Foundation Repair Methods Compared: Pressed Pilings, Steel Piers & Helical Piers

No two foundations fail for the same reason. Soil type, moisture changes, home design, and settlement depth all play a role in how a home moves. That’s why there isn’t one universal repair method for every property in Dallas–Fort Worth. Different systems offer different levels of depth, strength, and precision. This guide explains how each method works, when it is recommended, and what to expect from each option.

Pressed Pilings

Overview

Pressed concrete pilings are one of the most common and proven foundation repair methods in North Texas. These concrete cylinders are hydraulically driven into the ground until they reach a point of resistance strong enough to support the home. Because they use the home’s weight to achieve depth, they provide a dependable and efficient option for many slab-on-grade structures.

When They Work Best

Pressed pilings are recommended for homes experiencing moderate settlement, especially in neighborhoods built on expansive clay. They are a strong fit when symptoms include diagonal brick cracks, interior drywall cracking, sticking doors, or mild floor slope. Their efficiency and cost-effectiveness make them a popular choice across Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Grand Prairie, and many surrounding suburbs.

Advantages

This method offers fast installation, minimal disruption, and strong performance when installed to proper depth. Pressed pilings are budget-friendly while still providing long-term stability when driven to true refusal and shimmed precisely.

Limitations

Pressed pilings may not be ideal for homes with very soft soil, fill dirt, extremely deep settlement, or unusually heavy structural loads. In those cases, steel piers or helical piers may deliver better results.

Steel Piers

Overview

Steel piers are one of the deepest and strongest foundation repair systems used in Dallas–Fort Worth. Made from interlocking steel sections, these piers can reach firm soil layers far below the active clay zone. Their depth and durability make them a great match for homes suffering from significant settlement or long-term structural movement.

When They Work Best

Steel piers are recommended for severe settlement, heavy two-story homes, older structures, or houses built on lots with elevation changes. If the home shows large brick gaps, noticeable floor slope, or wide settlement variations, steel piers often provide the most reliable long-term outcome.

Advantages

Steel piers consistently reach deeper, stronger soil layers than concrete systems. They are extremely stable, resistant to seasonal soil movement, and designed to support heavy loads. For homes needing maximum reinforcement, they are often the preferred option.

Limitations

Because steel piers reach deeper strata, they typically cost more than concrete pilings. For homes with mild or moderate settlement, they may be more robust than necessary.

Helical Piers

Overview

Helical piers are steel shafts with helical plates that rotate into the soil. They deliver precise, torque-measured installation, making them ideal for softer soils, crawl spaces, additions, porches, or areas where traditional driven systems may not be effective. Their design allows for immediate load-bearing capacity.

When They Work Best

Helical piers are recommended when soil conditions vary significantly across a property or when a structure is too light for pressed pilings or steel piers. They excel in fill dirt, moisture-heavy soils, crawl spaces with limited access, and lightweight home additions where precision is essential.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of helical piers is their predictable installation. Torque readings confirm when the pier reaches stable soil. They create very little vibration during installation and can be placed accurately in tight or sensitive areas.

Limitations

Helical piers may not be necessary for typical slab foundations built on firm clay. They are usually recommended for specific soil profiles rather than broad use across an entire home.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Pressed Pilings vs. Steel Piers

Pressed pilings are effective for moderate settlement and many slab homes, while steel piers offer deeper penetration and higher stability for severe settlement. Steel piers are the stronger long-term solution when the home requires maximum structural support.

Pressed Pilings vs. Helical Piers

Pressed pilings rely on the home’s weight for depth, whereas helical piers rely on torque. Helical piers are better for soft soils, crawl spaces, and lightweight structures. Pressed pilings work well for traditional slab homes built on expansive clay.

Steel Piers vs. Helical Piers

Steel piers are best for significant settlement, heavy homes, and deep soil issues. Helical piers are ideal for inconsistent soils, fill areas, or situations where precise placement is required.

How Brown Chooses the Right Method

Choosing the proper repair method requires careful evaluation of soil movement, elevations, structural symptoms, and the long-term behavior of the home. Brown Foundation Repair’s project planners rely on decades of local experience, soil understanding, and detailed assessment techniques to recommend the method that will deliver the best long-term stability for your specific situation.

Schedule a Free Evaluation

If you’re noticing settlement symptoms, foundation cracks, or uneven floors, our team can determine which repair method is best suited for your home. Contact Brown Foundation Repair to schedule a free, no-obligation evaluation.