Techno Metal Post Central New York is one of the latest (and youngest) dynamic teams to join Techno Metal Post. Ryan Suwek and Travis Eberley – who have known each other since 6th grade – have teamed-up to create Techno Metal Post Central New York and recently spent a week training with us in Thetford Mines.

At only 22 years old, Ryan has already been in the construction industry for almost 10 years. He graduated with a college degree in Construction Management where he studied both commercial and residential construction. Two years ago, he started his own company. Ryan also has a close connection to Quebec: his father is from Montreal and had a long hockey career here as well as in the US.

Ryan’s great love is also hockey and he played junior ‘AAA’ hockey with the Syracuse Stars, and then went on to the US National development program. Unfortunately, a serious knee injury ended that dream, so he turned his career trajectory to his other passion: construction, building his career and business, and now venturing into the world of Techno Metal Post “has filled the void,” he says.

After high school, Travis Eberley headed south to work as a landscaper in southwest Florida. After a year and a half in the sun, he returned to New York and worked as a commercial roofer for a year. A background in landscaping and roofing, Travis also gained experience in carpentry working summer jobs in high school. And since teaming up with Ryan this past year, Travis says his buddy has taught him a great deal about construction.

In their spare time, Ryan and Travis do some woodworking on the side. Though, as a young entrepreneur, Ryan says he has very little spare time left. Travis likes to enjoy the outdoors, snowboarding in the Adirondack mountains, snowmobiling, and hunting. However, he says now that he and Ryan are opening up Techno Metal Post Central New York, “I’ll be joining the same (time) boat as Ryan.”

Although Ryan had learned about helical piers in college and had read about them in construction journals, he had yet to discover Techno Metal Post helical piers. He and Travis were introduced to them when they were hired to build a 1000 sq. ft deck in the Old Forge area. It was their biggest project, to date. The client had asked for a helical pier foundation system, and the piers were being installed by Paul Ritz of Techno Metal Post Adirondack. Ryan knew Paul and when he and Travis arrived on site, they were very happy and relieved that they “wouldn’t have to be digging holes!” Having built their deck on Paul’s Techno Metal Post helical piers, Ryan and Travis were hooked. After this experience, they decided they wanted to go into business together and establish a Techno Metal Post dealership in their own region, Central New York.

Ryan and Travis had a great week of training with us, saying it was very “thorough and interesting.” They appreciated covering all the multiple aspects of a Techno Metal Post dealership: “We learned so much about the products, marketing, and technical aspects of the business.” The guys were also very impressed with the depth of the engineering presentation. When it came time to do the installation training, Ryan said, “Max would not let us put a post in the ground unless it was 100% plumb. We learned to take pride in the fact that it’s not how fast you install the post, it’s the quality of the install.” At the end of the week, both Ryan and Travis expressed their appreciation of being so “welcomed in as a part of the Techno Metal Post family.” They now plan to grow their business “as well as grow our reputation built on a quality installation of a quality product.”

Bracket with screw sets

The pile cap, otherwise known as the plate (fixed or adjustable) sits directly on the shaft below it.  The 4 set screws will be bolted and tightened, with a minimum of 15 ft-lb of torque using a hexagonal key.  For the adjustable cap, a fifth screw needs to be installed, to prevent lateral movement of the threaded rod.

Bracket with self-drilling screws

A sleeve is attached to the shaft of the pile using self-drilling screws (a minimum of two or three screws is required, see below).  Techno Metal Post recommends using the following product or equivalent:

• UCAN (model TRH 12114K5) self-drilling screws (or any equivalent brand);
• Size 12-24;
• Length 1.25” (32 mm);
• Drill point #5 in galvanized steel.

The allowable uplift resistance varied (lb) between the pile cap and the pile during the laboratory test.

Please note that for deck piles and building additions, we recommend using a minimum of 2 self-drilling screws.  For piles supporting a structure with a roof and no floor (carport, pergola, etc.), we recommend using a minimum of 3 self-drilling screws.  The connection of the supported infrastructure may limit the uplifting force.

The use of an adjustable pile cap must be avoided for free-standing structures with a roof (carport, pergola, etc) given the presence, of greater lateral and uplift loads.

Stephen Angus has recently joined Techno Metal Post by creating Techno Metal Cambridge! Well… to tell the truth, Stephen was already a Techno Metal post Certified Installer and, a few months ago, he decided to create his own business dedicated to the helical pile. His new dealership is based on his knowledge and experience in the construction industry. Stephen will be supported by his wife Lauren, who will assist him with the various business communications with their customers.

Caring for our planet is a priority for Techno Metal Post.  Just as durability and security are important, protecting and preserving the environment is always front and center for us as well.  Helical pier foundations have a very small impact on the environment, unlike concrete which leaves a large footprint.  With no excavation required, our metal posts are installed in a simple, effortless, and clean way without disruption to the surrounding area.

Techno Metal Post’s proprietary machinery and installation process, ensures flora and fauna remain protected all the while preserving wildlife habitats and ecosystems alike.  Our specialized and versatile installation equipment, runs on biofuel and produces minimal noise, with no vibration.

The machinery can also easily access many different terrain types, in turn creating little impact on the environment.

Techno Metal Post’s certified installers are conscious of and trained to respect every aspect of the ecosystem. Whether it be a forest, meadow, waterfront, or your backyard, our installers make every effort to protect and preserve the surrounding area and its inhabitants.

Techno Metal Post places the environment at the forefront of their projects.  Honoring and respecting the natural world with leading-edge technology and a network of experienced installers worldwide.

Techno Metal Post is very aware the 21st Century can be characterized by a shift towards less traditional choices, ways, and products.  Be it in the way we buy and source food, our mode of transportation, rethinking our energy sources, or shopping online.  Just as people are making informed decisions about how they consume or spend their time, they are also making informed choices about housing.  The reasons are as varied as the individuals are: environmental, space availability, up-keep, down-sizing, expensive cost of real estate, aging population, multi-generational families, etc.  A wide variety of alternative housing, reflect these values in growing numbers.  Whatever the reason, whatever the space, Techno Metal Post is answering those trends, meeting those needs, and reflecting those values.

Whatever housing you choose, it is only as strong and durable as the foundation it is built on.  Techno Metal Post is the ideal foundation alternative for any dwelling.  With Techno Metal Post helical piers, your home (regardless of style or size) can be solid, strong, and secure...and will stand the test of time.

Techno Metal Post helical piers can be quickly and effortlessly installed, thanks to our specialized machinery, trained professionals and certified installers.  With our foundation pier system, usually there is NO need for excavation NOR concrete.  The cost of time and labour are significantly reduced as there is no digging, no dirt hauling, or need to protect dug-out holes from rain.  Other points to consider are: No waiting on an inspector, no mixing/pouring of concrete, and no cure time.  The beauty of a Techno Metal Post foundation comes down to this- The piers are installed in only a few days, which allows you to start securely building your infrastructure.

Alternative Housing Options and Techno Metal Post

The most common and traditional way of building homes is “Site-built” (or “Stick-built”).  These dwellings are completely constructed on-site, on permanent foundations, using Techno Metal Post helical piers.  Certified and proven to be durable, our piers are designed, engineered, and tested to the highest standards, ensuring they can withstand the relevant loads and conditions present.

Many people are now looking towards alternatives to the traditional Site-built home.  A growing market is in alternative housing, namely by using “Off site” building systems.

Modular Home

Increasing in popularity is the “Modular Home”.  Built indoors in a controlled factory setting, it is usually transported to a final location, where it's assembled on-site upon a permanent foundation.  With Techno Metal Post helical piers, the foundation is effortlessly installed, and you can be guaranteed a strong, stable, and durable structure for years, even on the most challenging terrains.  The piers are usually installed within a few days (sometimes in less than one day) so you can begin assembling your home immediately.  We also make sure the installation complies with municipal regulations and adheres to strict quality standards.

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Another popular alternative dwelling space, especially on the west coast of North America, is the “Accessory Dwelling Unit” (ADU).  Built on a foundation, an ADU is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot.  ADU’s can be attached or adjacent to the primary house; are significantly smaller than the primary house; and must be of the same architectural style as the primary house.  We can install piers close to existing structures, pools, gardens, and decks, without disruption to the property or landscape.  Hard to reach areas on your lot are easily accessible, thanks to our compact installation machinery.

Tiny House

A growing trend is the well admired “Tiny House”.  In many circles, Tiny House typically refers to a small home or trailer with wheels and axles that can be moved from one location to another.  While there is great debate as to what does or doesn't constitute a Tiny House, the 2017 International Code Council’s (ICC) official definition doesn't limit it to wheels, and can therefore include a foundation. (Note: A Tiny House is not an ADU).  Techno Metal Post's helical piers, provide a stable foundation for your tiny house, throughout the seasons. During frost/thaw cycles, our exclusive green sleeve ensures that the pier remains securely in place, preventing any movement..  Our installation process is effective, quick, reliable and has a low footprint due to our specialized and compact machinery.  And as with Manufactured Homes, the piers can be removed and relocated.

Studio Shed

Prefab backyard “Studio Sheds” are another housing inclusion that is on the rise.  Though they can be used for storage, these sheds are not the usual 4x4 that stores your lawnmower.  Smaller than an ADU, these sheds are tiny modern studios.  They are often aesthetically designed for living, home offices, creative spaces, or a quiet place to retreat and relax.  A Techno Metal Post helical pier foundation is the perfect solution for these flexible backyard dwelling spaces.  The prefab shed, and foundation, can be easily moved around a property thanks to the simple installation and removal process of our helical piers.  And because the process is very environmentally friendly, we can even install the piers for your studio shed around trees without any harm.

Shipping Container Home

“Shipping Container Homes” are also becoming more and more popular.  Inexpensive and low maintenance, they are a housing alternative which is gaining ground.  These 20 to 40-foot steel containers are being transformed into a vast and creative range of dwelling spaces – from simple, comfortable homes to modern, high-end housing.  On a metal post foundation, shipping container homes can be easily and securely anchored almost anywhere.  Our piers are designed, engineered, and tested to support heavy loads in various soil conditions.  And our compact installation machinery can access some of the most difficult terrains, without disruption to your property.

Manufactured Home

One of the earlier – and still-popular – alternative dwelling options is the “Manufactured Home”, commonly known as a “Mobile Home” prior to 1976.  Manufactured Homes typically do not have a permanent foundation and are essentially characterized by the absence of a basement.  However, once transported to their location the body/framework can be placed on a foundation.  A Techno Metal Post foundation will provide a long-lasting, strong and stable base for Manufactured Homes.  Solid and secure, our piers are guaranteed to prevent all movement, especially during frost/thaw cycles, or in cases of drought for clay soil.  And should you decide to move, we can remove the piers and relocate them to your new lot.

Techno Metal Post: Supporting Your Choices

From the ground up, guarantee your dwelling's foundation with Techno Metal Post. With our quality helical piers, our innovative technology, and our skilled engineers, you can rest assured your home – whatever housing you choose – will remain strong, stable, and secure for years to come.  Protect your home and your investment.  People are making informed choices today.  Techno Metal Post is one of them.

Tim Durham is the newest dealer to join our Techno Metal Post family, establishing TMP Chester Springs (Chester County and Delaware County) in Pennsylvania. Tim has been a landscape designer and handyman for the past 35 years, and as someone who cares deeply for his customers, he has developed a very loyal clientele. “When a customer is happy, I’m happy; I can sleep at night.”

Tim shares a home with his wife Christine, their daughter Skyler (17), son JT (15), and Tim’s eldest son Jason (25). Jason, who is passionate about cars and currently works as a mechanic for BMW, will be helping his dad as Tim sets up TMP Chester Springs. Tim said what enjoys most is spending time with his family and working hard at what he loves: “I love to create. I love challenges and meeting new people. I love finishing projects beyond expectations.”

Tim found out about Techno Metal Post through his brother-in-law, Rick Caramanica of TMP Boylston in Massachusetts. He said Rick has been encouraging him to become a Techno Metal Post dealer for a while. Tim finally decided to take the leap and recently spent some time with Rick, learning more about TMP, and “getting my hands wet”. He said, “Landscaping is very stressful and physical. Techno Metal Post is also very physical but I have the machinery.” And looking down the road at his investment and hard work, Tim said, “I can also bring my sons into this business and leave them something when I retire.”

Tim and Jason spent the week training with us. Both said the experience was great and that “lots of questions were answered.” Tim said he especially appreciated the hands-on training. “I loved the chance to physically touch and do. The better you get, the more efficient you become – like landscaping and handywork.” Jason said, “It was great to see how complex and impressive the product is, and yet is easy to learn to use.” Both Tim and Jason talked about how welcomed they felt and the camaraderie they observed: “The thing I noticed in this place is that nobody is above anyone else. Everyone is smiling, laughing, telling jokes and still getting the job done. As soon as we walked in the door, we felt part of the family.”

As Tim embarks on this new chapter, he knows a big part of his job will be to educate people about TMP helical piers. “I’ve seen the building industry for years, and this technology is incredible. It solves so many problems. It’s also environmentally friendly, which is so important now.” He is also excited that he still gets to create and be of service to clients. “With landscape design, I created things people can enjoy for 10, 20, 50, 100 years. An addition to a house can do the same: enjoyment for customers. So, let’s see how we can make this grow!”

Techno Metal Post is very pleased to welcome the newest member into the TMP family: Artur Toczek of TMP Polska. Artur is the first TMP dealer in Poland, joining our growing dealer network and helping expand our market in the European Union.

Artur, a dad of two girls, has been a designer and builder for many years and has a long and solid background in construction. His father and grandfather were both builders, and Artur said he is the “last generation” to have attended a handcraft school in Poland which offered practical professional programs to students.  His skills, talent, and passion for building and design took him to Sweden where he lived and worked for 10 years buying, remodeling, rebuilding, and redesigning old homes, barns, and farmhouses.  Six years ago, after establishing his own company and a very successful career, he decided it was time to return home to Poland.

Artur said he first discovered Techno Metal Post at the Ecobuild trade show in London, on March 6, 2018.  He was attending the show with his own building and design company, looking for new technology, materials, and ideas when he came across Guy Edney of Techno Metal Post U.K. South. Artur expressed his strong interest in bringing TMP technology to Poland, and the rest is history!

Trained and certified at our head office center in Canada, Mr. Toczek  join a growing international network of over 150 experienced and skilled dealers worldwide. We wish TMP Polska much happiness and success!

Techno Metal Post is very happy to welcome Allen Arnold and Carissa Stewart, his fiancé, into the Techno Metal Post family. Together, they will be heading up Techno Metal Post Western Twin Tiers.

A veteran of the US military, Allen has several careers under his belt. He has worked in construction and was a logger for many years before becoming a security guard at the local college. As a security guard, his work eventually led him to more safety training and courses in CPR. This experience piqued his interest into continuing further in the field of health and safety. He and a friend and colleague considered becoming paramedics but decided to pursue nursing instead. His friend dropped out and Allen stayed on, becoming an emergency room nurse, a career he continues to enjoy. He says it is now time for a different chapter and to begin building his own business.

Carissa works as a Patient Access Rep at the same hospital as Allen. As they embark on this new Techno Metal Post adventure together, Carissa will help Allen look after the administration and marketing of their dealership (and maybe even install a pier or two!).

One episode of Holmes and Holmes on HGTV, where they were installing Techno Metal Post helical piers for a deck, was enough to hook Allen. Seeing the technology, he immediately realized, “it was a no-brainer!” and began looking for a Techno Metal Post dealer to install piers for his wrap-around porch. While on the Techno Metal Post website, he noticed the “become a dealer” button at the bottom of the page. He read further and realized he wanted to become a dealer. Carissa said Allen has wanted to have his own business for some time, and now a unique opportunity was presenting itself. Allen said he considered waiting another year before embarking on the venture but with Carissa’s encouragement, they took the leap now. Allen said, “If I start something, I finish it. I am not a quitter.” He decided to seize the moment. “I didn’t want to miss an opportunity that might not come around again…I didn’t want to see some other guy driving around my neighbourhood in a Techno Metal Post truck.”

Allen and Carissa said their week with us was “amazing!” They enjoyed the training and felt it was very thorough. Both completed all parts of the training, including the welding portion. Carissa says she wants to learn and do as much as possible so that she can answer clients’ questions. There was also a “Techno Metal Post First”: Allen managed to break Max’s sledgehammer during the sledgehammer test. There was lots of laughter, as well as many questions while they were here. Allen and Carissa were really taken with “with how happy everyone is.” And Allen was impressed with the fact that all our piers and equipment are made right here at our Techno Metal Post base in Thetford Mines. “It shows real commitment to this company.”

Allen and Carissa will continue working in their respective fields, as they get Techno Metal Post Western Twin Tiers off the ground. Allen said his first order of business as a new dealer is to install the piers for his own porch. “It’s the best advertising! And I won’t cover the piers either. Let everyone see that I use the product.” Some final reflections before heading back home, Allen said “I am nervous, but no longer afraid.” He knows he has been well-trained and will be well-supported in this new adventure.

Techno Metal Post would like to introduce another member to the Techno Metal Post community: Dan Kelly is our new dealer for Techno Metal Post Ottawa. Originally from south western Ontario, Dan grew up on a farm and spent his early years working summers, weekends, and holidays in his uncle’s construction company. An electrical engineer by training, Dan put himself through college and university building custom homes. After university, he went to work as an engineer at Honda Canada Manufacturing doing complex problem analysis and new model design. After three years he said he “needed to learn the real world” and wanted his own business. In 2008, he moved to Ottawa with his family and returned to the field of construction. He apprenticed at Hickory Dickory Decks and eventually bought the franchise.

Dan is married with 2 children: a 9-year-old son who loves to play hockey, and a 12-year-old daughter who is a dancer. Dan says, “working is my hobby”, and if he is not doing that, he is at the ice rink with his son.

While working at Hickory Dickory Decks, Dan discovered Techno Metal Post helical piers, as the company used them for their deck projects. Impressed with what he saw, he said he knew he wanted to be part of Techno Metal Post. When he learned the Techno Metal Post Ottawa dealer, Richard Turpin, was retiring, he inquired about buying the Ottawa dealership and now, here he is.

Dan describes his week of training with us as “very exciting!” and is impressed with the people he met. He said, “everyone is super nice and friendly. Any questions I’ve had have been answered immediately. Everyone is very knowledgeable.”

Dan says his plans and objectives at this point are very basic: “We’re already installing piers, and the plan is to keep putting piers in the ground.” He is especially looking forward to “the joy of physical labour and getting my hands dirty. I am so excited to start this new business; it’s finally becoming a reality. It’s been a long negotiation process to this point, so it’s finally nice to be here.”