The Difference between Pressed Pile and Bell-bottom Pier

Your home's base needs to be repaired, and you've just discovered this. You may be in the process of obtaining estimates or have yet to do so. You will believe that "foundation repair is foundation repair" and that "it's all the same; you just have to find someone to do it" for you. There are a few ways to fix a slab base by foundation repair companies. The drilled pier with an underream system and the pressed pile system are the two most common. The second is known as a bell-bottom pier system in fewer ‘engineering’ terms.

There are a few techniques for repairing slab foundations. The drilled pier with an underream system and the pressed pile system are the two most common. The second method is known as a bell-bottom pier system in less ‘engineering’ terms.

Even though we have a preference for such approaches, we understand that each home and homeowner has specific requirements, and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for all situations. We would never hesitate to refer you to another contractor if that is the right option for you.

In this article, we'll compare and contrast how each of these methods works in non-industry terms, as well as discuss their benefits and drawbacks. We'll also go over some scenarios and homeowner forms for which each system may be better suited.

You should be able to find an approach that appeals to your needs and will serve you best by the end of this delightful foundation repair tale.

What Do These Methods Have in Common?

Both the pressed pile and the bell-bottom pier approaches have certain fundamental similarities. To raise, level, and keep the home in place, both methods depend on a vertical support system in the earth. Engineers refer to this as "underpinning," and it involves the use of piles or piers to provide vertical support underneath the building.

Piers used for base repair are not the same as those used for fishing around bodies of water. These aren't the sort of piles consisting of dirty laundry that needs to be cleaned. Instead, imagine a beach house that is elevated above the ground on "stilts" to keep it safe from any incoming water.

Pressed Pile Method Overview

Luckily, once you know this approach, the name will make complete sense. The pressed pile construction is easy to recall because it sounds just like what it is.

Pressed Pile Construction A bunch of concrete cylinders are stacked on top of each other and pushed underground to form a pressed pile. Each cylinder measures 6" in diameter and 12" in height. Consider the wooden beads you strung together as a kid to make a necklace.

The cylinders are a common construction item that is delivered to your home ready to use. They're finished off with a pile cover, which is a pre-cast concrete piece with a larger surface area on top.

Bell-Bottom Pier Method Overview

The bell-bottom piers are made by hand on the site. A hole is made, and a straight shaft is drilled into ground. At the shaft bottom, a spinning tool creates a bell shape that cuts the earth and creates a wider space for a pier.

Now steel rebar is put into the shaft length for strength. Now the concrete is poured by hand in the location of the drilled hole and then covered by reinforced concrete tap. Once the piers are poured in, after waiting for seven to ten days it will be ready for fresh concrete.

Make an appointment with us at Ramjack by American Leveling for foundation repair and more in OKC.