Pier Foundation

Method
Assembly
Part
Prompt

How can we elevate structure above the ground?

Findings

Pier foundations—including helical piles, cast concrete, and driven steel piles or micropiles—are typically rapid, flexible, and low-impact. Helical piles, for example, can often be driven into place in a day. This completes the foundation phase quickly and allows framing to immediately follow. Pier foundations are spot footings that reduce the concrete (and carbon) from that used in a strip footing. Spot footings may be tactically placed to avoid obstacles, and this flexibility can drastically reduce the amount of site disturbance.

Parts used

Related building methods

Sunken Down

Digging below grade can be a challenging and intrusive way to build, so we rely on robust detailing.
Learn more

On Grade

Building on grade is a medium-intensity method that can be simple, but requires a flat building pad.
Learn more

Raised Up

A home elevated on piers is a very light touch on the site and can outperform other building methods.
Learn more