Piled Foundations

Piled Foundations: Explained

Piled foundations are the reason tall buildings like the Burj Khalifa can stand up. They consist of piles being driven into the ground to stabilise the structure. Piled foundations are the best option for erecting properties that are more than a few stories high.

When Do You Need Piled Foundations?


Before you can even begin construction, a qualified assessment must take place to discover the right foundation solution for your site ground. This will tell you what type of land conditions can allow piling to occur. For example, low bearing capacity subsoils such as wet clay are not suitable because they will be unable to support high loads. Therefore, over time a building may experience settlement. In contrast, high bearing capacity subsoils are effective. They can bear high loads, and this will allow structures to be successful projects.

What Is Piling?

There are two main types of piles: end bearing and friction. End bearing piles transfer load straight to solid strata. Whereas, friction piles are used when the solid strata are not strong enough. So with sheer strength load is transferred. The piling company that you hire should assess your soil conditions and choose the appropriate design. Other factors like accessibility and neighbouring buildings must also be considered.

Bored Piles

Replacement or bored piles are driven into the ground. The process mainly involves pouring concrete and replacing the subsoil. Bored types remove the subsoil and then install a cylindrical tube for the concrete.

Driven Piles

Displacement or driven piles are driven into the ground too, but with hydraulic rams and hammers instead. The piles dislodge the existing subsoil as it travels below ground.

Pile Caps

Pile caps rest on top of each pile. With concrete, they tie together to provide a stable foundation for the structure. Pile type is another necessary part of the equation selected by your builder and installed at ground level.

The Cost Of Hiring A Piling Company

Piling foundations can vary in price depending on what is required by the engineer. For example, screw piling is a cheaper option because piling is faster and less messy without concrete.


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