Commercial properties, especially those of several storeys, exert a substantial amount of pressure into the ground. Therefore, it is not uncommon for commercial properties to eventually need foundation repair services to restore the integrity of the structural base. One of the typical methods employed for foundation repair in these scenarios is commercial underpinning. With the proper expertise and technical know-how, the underpinning can lift your commercial property's foundation, which stabilises it for the long term. The main component employed for commercial underpinning is piers, and the piers chosen for your structure will depend on the extent of the foundation damage. The following article looks at the different types of piers employed for commercial underpinning.

Adjustable foundations repairs via push piers

If your commercial property's foundation is settling at an uneven rate and does not need an overhaul of the entire structure, then you could opt for push piers. The push piers are considered a flexible solution since they are employed to remedy specific foundation problems rather than address the entire base. The push piers can also be installed either at the exterior or at the interior of the base of your building, depending on the primary requirements of the foundation repairs. Each pier is driven into the foundation individually until your foundation contractors achieve their desired lift for the building.

Stabilising foundation repairs via helical piers

If your foundation is not completely shot but requires additional stability to mitigate the settlement, then helical piers will be an ideal solution to your foundation problems. Unlike their push pier counterparts that are merely pushed into the soil, helical piers are screwed into the ground. Thus, the foundation receives the support it needs without the risk of further destabilisation. Helical piers are also a favoured option because they can be installed in any weather. Furthermore, the load of your building is immediately transferred when the helical piers are installed, as you do not have to wait for cement curing, as with poured concrete piers.

Deep driven foundation repairs via resistance piers

As implied by the name, this underpinning technique is performed by driving the piers deep into the ground to remedy the foundation settlement. Resistance piers are one of the most robust options that you could choose, making them perfect for structures that are suffering from settlement due to soil erosion. Resistance piers are also customised for your specific building since these piers are load tested prior to being employed for your foundation repairs.