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.