Strong foundations are integral to the viability of any structure. But working out which type of foundations will give your project the best possible support can be difficult. Especially when many of the solutions can appear ostensibly similar. And one of the questions we are often asked is what is the difference between screw piles and bored piers?  

Screw Piles vs Bored Piers: What Do You Need to Know?

There are three main differentiators between screw piles and bored piers.

Soil movement

There are some projects where you simply don’t want the burden of having to move soil. It might be because you don’t want the hassle of removing it, or because you want your project to be completed with minimal disruption. Or you may simply not have the space to accommodate groundworks vehicles. But if soil movement is an issue for you, screw piles will almost always be the best option. Because the piles simply screw into the ground without need for excavation. While bored piers do produce excess soil that will need to be removed later.

Soil type

All foundation types have particular conditions that they’re simply not suitable for. While bedrock is the nemesis of screw piles, wet soil doesn’t lend itself to bored piers. So, if your soil has a higher moisture content, you’d be well advised to select screw piles. With bored piers, you’ll need to dig a much deeper shaft, and will often need to consider reinforcing the piers in other ways. 

Budget

Your budget has to be a consideration before you embark on any project. And while there are no hard and fast rules, because every project is different, because the use of screw piles requires no groundworks or soil removal, it can often be notably cheaper than other methods. Especially if you take the hand-installation approach. Bored piers will usually cost more simply because you will need to factor in soil removal and equipment hire. And if you’re working in conditions with high moisture content, you will need to work in the cost of reinforcement.

Screw piles and ground piers are both great foundations for buildings and other structures. But they each have their place. And if you’re looking to erect a shed, garden room, or extension in normal, non-gravel soil conditions, then screw piles probably have the edge.  

If you’re looking for screw piles to begin your next construction project, get in touch with UK Helix for advice on the best screw pile products for the job.  

Disclaimer –Information in this blog does not in any way constitute building advice or guidance for private or commercial building projects.