Helical Pile Installation: A Smart Foundation Solution
Helical piles—also referred to as screw piles—are an increasingly popular deep foundation option in Connecticut and Rhode Island, particularly for shoreline construction and projects with challenging soil conditions. At K.E. Braza Construction, we install helical pile systems to support new foundations, additions, decks, and structural repairs, providing long-term stability and code-compliant performance. As the Leading helical pile installer in CT, whether you’re a homeowner building in a flood zone or a commercial developer dealing with poor soil conditions, understanding the benefits and process of helical pile installation can help you make informed decisions about your foundation system.
What Are Helical Piles?
Helical piles are steel shafts with helical-shaped plates that are mechanically screwed into the ground. Once they reach a predetermined depth or torque, they serve as deep anchors that transfer structural loads to stable subsurface layers. They are commonly used in both residential and commercial foundation systems where traditional shallow footings may not provide adequate support.
Why Choose Helical Piles?
Helical piles offer several advantages over conventional footing systems, especially in coastal or unstable environments:
Immediate Load-Bearing Capacity: Unlike concrete footings that require curing time, helical piles provide support immediately after installation. This shortens construction timelines and eliminates delays.
Ideal for Tight or Sensitive Sites: Helical piles are installed using small, portable equipment that creates minimal disturbance—ideal for properties with restricted access, existing structures, or sensitive landscaping.
Code-Compliant for Flood Zones: In flood-prone areas, such as along the Connecticut and Rhode Island shoreline, helical piles meet FEMA guidelines for elevated structures and reduce the risk of future settlement.
High Uplift and Lateral Resistance: These systems provide excellent resistance to both vertical and lateral forces, making them a preferred option for projects affected by wind, water, and frost.
Common Uses for Helical Pile Systems
At K.E. Braza Construction, we install helical piles for a wide range of structural applications, including new home foundations, foundation additions and overbuilds, decks, porches, and patios, underpinning and repair of settling foundations, modular home foundations, and structural elevation or flood zone compliance.
The Helical Pile Installation Process
Every project begins with a thorough site evaluation to determine soil conditions and structural load requirements. Our installation process includes:
Soil Evaluation and Project Planning: We review geotechnical conditions and determine the number, depth, and capacity of each pile required for your project.
Pile Installation: Using hydraulic equipment, piles are rotated into the ground to the required depth and torque. This ensures they are anchored in load-bearing soil.
Verification and Testing: We measure torque during installation to confirm capacity and, if necessary, perform load testing for compliance.
Integration with Structural Elements: Pile caps and brackets are installed to connect the pile system with the foundation beams or structural footings.
Supporting Foundation Construction with Helical Piles
Helical piles are a key component in many of the foundation systems we build. For example, when adding a home addition or rebuilding a structure in a flood zone, traditional footings may not offer the necessary support. Helical piles provide a durable, low-impact alternative that integrates seamlessly into full foundation construction projects.
Why Work with K.E. Braza Construction?
With more than 25 years of shoreline construction experience, K.E. Braza is trusted by homeowners and builders throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island. We specialize in high-performance foundations, including those that meet FEMA regulations and local building codes for flood-prone or unstable soil areas. As a full-service contractor, we manage all phases of your project—from excavation and demolition to helical pile installation and concrete pouring—ensuring safety, performance, and peace of mind.
Additional Resources
Explore related content to help you better understand your foundation options:
Pros and Cons of Different Pile Foundations
Request a Consultation
If you're planning a construction project in a coastal or unstable soil area, helical piles may be the right solution. Contact K.E. Braza Construction today to schedule a site visit and learn how we can help you build a stronger foundation. Or call us at (860) 333-6783.