site inspection and engineering assessment, we excavate small access pits beneath the affected foundation sections. Each pier bracket is attached to the underside of the footing, and sections of steel pier pipe are hydraulically driven until they reach refusal or a specified depth. The foundation load is then transferred to the pier system, and in some cases the foundation can be lifted toward its original elevation. The entire process typically requires 1–2 days for a standard residential job.
How Many Piers Does My Home Need?
Pier spacing is determined by the structural load and the degree of settlement. A typical residential corner or section experiencing movement requires 3–6 piers. A full-perimeter installation for a severely settled home may require 15–20 piers. We perform a load calculation as part of our inspection to specify the correct number and placement.
Pier Installation Cost in Montgomery
Steel push piers run $1,200–$1,800 per pier installed, including excavation, the pier itself, bracket, and backfill. Helical piers run $1,400–$2,000 per pier. Most residential jobs run $5,000–$15,000 depending on the number of piers required. All pier installations include a lifetime transferable warranty.