At Atlas Piers, we go beyond installing deep foundations, we validate their performance. Our commercial load testing services confirm the strength and stability of helical piers and other foundation systems, meeting code requirements and engineering specifications with precision.

With decades of experience in commercial construction, we bring proven expertise to every project, whether it’s a new commercial build, structural retrofit, or industrial foundation. Our team delivers accurate, on-site load test results backed by the equipment, training, and engineering insight contractors trust.

Load testing being conducted at Jacksonville Post Office showing reaction frame

Why Load Testing Matters in Commercial Foundation Projects

In high-stakes commercial construction, structural integrity can’t be assumed, it must be verified. Load testing provides critical data to confirm that your deep foundation system will perform as designed under real-world conditions.

Atlas Piers conducts load testing for projects where:

  • Structural engineers require confirmed load-bearing capacity
  • Soil or site conditions are variable, uncertain, or undocumented
  • Code, municipal, or institutional standards mandate third-party verification
  • Heavy structural loads demand tested safety margins for deep foundations

We perform this essential testing with speed, accuracy, and complete documentation—helping keep your project compliant, efficient, and on schedule.

Our Load Testing Methods for Deep Foundation Systems

Atlas Piers performs both compression and tension load testing on helical piers and other deep foundation elements, using industry-approved standards and advanced instrumentation.

Load Testing Methods:

  • Calibrated Instrumentation: Hydraulic centerload rams, gauges, hoses, pumps, and reaction frames
  • Standards Followed: ASTM D-1143-81, ASTM D-3689

We record real-time data during each test to document capacity and displacement, and we provide clear, engineer-ready reports that support your structural documentation.

Load Testing Types:

  • Axial Compression Load Testing
  • Lateral Testing
  • Axial Tension/Uplift Testing

Calibrated Instrumentation Used:

  • Hydraulic centerload rams
  • Gauges
  • Hoses
  • Pumps
  • Reaction frames

Standards We Follow:

  • ASTM D-1143-81
  • ASTM D-3689
lateral load test being conducted by Atlas Piers

Our team captures live data throughout testing to measure capacity and displacement. Afterward, we deliver detailed, engineer-ready reports that help validate structural performance and ensure compliance.

Record-Breaking Performance: The Strongest Helical Pier Load Test in U.S. History

graph showing the load testing results of the Jacksonville helical pier load maxing out at above 400,000 average load pounds at 10,000 PSI (starting at under 50,000 lbs at 500 PSI)

At Atlas Piers, we don’t just talk about performance—we make history with it. During a project for the Jacksonville Post Office, our team conducted a load test that reached an unprecedented 396,000 pounds on a single helical pier. This set the record for the highest load-tested capacity of any helical pier in the United States. The pier didn’t fail—the test stopped only because we reached the hydraulic jack’s maximum limit. It’s a powerful demonstration of the strength, reliability, and engineering expertise that Atlas Piers brings to every commercial foundation project.

Why Commercial Contractors Choose Atlas Piers for Foundation and Load Testing

When your commercial foundation needs to be done right the first time, Atlas Piers delivers. Our clients count on us for expert installation, in-house load testing, and unmatched attention to structural detail.

Deep Commercial Experience
With decades of work on multi-story buildings, warehouse retrofits, and industrial sites, we understand the pressure points of large-scale construction, and we deliver with precision and professionalism.

Foundation-Only Specialists
We focus exclusively on foundation systems. That means we’re experts in soil interaction, pier performance, load paths, and structural reliability, not generalists juggling multiple scopes.

Big Results, No Big-Contractor Pricing
Our lean crews and low-overhead model give you high-level expertise without inflated cost. We provide real value on every job, without sacrificing quality or schedule.

In-House Load Testing Without the Hassle
Don’t juggle subcontractors. Atlas Piers performs load testing as part of our service, arriving fully equipped to verify capacity and streamline your project timeline.

Partner with a Deep Foundation Expert for Commercial Construction

Atlas Piers brings the tools, talent, and technical expertise to handle even the most demanding commercial foundation projects, load testing included. We work closely with structural engineers, developers, and general contractors to ensure that every foundation system is properly installed, thoroughly tested, and built to last.

Let’s discuss your next commercial foundation or load testing project. Contact us today.