It's common for people to ask how to build a deck on a helical pier foundation. In fact, Techno Metal Post has developed various products that enable the connection between the pier and the structure it supports.
Whether we're talking about pile caps, anchoring systems, support systems, or support plates, all these terms describe the connecting components that facilitate your project's construction.
You have several support options available to you:
-Adjustable or fixed pile caps
-U-shaped or square plates
When we speak specifically of adjustable connections, we're referring to height-adjustable supports. These can be easily set during the deck-building process, facilitating your project. In the case of fixed pile caps, no height adjustment is possible. This option is only suitable for projects with predetermined heights.
We offer these support systems in different sizes, depending on the materials being used. U-shaped plates are particularly popular, because they allow the beam to be inserted and then screwed into from the side. Square plates, on the other hand, offer more working freedom. It's really a matter of personal choice, depending on your construction process.
Our helical piers can only be installed by our team of certified installers, using our unique, custom-built equipment. We pride ourselves on providing a high quality foundation solution for every project. To achieve this, our certified installers must do the work.
As each screw pile is installed, the torque is measured by our machines as the pile is driven into the ground and the allowable load capacity is accurately calculated. This method ensures that each installed pile will support the intended load for all types of projects. That said, we would be happy to review your project and provide you with a quote to meet your needs.
Using helical piers will save you time and money, since they don’t require any excavation, concrete curing time or site repairs. Also, ensuring your project’s stability will prevent additional costs resulting from probable soil movement.
In the United States, there are two certifications for Techno Metal Posts: IAPMO Er-481, based on IRC (International Residential Code), and ICC-ES ESR-3418, based on IBC (International Building Code).
In general, a geotechnical investigation (soil test) is not required for small residential projects. However, depending on the type of project to be carried out, the codes in force and the local authorities, a geotechnical study report may be requested and required for the issuance of your construction permit.
Techno Metal Posts are screwed into the ground by our certified installers using specialized and exclusive hydraulic equipment. It is driven until the pile reaches the soil layer that provides the required bearing capacity for your project. It is the helix that carries the load. On the installation machine, there is a gauge that measures the torque during the driving process, which allows us to confirm the bearing capacity on site during the installation of the pile. This way our certified installers know the exact allowable load capacities of each pile after installation.
Once installed, our pile caps are installed at the head of each pile to secure the structure. Pile caps are available in several sizes and varieties, depending on the dimensions and materials used for the structure.
The compliance report specific to your project can be provided once the installation of the piles is completed.
In the U.S., there are 2 certifications for Techno Metal Post helical piles: IAPMO Er-481, based on IRC (International Residential Code), and the other, ICC-ES ESR-3418, based on the IBC (International Building Code).
The client is responsible for contacting their underground service provider and for providing written proof that it has been done.
In the US, to help you find the Dig Safe services in your area, go to: http://call811.com/
It is the responsibility of the structure designer (builder, contractor, architect, etc.) to lay out the piles before the installation team arrives. We can propose a pile layout, but it must be validated by the structure designer. However, for simple and light structures (normal terrace, extension, etc.), we can make the location of the piles that you will have to approve.
The maximum load a Techno Metal Post helical pier can support depends on 2 factors:
1. The pier tubing diameter and strength:
To facilitate the selection process, our geotechnical and structural engineers have created a selection table that helps you choose which type of Techno Metal Post to use depending on the load to be supported.
2. The depth to reach the adequate soil bearing capacity:
At the time of installation, the installer refers to a correlation chart in order to validate the bearing capacity of the pier, based on soil quality.
Example: For a deck construction using a Techno Metal Post P2 pier with a 2.4" diameter, the maximum load-bearing capacity of each pier can be up to 11,000 lbs. This alone can support an elephant weighing more than 8,800 lbs.
Yes, the piles are initially screwed into the ground at an angle under the existing structure and then straightened. The minimum height required is 24 inches (60 cm).
This depends on the size of the deck- the bigger the project, the more piers will be required. The rule of thumb is to maintain a spacing of 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) between the piers.
It also matters whether the deck is attached to an existing structure or free-standing. If the deck were attached to a house, it would require fewer piers since the existing structure would take on a portion of the load. However, for a free-standing deck, more piers would be needed.
Examples:
- A 10' x 10' deck that is attached to a house needs 2 TMP helical piers.
- A 10' x 10' free-standing deck needs 4 TMP helical piers.
Techno Metal Posts can be installed in a wide variety of soils: clay, sand, granular, rock, silt, organic.
Our installation equipment can screw piers through soil containing moderate sized rocks. Our machines generate the appropriate torque for the pier to move these rocks. If necessary, the functions of the telescopic and mobile mast will be used to "steer" the pier around the rock during installation. In the case of shallow bedrock or larger rocks, a specialized anchoring system can be used.
Our smallest machine, the R2D, can easily fit through a standard door frame (29 inches / 75 cm).
We can install piles all year round, including winter. If necessary, we can pre-drill the area with an auger or use our "Thermarod" to thaw the soil before installing the piles.
To install a pile at a depth of 6 feet, it takes about 30 minutes per pile.
No. We will install the number of piles required according to the characteristics of your project. Our Engineering Department can help you determine the number of piles required for your application.
This is one of our most popular questions! It is important to know the type of project the piers will be used for. For example, the cost of piers for a deck foundation will be different from those used in a house extension or for supporting the structure of a cottage.
Several factors determine the cost, so we have listed a few examples below for your reference.
-Types of loads needing support
- Length of the piers
- Helix Dimensions
When you calculate the cost for the time and labor required to use concrete sonotubes, Techno Metal Posts represent a better deal - especially in terms of efficiency, technology, durability, and quality. With our screw piles, you save on labor and installation time while getting engineering expertise, precise installation, and a durable foundation that is guaranteed. Most importantly, the certainty that your structure will be strong, solid, and durable.
The Techno Metal Post team supports all its customers with a high level of service, from the stages of manufacturing to installation, so they can benefit from our technology and industry-leading expertise.
Techno Metal Post offers their customers peace of mind, thanks to a team of accessible and innovative experts, and a 25-year limited warranty on its screw piles.
