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What are the Pros and Cons of Steel Piers?

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In the realm of foundation repairs, particularly in Kansas City, steel piers are a predominant choice among various companies. Their popularity is attributed to their proven effectiveness and adaptability to different structural needs.

KC Pier, a leading provider in the region, emphasizes the use of push piers, a specific type of steel pier, in their structural and waterproofing solutions. This article explores the reasons behind the widespread use of steel piers in Kansas City and compares push piers with other types like bracketed and helical piers.

Steel Piers: The Common Choice in Kansas City

The choice of steel piers in Kansas City’s foundation repair landscape is influenced by their reliability and versatility. Each company may offer different types of steel piers, but the underlying principle of using robust and time-tested solutions remains constant.

How Push Piers Differ from Other Types

Push piers stand out due to their design which allows them to be concentrically loaded. This means the weight of the house directly rests on the pier, ensuring a more stable and direct support system. This is in contrast to other types like bracketed and helical piers, which have different load-bearing mechanisms.

Structural Integrity of Push Piers

The structural integrity of push piers is one of their most significant advantages. By bearing the load directly, they offer a more stable and long-lasting support system for the house. This direct support system is key to their effectiveness in foundation repair.

Comparing Push Piers with Bracketed and Helical Piers

Disadvantages of Bracketed and Helical Piers

Bracketed piers, which use a bracket system on the side of the house, can lead to angle issues and less stability over time. Helical piers, requiring digging and placement of the pier head on a bracket, also share similar disadvantages. Their indirect support mechanism can compromise long-term structural integrity.

The Engineering Behind Push Piers

KC Pier’s choice of push piers is backed by solid engineering principles. The piers are installed directly under the foundation, ensuring that the load is perfectly aligned with the support, which is not always the case with bracketed or helical piers.

Advantages of Push Piers in Foundation Repair

The Installation Process

Installing push piers is a detailed process, requiring digging underneath the foundation to place the pier directly. This method, while time-consuming, is crucial for achieving a stable and long-lasting support structure. The segments of the piers, usually about 20-24 inches, are pushed down until they reach a stable layer, like bedrock.

Long-Term Benefits and Warranty

Despite the higher upfront cost and installation time, push piers are a worthwhile investment. They come with a lifetime warranty, offering homeowners peace of mind. This long-term stability is a critical factor in choosing push piers for foundation repairs, especially in a lifetime home or one with significant structural demands.

Conclusion: The Superiority of KC Pier’s Steel Pier System

KC Pier’s methodology, focusing on steel push piers, offers a robust and enduring solution for foundation repairs. While alternatives like bracketed piers might appear cost-effective in the short term, they cannot match the long-term reliability and warranty assurance provided by push piers. This approach underlines KC Pier’s commitment to delivering sustainable and reliable solutions for homeowners in Kansas City.

For more information or to explore the best foundation repair options for your property, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Eric Scheele

Eric Scheele

Owner & CEO

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