Steel Helical Piers for Deck Foundation vs Concrete: The Complete Guide

Building a deck requires a solid foundation choice. Your decision between steel helical piers and concrete footings affects your deck's stability, longevity, and installation timeline.

This guide breaks down both options to help you make the right choice for your project.

What Are Steel Helical Piers?

Steel helical piers are deep foundation systems with spiral-shaped steel plates welded to a central shaft. These piers screw into the ground like giant screws, transferring your deck's load to stable soil layers below.

Helical piers work by advancing through unstable surface soil until they reach load-bearing strata. The helical plates create uplift and compression resistance, providing exceptional stability even in challenging soil conditions.

These systems are commonly used for:

• Elevated decks and porches

• Foundation repair projects

• New construction on unstable soil

• Areas with high water tables

• Locations requiring minimal excavation

What Are Concrete Footings?

Concrete footings are traditional foundation elements created by digging holes, placing forms, and pouring concrete below the frost line. The concrete cures to create solid foundation points for your deck posts.

Traditional concrete installation involves:

• Excavating holes 2-3 feet deep

• Setting forms or using a sonotube

• Mixing and pouring concrete

• Waiting 24-48 hours for curing

• Installing post anchors

Concrete footings work best for:

• Small to medium-sized decks

• Stable soil conditions

• Areas with predictable frost lines

• Budget-conscious projects

• Traditional construction methods

Steel Helical Piers vs Concrete: Span Capacity 

Helical piers foundation systems excel in span capacity due to their deep foundation design. They can support larger loads and longer spans because they anchor into stable soil layers rather than relying on surface conditions.

Span considerations include:

• Helical piers can support spans up to 20+ feet between posts

• Concrete footings typically limit spans to 8-12 feet

• Soil conditions affect both options differently

• Load calculations vary based on foundation depth

Helical piers foundation repair projects often upgrade from concrete specifically to increase span capacity and reduce the number of support posts needed.

Advantages of Helical Deck Footings

 Helical pier foundations used in deck construction offer several advantages:

Strength and Stability:

• Deep foundation design reaches stable soil

• Superior resistance to frost heave

• Excellent performance in wet conditions

• Immediate load-bearing capacity

Installation Benefits:

• No concrete mixing or curing time

• Minimal excavation required

• Installation is possible in tight spaces

• Weather-independent installation

Deck builders choose helical systems when soil conditions are poor, installation speed matters, or when building elevated structures requiring exceptional stability.

DIY Helical Piers for Decks

DIY installation of helical piers is possible but requires specific equipment and expertise.

Required Tools:

• Hydraulic drive head or impact wrench

• Torque monitoring equipment

• Excavation tools

• Safety equipment

Limitations:

• Equipment rental costs can be significant

• Proper torque measurement is critical

• Soil analysis knowledge required

• Installation mistakes are costly to fix

Most homeowners find professional installation more cost-effective when factoring in equipment rental, time, and the risk of improper installation.

Finding Helical Deck Footings Near You

When searching for "helical deck footings near me," look for certified installers with:

Qualifications to Verify:

• Manufacturer certification

• Local licensing and insurance

• Experience with residential projects

• References from recent customers

Questions to Ask:

• What equipment do you use?

• How do you determine proper depth?

• What warranty do you provide?

• Can you provide soil analysis?

Professional installation ensures proper depth, torque specifications, and compliance with local building codes.

How to Install Helical Piers for a Deck? 

Basic Installation Steps:

1. Site Preparation

   • Mark pier locations

   • Call utility locating services

   • Clear installation areas

2. Installation Process

   • Position drive equipment

   • Begin pier advancement

   • Monitor torque readings

   • Advance to the required depth

3. Final Steps

   • Cut piers to the proper height

   • Install bracket systems

   • Verify load capacity

   • Complete deck framing connections

Common Mistakes:

• Insufficient torque monitoring

• Stopping at inadequate depth

• Improper bracket installation

• Skipping soil analysis

Professional installation eliminates these risks and ensures code compliance.

When to Choose Steel Helical Piers?

Choose helical piers foundation systems when you have:

Soil Conditions:

• Wet or marshy ground

• Unstable surface soil

• High water table

• Areas prone to frost heave

Project Requirements:

• Heavy or elevated deck designs

• Fast installation timeline

• Minimal site disturbance needed

• Long-term stability critical

Specific Situations:

• Replacement of failed concrete footings

• Additions to existing structures

• Decks over slopes or uneven terrain

• Areas with limited access for concrete trucks

When Concrete Footings Make Sense

Concrete footings remain the right choice for:

Project Characteristics:

• Small decks under 200 square feet

• Ground-level or low-height construction

• Stable, well-draining soil

• Traditional building methods are preferred

Budget Considerations:

• Lower upfront material costs

• DIY-friendly installation

• Standard building practices

• Readily available materials

Site Conditions:

• Easy excavation access

• Predictable soil conditions

• No drainage issues

• Adequate curing time available

Making Your Foundation Choice

Choose Helical Piers When:

• Soil conditions are challenging

• Installation speed is important

• Deck size or height is substantial

• Long-term performance is critical

• Professional installation is planned

Choose Concrete When:

• Budget is the primary concern

• Soil conditions are stable

• Deck size is modest

• Traditional methods are preferred

• DIY installation is planned

Both foundation types can provide excellent service when properly matched to project requirements. Consider your specific site conditions, budget, timeline, and performance expectations when making your decision.

The investment in the right foundation system pays dividends in deck performance, longevity, and peace of mind for years to come.

When it comes to reliable, long-lasting, and professionally executed helical pier installation, Tri-State Waterproofing stands out as the trusted choice. With expert technicians, high-quality materials, and a commitment to structural safety, they ensure your foundation receives the strongest support possible. Choosing Tri-State Waterproofing means choosing durability, precision, and peace of mind for years to come.

FAQ'S

1. Which is faster to install: helical piers or concrete footings?

Helical piers install in hours with no curing needed; concrete footings need 24-48 hours to cure after pouring.

2. Do helical piers work in wet or unstable soil?

Yes. Helical piers reach deep stable layers, working well in wet, marshy, or shifting soils where concrete may fail.

3. What’s the span difference between helical piers & concrete?

Helical piers can support up to 20+ ft between posts; concrete usually limits to 8–12 ft due to surface support.

4. Can I install helical piers myself?

DIY is possible but requires special equipment and expertise. Most homeowners save time and money using pros.

5. When should I choose concrete footings instead?

Concrete works best for small, ground-level decks, stable soil, budget projects, and if you want a DIY-friendly option.