FAQ

The bearing load that a pile may carry is determined by what type of soil in which it is installed. The more dense the soil, the higher the load bearing capacity will be. It is during installation that this capacity is determined. While screwing in the last few inches of the pile, the installer validates hydraulic pressure, with the help of a pressure gauge located on the excavator arm. He then can determine, thanks to a precise guide chart, the load bearing capacity of the pile. In loose soil it is possible that extensions may be necessary to reach a more compact soil, and desired capacity.

Generally we recommend that the distance between each pile not exceed eight (8’) to ten (10’) feet.

Postech Piles are an affordable solution to your foundation questions. It is, however, difficult to determine an exact cost since several factors must be taken into account: The structure to be supported, type of soil, length, region, etc. Contact a specialist in your area for more details.

Our piles are, unfortunately, not equipped with a drilling head . However, in the overwhelming majority of cases, the installer will be able to deviate around the rock, to allow the pile to continue its descent. If the rock is really too large, and that construction parameters allow, the pile may be installed at another location. In the case where the pile must be installed in a very precise location, excavation may become necessary, but these cases are rare.

Generally yes. Postech has developed a method allowing to anchor the pile to rock.

Yes, it is possible to install the piles under an existing structure. However, the proposed location of the piles must be relatively close to the edge of the structure. If the piles must be installed in the middle of a structure, there must be an access to allow the piles to be installed. For example, in the case of a wood patio, the customer may remove some floorboards to allow installation of the piles in a precise location.

Yes.. It is very important to leave sufficient space between the soil and the structure (including trellises, stairs, etc.), to allow for heaving of the soil due to frost. If the structure is in contact with the soil, then the pile’s usefulness is limited, because the frost will make the soil heave and move (raise) the structure.

Absolutely not. The frost has no hold on the galvanized steel shaft. It is the base of the pile (blade) which acts as an anchor, and which prevents the pile moving with the frost heave. It is for this reason that the pile must be installed in such a manner so that the blade is BELOW the frost line. Postech has, in fact, developed a process which prevents cold air from moving down the inside of the shaft. See section THERMAL PILES for more details.

No. All Postech Piles are hot-dipped galvanized according to standard CAN/CSA G164, therefore 610 g/m3.

Absolutely. Postech piles have been tested using many required and vigorous industry standards (see section The Pile/Technical information) and are approved by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC #13102-R). This organism is responsible for the evaluation and acceptation of all products that are recognized as construction materials in Canada. What this means is that Postech Piles meet high quality standards. For your protection it is very important to use piles that have been tested and approved by the CCMC. In fact most local and state governments, as well as insurance companies demand it.

Yes, it’s possible. A hole, however, must be made in the location where the pile will be installed. Afterwards, a slight touch up of the asphalt around the pile is needed.

No, Postech Piles must be installed by certified installers. All of which have received a complete training seminar, and have all the qualifications required to best counsel you with your projects.

There are many advantages in using Postech Piles rather than concrete post foundations (sonotubes). Consult section Why choose Postech piles for more details.

What’s important is that you know if there are certain installations buried on your property at the locations where you wish to have augered piles installed, (water main, electrical cables, sewer, gas main, or all other underground installations). If you do not know what installations are buried on your property, it will be difficult for our installers to know. Please check with your local (town or city) municipal government for location of underground installations.

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