Environmental Benefits of Using Helical Piles as a Foundation Solution for Residential Projects

There is an increasing number of questions around the environmental benefits of using helical piles. More and more people are turning to this system as a foundation solution for residential construction projects, instead of traditional concrete foundations. We've listed here, the main reasons why helical piles can help create a more sustainable construction process:

Reduced Concrete Usage Equals Smaller Carbon Footprint

Traditional foundation methods involve pouring large amounts of concrete. As an example, a typical home might need approximately 100 to 300 tons of concrete for its foundation. The manufacturing of cement needed, and placement of the reinforced concrete, comes with significant carbon emissions. Steel structures, including helical piles, are much lighter and more efficient at carrying loads than their concrete counterparts. The difference in weight also accounts for a reduction in carbon emissions.

Minimal Site Disruption

The installation of helical piles involves the use of smaller and quieter machinery that can avoid excavation altogether. This reduces site disruption and causes minimal disturbance, leaving only a small environmental footprint. An example we see often is that trees, landscaped areas, and natural environments are protected when using helical piles.

Pouring traditional concrete foundations with accompanying equipment would however significantly damage existing roots and cause site disturbance. In situations where environmental protection is a concern, such as water, marine, or wetland applications like boardwalks, pedestrian bridges, docks, or boat houses, helical piles are a great alternative. Using helical piles eliminates the need for excess excavation and soil disposal elsewhere, which also results in fewer carbon emissions.

Eco-Friendly Installation Machinery

Our installation machines use biodegradable hydraulic fluids, making them a safer environmental choice for any sensitive natural areas, such as wetlands, lake, or river-side projects. Moreover, some of our installers use electric motors for indoor projects.

Reusable and Recyclable

While concrete piers are permanently set in the ground, helical piles can be removed, reused, and recycled at the end of their service life. Although we have not yet received any requests for pile removal for recycling purposes, we are frequently called for deck or house remodeling projects on which helical piles were used as the foundation. On such occasions, we unscrew and reuse these piles along with new ones. We have found that for new remodeling projects, this process significantly reduces product waste. This is impossible to do with concrete piers.

Choosing to use helical piles instead of traditional foundation methods for residential construction projects, can help minimize the carbon footprint, reduce the environmental impact of concrete production and transportation, and promote a more sustainable solution for our planet.