Concrete Piers vs. Helical Piers: Choosing the Right Foundation for Your Custom Pool

The foundation is critical to ensuring the structure’s longevity and stability when building a custom pool. Two popular options for pool piers are concrete piers and helical piers. Understanding the differences between these two methods can help you make an informed decision that suits your specific needs and soil conditions.

Concrete Piers

Concrete piers are a traditional foundation method that involves drilling holes into the ground and filling them with reinforced concrete. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of concrete piers:

Pros:

Strength and Stability: Concrete piers provide robust support for heavy structures, making them a reliable choice for custom pools.

Durability: Once set, concrete piers can last for decades, offering a long-term solution for pool stability.

Customizable: The size and depth of concrete piers can be adjusted to match the specific requirements of your pool and soil conditions.

Cons:

Installation Time: The process of drilling, setting rebar, and pouring concrete can be time-consuming, often taking several days to complete.

Curing Period: Concrete requires time to cure and reach its full strength, which can delay the construction timeline.

Soil Sensitivity: Concrete piers may not be suitable for all soil types, particularly in expansive or highly unstable areas.

Helical Piers

Helical piers, also known as screw piles, are a modern alternative that involves driving steel shafts with helical blades into the ground. These piers provide support through both end-bearing and skin friction. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of helical piers:

Pros:

Quick Installation: Helical piers can be installed rapidly with minimal site disruption, often completed within a day.

Immediate Load-Bearing: Unlike concrete piers, helical piers can bear loads immediately after installation, allowing for faster construction progress.

Versatility: Helical piers are suitable for various soil conditions, including areas with expansive soils or high water tables.

Adjustability: The depth of helical piers can be easily adjusted on-site to reach stable soil layers, providing a tailored solution for varying ground conditions.

Cons:

Cost: Helical piers can be more expensive than concrete piers due to the specialized equipment and materials required.

Corrosion: Over time, the steel components of helical piers may be susceptible to corrosion, especially in aggressive soil environments. Proper coating and maintenance are essential to mitigate this risk.

Choosing the Right Pier for Your Pool

The choice between concrete and helical piers depends on several factors, including soil conditions, project timeline, and budget. Here are some considerations to help guide your decision:

Soil Conditions: Concrete piers may be a suitable and cost-effective option if your property has stable, non-expansive soils. Helical piers provide better adaptability and reliability for areas with challenging soil conditions, such as high clay content or water tables.

Project Timeline: If you’re looking to expedite the construction process, helical piers offer quick installation and immediate load-bearing capacity. This can be particularly beneficial for projects with tight deadlines.

Budget: While concrete piers may initially seem more cost-effective, consider the long-term maintenance and potential soil-related issues. Although more expensive up front, helical piers can offer greater peace of mind and durability in problematic soil conditions.

Both concrete piers and helical piers have their unique benefits and limitations. Assessing your needs and consulting with a professional pool builder can help determine the best foundation method for your custom pool. At Emerald Custom Pools, we have the expertise to evaluate your site conditions and recommend the optimal foundation solution, ensuring a stable and long-lasting pool for your enjoyment.

Contact us today to learn more about our custom pool-building services and how we can help you create your dream backyard oasis.