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Ultimate Screw Piling -
Frequently Asked Questions
See below a list of our FAQ's that we come across from new and existing customers. Some of them may help you to answer some initial questions.
If you can think of anything else you may want to ask us, please do not hesitate to contact the team.
1) What are Screw Piles and Ground Screws?
Screw piles, also known as ground screws, are innovative foundation systems extensively used in the UK to support various structures. Comprising steel shafts with helical plates, they are twisted into the ground, providing stable and reliable foundations for a wide range of construction projects.
2) How do Screw Piles and Ground Screws work?
Screw piles and ground screws work on the principle of helical advancement. The helical plates enable easy rotation of the piles into the soil, similar to a screw being driven into wood. This action creates a secure anchoring point, capable of withstanding vertical and horizontal loads, making them ideal for foundations in the UK's diverse soil conditions.
3) What are the advantages of using Screw Piles and Ground Screws in the UK?
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Rapid Installation: Screw piles can be quickly installed with minimal equipment, reducing construction time and costs, which is especially beneficial in the UK's fast-paced building environment.
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Versatility: They are suitable for a wide range of applications, including residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects across the UK.
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Environmentally Friendly: Screw piles have a low environmental impact as they don't require excavation or concrete, minimizing soil disturbance, which aligns with the UK's sustainability goals.
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Load Capacity: They offer high load-bearing capacities, making them suitable for both light and heavy structures, meeting the stringent building standards in the UK.
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Removability: Screw piles can be easily unscrewed and reused in other projects, making them a sustainable foundation option and supporting the UK's commitment to circular construction practices.
4) In what soil conditions can Screw Piles and Ground Screws be used in the UK?
Screw piles are highly adaptable and can be used in various soil types found in the UK, including clay, sand, silt, and even rocky terrain. Their design allows them to overcome challenges posed by different ground conditions prevalent in different regions.
5) How do you install your screw piles?
We utilise various methods of installation of our screwpiles, both machine and handheld. Both options use different sized 'Torque' Heads, rotary motors that power the piles into the ground - we have adapted specific machinery to give us the ability to install in difficult areas - only needing 750mm of width to gain access, we can enter through a house to get to a site. We also go up to 8ton machines to install our piles where access on a site is very good and we have a large quantity of piles required. Using a larger machine means we can use our larger torque head which works at a faster rotational speed, that speeds up the installation.
We also offer a handheld option, although this option is project dependent.
6) Are Screwpiles environmentally friendly?
Yes, Screw Piles and Ground Screws are environmentally friendly in the UK. Their installation process requires no excavation or concrete, reducing the carbon footprint. Additionally, their removability and reusability align with the UK's focus on sustainable construction practices.
7) Are Screwpiles suitable for applications where tree roots are causing site problems?
Yes, Screw Piles and Ground Screws are by far the most cost effective and most suited solution for projects where tree roots are in the way, or potentially present. Arboriculturalists will often refer USP to clients to help get over any problems that may arise on a project where tree roots are causing an unknown difficulty or obstruction. Ask one of our team for help on this element of your project or download our Arboriculture Support Document for Screw Pile Installation
8) How do Screw Piles compare to traditional foundation methods in the UK?
Compared to traditional foundation methods like concrete footings, Screw Piles and Ground Screws offer several advantages in the UK. They are faster to install, more cost-effective, and create minimal disturbance to the site, making them a preferred choice for many construction projects.
9) Can Screw Piles be used in residential construction in the UK?Absolutely! Screw Piles and Ground Screws are widely used in residential construction in the UK for various applications, such as supporting decks, patios, conservatories, and even the foundations of entire houses. They provide a reliable and long-lasting foundation solution suitable for the UK's diverse housing needs.
10) Are Screw Piles suitable for commercial and industrial projects in the UK?
Yes, Screw Piles and Ground Screws are well-suited for commercial and industrial projects in the UK. They offer the strength and stability required to support structures such as warehouses, storage facilities, communication towers, and more.
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