Question 1

What areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

We cover areas up to 75 minutes from our Warana warehouse – think Northern Brisbane to Noosa!

Question 2

How is load capacity achieved?

Accepted Answer

By measuring installation torque in real time, ensuring each pile meets engineered load needs.

Question 3

How many screw piles will I need?

Accepted Answer

That depends on soil conditions and load requirements. Generally your engineer will determine this and we are happy to discuss or provide them with any documentation they may require.

Question 4

Are screw piles environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. They cause minimal soil disturbance, preserve roots and trees, and leave a smaller footprint than traditional concrete foundations.

Question 5

What is the load-bearing capacity of screw piles?

Accepted Answer

The load capacity of screw piles depends on factors such as soil conditions, pile dimensions, and installation depth. Typically, screw piles can support loads ranging from a few kilonewtons (kN) to several hundred kN. The capacity is often confirmed during installation by measuring the torque required to drive the pile into the ground, ensuring it meets the specific load requirements of the project.

Question 6

Can screw piles be installed in various soil types?

Accepted Answer

Yes, screw piles are versatile and can be installed in a wide range of soil conditions, including clay, sand, silt, and even areas with high water tables. The design and installation process can be adjusted based on the specific soil characteristics to ensure optimal performance.

Question 7

How is the load capacity of a screw pile determined?

Accepted Answer

The load-bearing capacity is assessed during installation by measuring the torque required to drive the pile into the ground. This real-time feedback ensures that each pile meets the specific load requirements of the project.

Question 8

How do I know how many screw piles I need?

Accepted Answer

The size of screw piles depends on your site’s soil conditions and load requirements. The amount of screw piles will be determined by your engineer. If you’re unsure, we can help assess and quote based on your specs or drawings.

Question 9

Are screw piles suitable for both residential and commercial projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, screw piles are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, from small residential decks and house extensions to large commercial buildings.

Question 10

Are screw piles environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Screw piles are considered environmentally friendly because they produce minimal soil disturbance, are super-friendly around roots and trees, and for temporary structures, they can be removed and reused, leaving a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional concrete foundations.

Question 11

How long does it take to install screw piles?

Accepted Answer

Installation is fast – typically 10 to 30 minutes per pile, depending on the pile size and length, soil conditions and access. Most residential jobs are completed in a day, while larger commercial sites may take several days. Once installed, piles are ready for immediate load-bearing – no curing or delays.

Question 12

What equipment is used for installation?

Accepted Answer

We use hydraulic augers mounted on excavators to drive piles into the ground. We have an 8 tonne excavator so we can do almost any job.

Question 13

Can screw piles be installed in all weather conditions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, screw piles can be installed year-round, including during wet or cold weather. Unlike concrete foundations, they don’t require dry conditions or curing time, minimising weather-related delays.

Question 14

Do screw piles need to comply with Australian Standards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Screw piles must adhere to AS/NZS 1170.0-2002, AS/NZS 1170.1-2002, AS 2870-2011, AS 2159:2009 – Piling Design and Installation, which outlines the requirements for the design, installation, and testing of piling systems. Additionally, compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) is mandatory to ensure structural integrity and safety. These standards ensure that screw piles are suitable for the specific soil conditions and load requirements of each project.

Question 15

What documentation is required for screw pile installations?

Accepted Answer

For compliance, the following documents are typically required: Installation Logs Geotechnical Report Engineering Certification Working drawings

Question 16

Do you install Galvanised Screw piles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can have any of our screw piles Hot Dipped galvanised and installed.

Question 17

Do you leave any of the off-cut piles?

Accepted Answer

No, we remove these and send them to the scrap yard and keep your site nice and tidy.

What Are Screw Piles and How Do They Work?

What Are Screw Piles and How Do They Work?