Screw pile basics
How they actually work
What are screw piles?
Screw piles (also known as helical piles or helical piers) are deep foundation solutions made of steel shafts with helical (helix) plates welded to them. They are screwed into the ground to support structures such as buildings, modular homes, pools, and more.
How do screw piles work?
Screw piles are rotated into the ground using an excavator and drive motor. The helical (helix) plates pull the pile into the soil, allowing it to reach the required depth and load-bearing capacity specified by an engineer. Once in place, they provide strong, stable foundations.
What are the benefits of screw piles over traditional concrete foundations?
Minimal excavation, works in most soil conditions, removable and reusable, environmentally friendly, and ideal for tight or remote areas. Every pile is engineered and load-certified to AS2159.
How long do screw piles last?
When properly designed and installed, screw piles can last 50, 75, 100+ years, and can be coated with galvanised steel or other protective materials to enhance longevity and resist corrosion.
Projects & uses
What they're used for
From homes and pools to commercial and marine structures.
What types of projects are screw piles suitable for?
Screw piles are versatile and commonly used in residential homes, modular structures, and pools, through to commercial and industrial buildings, boardwalks, and marine structures.
Can screw piles be used for both new builds and renovations?
Yes. Screw piles are excellent for new construction as well as retrofit projects or foundation repairs. They can be installed next to or under existing structures with minimal disruption.
Can screw piles be removed?
Yes. Screw piles are fully removable, making them ideal for temporary structures or eco-sensitive projects.
Soil & capacity
Will they work on your block?
Soil suitability and how much load a pile can carry.
Are screw piles suitable for all soil types?
Screw piles work in a wide range of soils, including clay, silt, sand, and loam. They may not be ideal in very rocky or dense cobble soils, where pre-drilling might be required.
How much weight can a screw pile support?
Capacity varies based on pile design, soil type, and depth. Standard residential screw piles can typically support 10,000 to 25,000+ kg each. Testing can confirm exact capacity.
Install & compliance
Equipment, engineering, and approvals
How they go in, and what's needed for sign-off.
What equipment is needed to install screw piles?
Installation typically requires a drive motor mounted on an excavator or skid steer, or handheld units for small projects. The machinery depends on pile size and site conditions.
Are screw piles building-code approved?
Yes. Screw piles comply with most building codes when engineered and installed properly. Always check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits.
Do I need a structural engineer for screw piles?
Engineering and load calculations are highly recommended, and often mandated in order to get certified. We design and install to your engineer's specification and the soil report, and we also offer structural design and engineering services.
Cost & getting started
Pricing and next steps
What drives the cost, and how to find out if screw piles suit your project.
How much do screw piles cost?
Costs vary based on project size, soil conditions, pile size, and depth. Send your plans, engineering, and soil report through to sales@totalpiling.com.au for itemised pricing off your real documents, not estimates.
How do I know if screw piles are right for my project?
Speak with a qualified structural or geotechnical engineer. We can give advice too, so send your details through to sales@totalpiling.com.au or call Rob on 0419 008 549 and we'll let you know if it's a fit.
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