Piling, commonly recognized as a pier, plays a groundbreaking role in laying the foundation for our homes, offices, and various other structures. Piling works seamlessly underground, without making itself visible on the surface, providing indispensable support, and sometimes, necessary lift to our homes. This blog post aims to give you a comprehensive understanding of piling, its significance, and its intricate methodology.
The term 'piling' springs from the Latin word 'pila,' meaning a pier or pillar. This analogy offers a perfect image of strength, support, and an unwavering foundation in our minds. Piling is a system of deep foundations, utilized to transfer loads from structures through weak soil layers down to firm strata at depth. It is focused on driving or processing piles, heavy bollards of wood, steel, or concrete, into the soil of the ground.
Piles are often associated with houses or structures at risk of subsidence or sinking. Piling can stabilize these buildings, reignite their stability, and sometimes, elevate the structure's position with a process known as 'piling lift.' A pile or groups of piles connected with robust pile caps serve as the unfaltering pillars that bear the structure's load, aptly transfer it to the ground, and reinforce the structural integrity of homes and buildings.
Piling can be sub-grouped into different categories based on the material used, its application, and the method of pile installation. The significant categories are end-bearing piles, friction piles, and combination piles. The choice of the pile category depends largely on the soil condition, the nature of the load to be borne and environmental factors.
End-bearing piles are a prominent type, which reaches a layer of strong soil or rock to provide support. They work on the principle that the bottom end of the pile rests on a hard layer of soil or rock, which distributes the load evenly. An excellent example would be bridge construction, which often extends deep into the river bed to find solid ground.
On the other hand, friction piles work on a different principle, which depends on the substantial amount of friction developed between the surrounding soil and the surface of the pile. This friction aids in carrying the load above. These are particularly useful for soil types that don't have a distinct hard layer.
A combination or compaction pile uses both methods for specialized situations and enhanced stability. Sometimes, the pile drill also uses grout (a dense fluid) injection for compaction of soil around the pile, improving the bearing capacity.
To provide the lift to homes, helical piles and resistance pier systems are commonly employed. These systems use hydraulic equipment to drive the pile into the foundation layers, after which they are attached beneath existing home's footings, gently raising the structure to its desired place.
Piling technology has significantly matured over the decades, allowing for better safety protocols and efficiency. Modern piling has become quieter, less vibratory, and more convenient. It has also become environment friendly with the use of recycled steel for piles.
In essence, piling is an unsung hero in construction, a fundamental process that keeps our homes and structures secure and stable. It connects our homes to the earth, providing a sturdy route for load transfer and offering the possibility of a much-needed lift. Whether visible or not, the role of piling is undoubtedly pivotal to the integrity and lifetime of our homes and structures.
