How Do Screw Piles Work for Foundation Stability?

When building or repairing a foundation, stability is everything. Screw piles (also called helical piles) are an engineered foundation solution that provides exceptional stability for homes and structures in challenging soil conditions. At Down Force Piling, we specialize in screw pile installations that prevent settling, heaving, and structural damage—saving homeowners costly repairs down the road.

This guide explains how screw piles work, why they outperform traditional foundations, and when they’re the best choice for your project.

How Do Screw Piles Work - Stabilize Foundations

1. Deep Anchoring for Lasting Support

Screw piles are torqued deep into the ground, reaching stable soil layers below the frost line (typically 10-20 feet deep in Calgary). This prevents:

• Frost heave (shifting caused by freezing/thawing cycles)

• Settling (sinking due to weak surface soils)

• Uneven movement (which leads to cracks in walls/floors)

2. Immediate Load Transfer

Unlike concrete that needs weeks to cure, screw piles:

• Provide instant stability—you can build the same day

• Are load-tested during installation to verify capacity

• Distribute weight evenly through helical bearing plates

3. Adjustable for Problem Areas

If your home already has foundation issues, screw piles can:

• Lift and level settled sections

• Stop further movement by transferring loads to stable soil

• Prevent future repairs with a 50+ year lifespan

When to Choose Screw Piles

Ideal For:

✔ Homes on clay, sand, or uneven terrain

✔ Foundation repairs (stopping cracks/settling)

✔ Additions & decks needing fast installation

✔ Areas with high water tables or frost risk

Not Ideal For:

✖ Projects requiring basements (traditional footings may be better)

✖ Extremely rocky sites without pre-drilling

Why Calgary Homes Need Screw Piles

Calgary’s expansive clay soils and deep frost line make screw piles the smart choice for:

• New builds (avoid future settling)

• Older homes (stabilize existing issues)

• Outdoor structures (decks, garages, pergolas)