Changes in moisture levels could cause the soil beneath parts of your property’s foundation to expand or contract. When this happens, the base could shift out of place and cause walls to crack and additional damage. When deciding what support materials will work best for foundation repair, steel piers should top the list of possibilities. Below is a look at underpinnings used to repair foundations and why steel piers are the best choice.  

What Materials Are Commonly Used for Foundation Repair?

Due to their load-bearing capabilities, concrete piers and pilings are often used for foundation repair of heavy structures. Concrete piers are relatively inexpensive when compared to other materials, which also adds to their popularity. Although using the material will cut down on foundation repair costs, concrete is not best for all locations. If the soil is shallow, concrete piers can reinforce the foundation for soil depths of 12 feet. Using augers, drilled concrete piers can reach a depth of 15 feet to support the foundation.  

Why Choose Steel Piers Over Alternatives? 

When compared to concrete alternatives, steel piers can be installed deeper in the soil for foundation repair. Steel pilings are drilled into the earth until they hit the load-bearing soil. Hydraulic mechanisms then shift the weight of the foundation onto the bearings. The steel piers can be pushed up to 75 feet into the soil until bedrock is reached. Because steel piers can reach greater depths than concrete alternatives, they aren’t as vulnerable to shifting and additional issues due to fluctuations in soil moisture.  

For help deciding what type of piers to use for your foundation repairs, look to the professionals at The Dwyer Company, with locations in Lexington and Louisville, KY, and West Chester, OH, for advice. For a free service estimate at the Lexington location, call (859) 231-0998, connect with the Louisville branch at (502) 489-5438, and call (513) 777-0998 to reach the West Chester office. Friendly representatives will provide quotes and let you know what to expect during the appointment. You can also visit the foundation and concrete repair experts online to read feedback from past clients, and follow them on Facebook to learn more about their repair techniques.