Building a Pier on Screw Pile Foundations

Advantages and Disadvantages of Piers on Screw Pile Foundations

Advantages:

• Ease of Installation: Screw piles are easily installed in difficult soil conditions without the need for heavy equipment.

• Stability: The structure is resistant to fluctuating water levels and soil changes.

• Durability: With regular maintenance, the pier will last for many years.

• Environmental Impact: The piles do not disrupt the water body's ecosystem.

Disadvantages:

• Cost of Materials: The price of piles and other components can be quite high.

• Installation Quality Requirements: Incorrect installation of piles can lead to structural instability.

Required Materials and Tools for Construction

• Screw Piles: The foundation of the structure is selected based on the depth of the water body and the soil type.

• Wooden Beams: For creating the frame and decking.

• Metal Fasteners: Bolts, anchors, and brackets for securing structural elements.

• Tools: Shovels, hammers, level, drill, wrenches, and special tools for screwing in piles.

Pier Accessories

For proper and safe pier operation, it's important to include the following additional elements:

• Anti-corrosion coatings: All metal parts of the structure must be protected from corrosion.

• Railings: Installing railings will improve the safety of the pier.

• Floating elements: For structures that require flexibility with changing water levels, pontoons can be used.

Stages of Building a Pier on Screw Piles

You can build a pier yourself by following these step-by-step instructions:

1. Site Preparation

Before construction, you must prepare the site for installing the piles. To do this, you will need to:

• Level the area near the water body and remove any uneven surfaces.

• Cover the area with gravel or crushed stone to ensure a flat and stable surface.

2. Marking the Pile Locations

Mark the pile locations according to the pier design. To do this, use pegs and string to mark the line and locations for installing the piles. The distance between the piles must be uniform and in accordance with the design.

3. Installing the Pile(s)

Installing the screw piles is a key stage in pier construction. This requires:

• Screw the screw piles into the ground manually or using specialized equipment.

• Check the verticality of the piles using a spirit level.

• Screw the piles until they reach solid ground or a layer with high bearing capacity.

• Trim the piles to a uniform level using a grinder or hacksaw.

• Cover the pile caps with special caps to protect them from moisture and debris.

4. Installing the Grillage

The grillage supports the pier decking and connects the piles together. To install the grillage, you must:

• Assemble the grillage from a metal profile or timber.

• Secure the grillage to the piles with bolts.

5. Laying the Decking

The pier deck can be made of planks, decking, or other materials. To install the decking, you need to:

• Lay the decking on the foundation.

• Secure the decking with brackets and screws.

6. Installing Railings and Handrails

Railings and handrails are important for the convenience and safety of the pier. To install them, you need to:

• Install the railings and handrails using special fasteners.

7. Wood Protection

All wooden pier elements must be treated with a preservative and coated with paint or varnish to protect against moisture and insects.

Building a pier on screw piles is easy. Follow the instructions, and you will have a reliable and durable structure that will become a great place for leisure.