Helical Piers: A Safe and Cost Effective Foundation System for ADUs

What Are Helical Piers?

Helical piers, also known as helical piles or screw piles, are a deep foundation solution that provides strong and stable support for structures by anchoring into the soil with helical-shaped steel plates.

These piers are an excellent foundation option for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) due to their ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and minimal environmental impact.

Using helical piers instead of a concrete foundation wall is a viable option when you need a foundation solution that can be installed quickly and with minimal excavation, and is particularly effective in unstable soil conditions, as helical piers screw into the ground to reach deep, stable soil layers, making them ideal for situations where traditional concrete foundations might not be suitable due to poor soil quality or the need to minimize disruption to the existing site.

Key Advantaged of Helical Piers Over Concrete Foundations

For homeowners looking to build an ADU, helical piers offer a fast, durable, and cost-efficient foundation solution. Their adaptability to different site conditions and minimal impact on the surrounding environment make them an ideal choice, ensuring a strong and stable foundation for any ADU project.

Faster Installation

Helical piers do not require extensive excavation and can be installed quickly, often within a single day using hydraulic equipment, reducing construction time compared to traditional concrete foundations.

In addition, since they do not require curing time like concrete, the ADU construction can proceed immediately after installation.

Minimal Site Disruption

The installation process is non invasive, requiring no extensive excavation. This makes them ideal for ADUs in backyards or other tight spaces where access for heavy machinery is limited.

Helical piers also reduce soil disturbance, preserving landscaping and minimizing site restoration costs.

Versatility & Adaptability

Helical piers can be designed to work in a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy, rocky or clay soils, and areas with expansive, weak or Full Widtherosion-prone soils where conventional foundations may struggle.

Their load-bearing capacity can be adjusted by selecting the appropriate size, depth and helix design for the specific site conditions.

Lifting Capability

Helical piers can even be used to stabilize structures that have already been built. In cases of foundation settlement, helical piers can be used to lift a structure back to its original position.

Cost Effective

While an individual helical pier might be more expensive than a concrete footing, by eliminating the need for large-scale excavation and concrete work and by reducing the installation time, helical piers can lower overall foundation costs in most scenarios.

Additionally, their durability and resistance to settling reduce long-term maintenance expenses.

Environmentally Friendly

Helical piers produce minimal waste and do not require large amounts of water or concrete, making them a sustainable choice for ADU foundations. Contrary to concrete, helical piers are non-toxic. They can also be removed and reused if necessary, reducing environmental impact.

If your property is located within wetlands, the use of helical piers may expedite the permit approval process for your ADU.

Why Choose Us?

Why Choose Contemporary Tiny Homes to Build Your ADU?

Clear Communication: We keep you informed every step of the way.
Expert Guidance: From design to permits, we simplify the process for you.

High-Quality Craftsmanship: We build ADUs that stand the test of time.

What are the financing options available for building an ADU

Options include home equity loans, construction loans, cash-out refinancing, and personal loans. Take a look at our financing options.

Can I build a Tiny Home / ADU / In-Law Suite in my backyard?

Yes, as long as your property complies with zoning and setback regulations. We can help you to find out whether we are able to build an ADU on your backyard.

If I decide to, can you build my ADU with a concrete foundation instead of helical piers?

Yes, it's your home and we can build it just the way you want it, as long as it is compliant with all health and building regulations.

Are helical piers as safe as a concrete foundation?

Yes! In fact, helical piers is the recommended option for certain soil conditions where concrete foundations may struggle. In addition, we'll know exactly the maximum load that your helical piers will be able to support, as this is measured exactly during the installation; with concrete, all we know is an estimation of the load capacity as informed by the concrete manufacturer.

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What We Offer

The Contemporary Tiny Homes Difference

Our expert team specializes in garage ADU designs that seamlessly integrate with your home. From initial feasibility reports to construction and finishing touches, we manage every step of the process. Our designs ensure your garage ADU is functional, energy-efficient, and tailored to meet your needs.