Installing
piles in the ground is a key stage of construction, determining the reliability
of the foundation. However, many people ask questions: how to drive a pile into
the ground, how to screw it in yourself, and what to do if it doesn't go in
properly? Let's take a look at how it works and what tools to use.
How do piles work in the ground?
A pile is
the base of a pile foundation, transferring the load from the building to the
dense soil layers. A strong foundation is only possible when the pile is
installed at the correct depth and securely anchored.
Types of
piles depending on the installation method:
1.
Driven piles. Installed using hammers or pile
drivers.
2.
Screw piles. Screwed into the ground like
screws.
3.
Bored piles. Created by drilling and pouring
concrete.
In this
article, we will focus on screw piles and their installation yourself.
How to Drive a Pile into the Ground: Tools and
Approaches
For Driven
Piles:
Driving
piles requires specialized equipment. The primary tool is a pile driver or a
pile hammer, which installs the pile using impacts. This method is suitable for
massive structures and industrial facilities.
For Screw
Piles:
With screw
piles, everything is simpler. They are not driven, but screwed in. Here are the
main a helical pile equipment for the job:
•
Manual pile driver. Suitable for lightweight
structures.
•
Automatic pile driver. Used for areas with hard
soil.
•
Pipe levers. A budget-friendly solution if
specialized equipment is not available.
How are piles driven into the ground?
Driving
screw piles is a process in which the pile is driven into the ground using
spiral blades. The blades grip the soil and secure the pile at the desired
depth. This ensures the stability and reliability of the foundation.
Step-by-step
pile driving process:
1.
Mark the site. Determine the pile installation
locations, maintaining the distance between them.
2.
Prepare the soil. Remove any rocks or debris
that could interfere with the installation.
3.
Install the pile driver. Attach the tool to the
pile and secure it.
4.
Drive in. Gently rotate the pile, ensuring it is
vertical. Use a spirit level to check.
5.
Secure. When the pile reaches the desired depth,
remove the tool and check its position.
Tip: If the
ground is too hard, you can first flood the installation site with water to
soften the soil.
How to drive piles into the ground yourself?
Driving
piles yourself takes time and attention, but it is entirely possible. This is
especially true for lightweight structures like gazebos, fences, and small houses.
Steps for DIY installation:
1.
Gather all necessary supplies: screw piles,
level, pile driver, or pipes.
2.
Dig a small hole. This will help ensure the pile
is correctly positioned at the starting point.
3.
Begin screwing the pile in by hand. Use levers
to increase the torque.
4.
Check the verticality. Check the level with each
turn to avoid tilting.
5.
Tighten the pile until it stops. It should
penetrate a firm layer of soil.
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