In this informative article, we've compiled six of our most frequently asked questions and provided summarized answers to better assist you. We feel these concise Q&A’s will help to clarify and address your key questions, while offering some insight into Techno Metal Post's services. Essentially, before starting any project, it’s important to consult your local installer in order to discuss your needs and obtain more information.

Let’s dive in…

Q1. Why use a helical pile foundation instead of concrete?

Using helical piles will save you time and money, since they don’t require any excavation, concrete pouring and curing time or site repairs. Also, ensuring the stability of your project will help prevent future expenses that may result from probable soil movement.

More details can be found in the following article: Helical Piles vs. Concrete Piers

Q2. Is it possible to install helical piles in rocky soil conditions?

Our installation equipment can screw piles through soil containing small to moderate sized rocks. In the case of shallow bedrock, the installer will propose a specialized anchoring system.

The following article provides the details: Solutions for Dealing with Rocks During Installation.

Q3. How much do helical piles cost?

It is important to know the type of project the piles will be used for. For example, the cost of piles for a deck foundation will be different from those used in a house extension or for supporting the structure of a cottage.

Several criteria determine the cost, and we have listed a few below:

• Types of loads needing support
• Length of the piles
• Helix dimensions

Q4. What is the maximum load that a pile can support?

The maximum load a Techno Metal Post helical pile can support depends on 2 factors:

• The pile tubing diameter and strength
• The depth to reach the adequate soil bearing capacity

Example: For a deck construction using a Techno Metal Post P2 pile with a 2.4" diameter, the maximum load-bearing capacity of each pile can be up to 11,000 lbs. This alone can support an elephant weighing more than 8,800 lbs.

Q5. How many helical piles are required for a deck?

This depends on the size of the deck- the rule of thumb in any project is to maintain a spacing of 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) between the piles.

Also, if the deck were attached to a house, it would require fewer piles since the existing structure would take on a portion of the load.

Q6. How do I choose the right pile caps for my deck?

People often ask how to build a deck on a helical pile foundation. We have several support options available for your project, including:

Adjustable pile caps: The height can be easily adjusted during the deck-building process.

Fixed pile caps: This option is only suitable for projects with predetermined heights.

U-shaped plates: Allows the beam to be inserted and then screwed from the side.

Square plates: Offers more working freedom.

We hope these brief explanations provided you with a good starting point and clearer understanding of our products. For more in-depth information, we invite you to explore our complete FAQ and Articles page.

In this article, we explore the different types of applications that are possible with helical piles and how they can simplify your life. Demonstrating their versatility and numerous advantages, they are the go-to choice for homeowners and contractors alike. If you’re searching for a reliable and alternative foundation solution, Techno Metal Post supports your projects with their helical pile foundations!

Our helical piles are commonly used as a foundation solution for homes, cottages, and the increasingly popular modular or prefab home. Like all houses, prefab structures also require a solid and stable foundation and one way to achieve this is to build directly on helical piles. We deliver precise installation even on sloped terrain and the piles are adaptive to most soil conditions so you can feel safe that your home is properly supported. Looking for peace of mind? They are certified, guaranteed, and tested to meet the highest standards, ensuring your modular home remains stable and secure. It is easy to obtain building permits when using our product because they are Code Compliant and accepted by Building Departments. Overall, they’re a great alternative to traditional concrete foundations, which normally require soil removal, curing time, and an inspection before you proceed with your project. Because no excavation is required and they are simple and quick to install, you can complete your project in no time!

As for decks and stairs, they are among the most common projects in the residential sector and can be built as single or multiple-level structures on our piles. Whether decks come with or without a roof, they still call for a sturdy base, and this is especially true if they support heavy objects such as a hot tub. No matter their size or frame material, choosing a durable foundation to support your project is essential.

Are you building a house addition or designing a sunroom? Yet again, helical piles are an ideal choice as an alternative foundation for homeowners who are looking to expand their indoor living space. They withstand the heaviest loads, and the toughest soil conditions, no matter the size of your project.

Along with those mentioned above, our piles have also become increasingly popular as a foundation solution for sheds, whether they are used for storage or designed as a small living space. It is worth mentioning that in a near future, if you ever needed to displace the shed to install a pool, the piles can be easily removed and relocated. When it comes to carports, it's important to remember that these structures can be vulnerable to uplift forces caused by strong winds and storms. Choosing to install Techno Metal Post helical piles will maintain the stability of your structure. Our piles are guaranteed to remain solid and durable, ensuring year-round stability, no matter the climate conditions.

Our specialized installation equipment can easily access and maneuver in tight and restricted areas. This convenience is a huge advantage because there’s no limit to where it can operate, and it won’t hinder a project’s advancement. Another important benefit is it simplifies the job completion in little time, without site disruption or damage to the surrounding environment. These points alone can help save money and frustration from potential landscape repairs.

Despite potential ground movements, Techno Metal Post’s helical piles remain in place, thanks to our exclusive green sleeve. It slides vertically along the pile, preventing it from heaving in colder climates that encounter ‘frost and thaw’ cycles.

To see the versatility of our helical piles in action, the 3D animation below visually demonstrates the development of a residential project incorporating all the types of applications mentioned above, while highlighting their unique advantages. And don't forget that Techno Metal Post is the foundation solution for all your projects, from a clothesline to a 5-story building!

Michel Gratton, a new customer of Techno Metal Post, shares his positive experience with building his front porch and home addition on our helical piles.

When he built his house three years ago, and the time came to add the front porch and back addition, he knew he didn’t want a concrete foundation or concrete piers as their support. That’s when he reached out to his friend Paulo, a construction expert, for advice on a solid and durable foundation solution.

Paulo immediately suggested Techno Metal Post’s helical pile foundation. He explained how they were a strong, quick and aesthetic alternative to support his structures, so Michel immediately contacted an installer. He told us, “The professionals came with their installation equipment and within four hours, had installed seven piles total for the front and back of the house. Four piles went to support the back addition, while the other three piles supported our front porch. The piles have an impressive load capacity, so I know for sure nothing will budge.” This ensured Michel of their solidity and durability for his project and he was convinced he made the right choice by opting for TMP’s helical piles. He added, “It wasn't a question of price, but of choice and quality. The job was really well done, and we are truly happy with the results!”

Michel’s testimonial highlights some advantages of using our helical piles for different types of projects in a solid and aesthetically pleasing manner. An ideal foundation solution for those looking for an alternative to traditional concrete piers.

We thank Michel for sharing his story with us and helping others who might need to make an informed decision…

To get a free quote for your project or for more information, please reach out to your local installer.

At Techno Metal Post, engineering precision and structural integrity are top priorities—especially in the connection of components. Techno Metal Post uses fully welded shaft couplings with its helical piles. Why is this, and what key difference/advantage does this type of coupling have?

Short answer: because they are stronger than bolted couplings. Please read on for more details-

The buckling of columns is a concern in structural engineering. Imagine pressing down on a yardstick or slender rod with your hand, which initially carries some load. Then, at a certain point, the slender column will deform sideways near the middle of its height and become unstable. This failure mode is called buckling.

Helical piles are slender columns in the ground. Usually, the ground will prevent buckling by laterally bracing the shaft throughout its length; however, this is not always the case. Occasionally, helical foundation shafts extend above ground, pass through water, or are installed in fluid or very soft soil. Sometimes the fluid soil zone can be well below the ground surface, and whenever the shaft is not fully braced by soil, buckling should be considered. This is one reason why a fully welded shaft is better than a bolted shaft.

Bolted couplings will have some slack, or freedom to move laterally and cannot be manufactured perfectly snug or tight. Bolt holes are larger than the bolt diameter to promote easier installation, and coupling sleeves are also oversized for the same reason. This manufactured slack in the couplings must be accounted for in the buckling design. Fully welded couplings, which do not have any slack, are stiffer and stronger than bolted couplings. These features are appreciated by engineers and building officials alike.

What about weld inspection? Yes, it’s true that building codes do recommend that welds be inspected. This is also true for bolted connections. One key point is that Techno Metal Post's coupling welds are proof-tested for strength during installation.

The stress placed on the weld during installation is greater than the stress the weld will see once the structure is built. Techno Metal Post's evaluation report IAPMO ER 481 even says so.

IAPMO ER 481 Section 3.2.1

This section of IAPMO ER 481 has been successfully used to show building officials why weld inspections are not needed. If the weld is strong enough to twist the pile into the ground, it will be strong enough to resist the load it was installed to.

What about weld corrosion? In the case of bare steel, weld strength calculations take into account a sacrificial corrosion thickness, in the same way as for the pile shaft. If the shaft is hot-dipped galvanized, this galvanized coating adjacent to the bare steel weld will protect the weld. This works similarly to Techno Metal Post’s sacrificial anodes that are applied to bare steel shafts. When using a galvanized steel pile, it is recommended to apply a coating of zinc-rich paint to the weld before you twist it into the ground, as an added precaution.

As always, reach out to the engineering team if you have any questions.

Techno Metal Post’s helical piles are recognized as a versatile and sustainable foundation solution for a wide range of construction projects. Our foundation system plays an especially important role in nature conservation and preservation efforts alike. These include projects in restricted or remote areas such as parks, protected areas, or even as simple as backyards! The ability to maneuver around plants and existing structures makes them an ideal choice for projects aimed at preserving the natural environment, while still meeting construction goals.

Recently, a residential deck project showcased the benefits of using helical piles in a nature preservation initiative. The homeowner wanted to expand their living space and build a deck off their patio door; however, there was a 60-year-old tree growing in that very spot. Therefore, they decided to build the deck around the tree in order to preserve it. Instead of using traditional construction methods, they opted for helical piles to minimize environmental impact.

This eliminated the need for digging, pouring, site disturbance, and added weight around the large root system. The advantage of using helical piles for this project was that the installation process avoided damaging the tree's roots and nearby vegetation. In the video below, we see how the installer maneuvers around a large root to properly install his pile.

The specialized and compact installation equipment maintained noise to a minimum, which is always appreciated in a residential neighborhood! What’s more, the homeowner was pleased to know that her deck would remain stable during winter, thanks to the green sleeve that glides along the piles, preventing them from heaving during freeze/thaw periods.

The final result was an aesthetic deck that not only displayed the tree's beauty but also highlighted sustainable construction practices. Should there be any need for future maintenance, it will be easy with a helical pile system in place. In addition, during construction, sufficient space was left between the wooden structure and the tree to allow for potential growth.

This project illustrates a perfect example of why helical piles are an excellent choice for nature-focused projects. Their versatility makes them a perfect solution for projects that prioritize the preservation of natural spaces.

At Techno Metal Post, we are proud to have an exceptional and dedicated team of engineers, who play a crucial role in supporting our network of dealers, their customers and other professionals.

Our engineering teams in Canada, the United States and Europe are specifically and fully trained in all aspects of our products, whether for residential, commercial or industrial projects. All our engineers ensure that all our certifications are up to date and in compliance with the requirements and regulations of the various markets. They also oversee that every new dealer receives training to obtain an installer's certificate. The certification confirms that the installers understand and master the basic parameters of Techno Metal Post design and installation.

The Engineering Department's primary task is to provide technical support to Techno Metal Post's entire dealer network.  Essentially, when needed, dealers can provide their project plan to the engineering team for review, to then receive proper information and recommendations to draw up a suitable work proposal.

For smaller projects such as decks or extensions, our engineers have created technical documents that installers can refer to before and during installation.  These documents help to ensure that all installed piles have adequate load-bearing capacity, thereby ensuring their stability.

As for commercial projects, a closer collaboration with our engineering department is usually required to ensure that the technical aspects are properly addressed. If necessary, our engineers can also visit the site to validate the bearing capacity of the piles and carry out loading tests using their specialized equipment.

We asked Valérie Groleau, an engineer working for our Canadian division, to explain what her day-to-day work process looks like.  She explains, "Part of the service we provide involves analyzing plans and then providing recommendations on the load-bearing capacity for our piles, ensuring that they are validated and comply with requirements.  We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service to our dealers, their customers, and industry professionals."

She added, "For commercial projects, we work mainly with engineering firms in order to showcase our products and propose innovative solutions. For each project, we also provide all the information required for the design and installation of the piles in order to obtain the consultant's approval."

The engineering department's commitment to customer service and technical expertise is what really sets them apart from the rest. Techno Metal Post prides itself on always being available to its customers, offering direct contact and rapid responses. Techno Metal Post's engineering department is unique and essential to anyone who does business with them.

One of the most frequently asked questions we get on social media is how to deal with rocks during a helical pile installation. The answer, of course, depends on the size and location of the rock as well as the specific circumstances of the project. In this article, we look at the different methods and solutions that Techno Metal Post uses to ensure a successful outcome.

In the case of small to medium-sized rocks, our specialized installation equipment is powerful enough to maneuver around them, allowing the pile to be installed. As the pile screws into the soil, the helix naturally displaces these rocks. Generally, if the installer comes across only a few small, shallow rocks that are manageable, digging by hand is also another option for removal. When faced with very rocky land, our installers can use a specialized pile, which has already been approved by our engineering team, to bypass rock obstructions.

When the rocks are too large to be pushed or manually removed, alternative solutions are required. One such option is to install the pile right next to the rock, provided that it doesn’t deviate from the designated line and doesn't interfere with the project plans. Such relocation is always done following the approval of the project designer. However, if a large rock or boulder is obstructing the desired location and can’t be moved, it may be necessary to bring in a small excavator to remove it.

Depending on the location, certain sites are composed mainly of bedrock. If the bedrock is deep enough, it can serve as a footing, provided that the helix is below the frost line. If the bedrock is shallow or even exposed, a specialized anchoring system could be used. This approach ensures that the installation remains secure and stable.

Whether it's pushing small rocks, working around large rocks, or anchoring directly to bedrock, installation professionals always find a solution to ensure a successful project.

We decided to explore a topic that doesn't get much attention yet deserves merit for its participation in the helical pile world. In this article we help our readers better understand TMP’s specialized installation equipment, and give them a look into how things got started.

From the start, Techno Metal Post has boasted a dedicated team of mechanical engineers, who to this day, continues to oversee the company's advancement. Together, they developed a line of cutting-edge equipment, created exclusively for the installation of helical pile foundations. In total, four models were created, each designed for different project requirements. They are: R2D, ET1, EM1 & EM2.

Before we comment on their features, let’s review their humble beginnings. We spoke to Étienne St-Laurent, a mechanical engineer who is now the company's Director of Operations and Finance, to discuss his involvement in the development of Techno Metal Post's installation equipment.

He told us that the creation of the R2D dates back to 2001. Before that, pile installation was achieved using a hitched trailer equipped with a boom and gearbox. Limited accessibility became an issue, motivating Clément Binet, co-founder of Techno Metal Post, to collaborate with a sub-contractor and create the first R2D machine. The goal was to create a machine that could access very restricted areas and, more specifically, fit through a 30" door frame. Later, Étienne collaborated to enhance the R2D, making it faster and more efficient. His main role, however, was developing the ET1, a large-scale machine, designed to meet specific load-bearing capacity requirements of over 20 tons per pile.

Over time in France, the R2D eventually proved too small for certain jobs needing a larger, more robust machine. The ET1, in contrast, was oversized and the demand for it was limited. After returning from his trip to France, Clément then designed the EM1 as an intermediate alternative tailored to suit the French market. In time, the EM1 was developed in 2010. This machine is the result of combined effort between Étienne and Maxime Binet, a mechanical engineering technician who remains involved in research and development to this day. An optimized, more efficient version of this machine, the EM2, was launched in 2018, thanks to its many improvements.

We also spoke with Éric Laplante, Mechanical Production Manager, about some key points regarding the installation equipment. He showed us around the facility as he pointed out the machines. Here is what he had to say:

Eric: “All mechanical and electrical components are designed and manufactured here, in Thetford Mines, Québec. Hydraulics, engine, and body are assembled here and made by us as well. The only part we source externally is the bottom section, specifically the traction system.”

“How long does assembly take?”

Eric: “It takes about one month to manufacture one EM2 or R2D. Overall, we can produce up to twelve EM2s and twelve R2Ds per year, depending on the demand.”

Eric added, “The hydraulic system is what screws the pile into the ground. Also, an important fact is, machines can be fitted with 2 different hydraulic motors- a faster one offering lower torque, and a slower one capable of generating higher torque. So, it really depends on the project requirements.”

He pointed to the main head piece attached to the arm and said, “See where the 2 hoses connect at the top? The fork at the end of the boom holds a gearbox equipped with these interchangeable motors which are connected with that 2-hose system. There are 4 bolts in the lower portion that can be unscrewed so that the motor can be lifted out and replaced by another. The gearbox stays in place, and the installer needs to change only the motor. This process is quick and easy and can be completed directly on site. It’s worth mentioning that only the R2D operates with gas/fuel, while the others are all diesel.”

“How are the machines operated?”

Eric: “All machines are equipped with wireless remotes. They turn, move forward and backward through a remote-control box, that’s been designed specifically by our team. The R2D, however, also has a manual control option for forward and reverse. We can also offer a wired remote with the same functionalities.”

“Can you tell us about the bio-hydraulic oil that’s used? I thought that was very interesting.”

Eric: “Well, we use bio-hydraulic oil for hydraulic functions and mineral motor oil for diesel or gas engines. The engine drives a pump which generates the hydraulic pressure required to operate the various parts of the machine."

Now that we have a better picture of how the machines work, lets review the advantages they provide for both the installer and customer-

• Compact, the smallest being able to manoeuvre through tight spaces.
• Powerful, including the smallest machine model.
• Can access difficult terrain without site disruption.
• Requires no excavation or concrete.
• An environmentally conscious and cleaner method.

Visit our Installation Equipment page for more details on each machine.

In this article, we would like to highlight the advantages of using helical piles as a foundation solution for structures near or in water. When it comes to building structures near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, or coastlines, traditional concrete foundations can pose significant challenges due to a probable high-water table or the need for shoring and water pumping. However, helical piles offer a revolutionary alternative that provides numerous benefits.

Helical piles offer several advantages when it comes to building or repairing structures such as houses, cabins, docks, boathouses, boardwalks, and retaining walls near or in water. One major advantage is the ease of installation. Techno Metal Post's installation equipment allows the piles to be installed near or in water, with minimal impact. This means that the construction process is swift and efficient, without the need for extensive excavation, dewatering, or site damage/disruption.

A high-water table is a common challenge faced when building near water. Traditional concrete foundations often require extensive dewatering, which can be time-consuming and costly. Not to mention, the damage they might undergo through environmental conditions, is inevitable.

Helical piles, on the other hand, can be installed without the need for dewatering. They are screwed directly into the ground, without excavating or removing soil, minimizing the impact of the water table on the construction process. This not only saves time and money but also reduces any environmental repercussions.

Another advantage of using helical piles near or in water is their exceptional stability. They help ensure the long-term durability and safety of the structure, giving you peace of mind knowing that your investment is built on a solid foundation.

One significant advantage of helical piles near or in water is their resistance to corrosion. They are offered with a hot-dipped galvanized coating, which acts as a protective barrier against the corrosive effects of water and moisture. This coating enhances the durability and longevity of the piles, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environmental conditions associated with bodies of water.

Furthermore, helical piles are an environmentally friendly choice. Their installation process requires minimal disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem, as it does not involve heavy and loud machinery and/or excavation. This makes them an ideal option for projects that aim to minimize their impact on aquatic habitats while preserving the natural beauty of the area.

However, it is important to mention that the installation of Techno Metal Posts is not recommended in lakes that undergo periods of deep freeze, which eventually leads to ice accumulation. The movement from this ice, thereafter, can cause damage to the piles and the structure.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about helical piles and their applications, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to assist you with your foundation needs.

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