Reinforcing Large-Scale Structures With Foundation Piers

Published on 09 Apr, 2025. - by: Wayne Farris

Structural stability is the foundation of success, literally and figuratively, for any large-scale construction project. Nowhere is this truer than in Georgia, a state that presents unique challenges due to its diverse soil types and climate conditions. For contractors, structural engineers, and commercial developers, the stakes couldn’t be higher when it comes to ensuring lasting stability for commercial buildings.

Fortunately, foundation piers offer a proven solution to reinforce and stabilize structures, preventing costly future repairs while ensuring safety. Atlas Piers, a trusted name in foundation solutions, provides advanced piering methods to address the most common foundation challenges.

This blog will explore why foundation stability is critical, the role of foundation piers, and their wide-ranging applications in commercial projects across Georgia.

Common Causes of Foundation Issues in Georgia

Georgia’s unique geology is both a marvel and a challenge. The state features diverse soil types, ranging from clay-heavy soils to sandy loams. However, clay-rich soils are a frequent culprit behind foundation problems. During wet conditions, clay expands, while in dry periods, it contracts significantly. This fluctuation destabilizes the soil, leading to foundation shifting, cracking, or settling.

Additionally, hydrostatic pressure from heavy rainfall can push against foundation walls, causing cracks or water infiltration. Similarly, drought conditions can shrink soil, creating voids that leave foundations unsupported.

Signs of Foundation Failure

Taking early action can help you avoid costly foundation issues. Without proper care, you might start seeing warning signs like:

  • Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings (especially diagonal or spreading foundation cracks)
  • Bowing or leaning walls
  • Uneven or sloping floors
  • Sticking doors or windows that don’t open or close properly

You can address potential problems early by staying proactive and keeping your foundation in good shape. If any of these signs appear, consult a foundation expert like Atlas Piers.

Commercial Building Foundation Piers

What Are Foundation Piers?

Foundation piers serve as stabilizing supports that are installed deep into the ground to anchor a building’s foundation to more stable soil layers or bedrock. They are a solution for both repairing sinking foundations and preventing foundation failure in new construction.

Types of Foundation Piers

Atlas Piers specializes in two primary types of commercial foundation piers:

  • Resistance Piers: These piers are installed using the building’s own weight to drive them into stable soil deep below the surface. They provide support by transferring the structure’s load to this stable layer, helping to stabilize and level the building as needed.
  • Helical Piers: Featuring screw-like threads, helical piers are twisted into the ground to provide support. Their design makes them ideal for lighter buildings or projects with tight installation spaces.

Benefits of Foundation Piers for Commercial Buildings

Installing commercial foundation piers offers several advantages:

  • Stabilizes shifting or sinking foundations.
  • Prevents extensive structural damage.
  • Provides cost-effective repair solutions that save money in the long run.
  • Ensures compliance with safety standards, reducing liability risks.

Helical Piers for Commercial Applications

Why Choose Helical Piers?

Helical piers are becoming a preferred choice for commercial projects due to their remarkable versatility and efficiency. Unlike traditional foundation methods, they offer several key advantages:

  • Minimal excavation requirements, making them ideal for confined spaces.
  • The ability to be installed in any weather, ensuring year-round usability.
  • Minimal vibrations during installation, reducing the risk of structural stress.
  • Immediate load-bearing capacity, helping to accelerate project timelines.

Applications of Helical Piers

Helical piers suit a wide range of commercial applications, including:

  • Foundation Repair: Stabilizing and leveling sinking foundations.
  • New Construction: Ensuring long-term support for buildings.
  • Tiebacks: Stabilizing retaining walls, supports, and bowing walls.
  • Boardwalk Construction: Providing support for elevated pathways over uneven terrain.
  • Helical Pull Down Micro Piles: Offering deep foundation support for structures requiring additional load-bearing capacity.
  • Foundation Underpinning: Strengthening and stabilizing existing foundations to ensure structural integrity and support additional loads.

Foundation Underpinning

What Is Foundation Underpinning?

Foundation underpinning involves strengthening and stabilizing an existing foundation by extending its support deeper into the ground. Often, this is achieved using foundation piers, which provide a stable, long-lasting solution to address damage or support new loads, such as an additional story. These piers ensure the foundation remains secure and durable over time.

The Underpinning Process

Atlas Piers employs industry-leading methods like steel push piers or helical piers for underpinning. These systems transfer the weight of your structure to stable soil or bedrock, ensuring long-term stability and preventing further damage.

Benefits of Foundation Underpinning

  • Reinforces structural integrity, extending the lifecycle of your building.
  • Mitigates the risk of future foundation failure.
  • Prevents costly repairs caused by escalating damage.
  • Improves safety for occupants and users of the building.

Choosing the Right Foundation Solution

Key Considerations

Selecting the right foundation solution involves several factors:

  • Type of Soil: Understanding the soil’s composition at your site is critical.
  • Building Load: The size and weight of your structure will influence the choice of piers.
  • Budget: While advanced solutions like helical piers may require a higher upfront investment, they can prove more cost-effective over time by minimizing the need for future repairs.
  • Project Timeline: Solutions with quicker installation, such as helical piers, minimize downtime.

Consult With Experts

Every foundation issue is unique, requiring tailored solutions. Consulting with structural engineers or foundation experts like Atlas Piers ensures the best solution for your specific project is chosen. Our team can evaluate soil conditions, structural needs, and feasibility to recommend a plan that meets your goals.

Build for Longevity With Atlas Piers

The stability of your commercial structure rests on its foundation. Foundation piering solutions not only address existing issues but also prevent future problems, safeguarding your investment and ensuring the safety of your building.

At Atlas Piers, we specialize in providing industry-leading commercial foundation repair and stabilization solutions tailored to Georgia’s unique soil conditions. Whether it’s through the installation of helical piers, steel push piers, or comprehensive underpinning services, our team of experts is here to deliver reliable and lasting results.

Want to learn more about how Atlas Piers can support your next commercial project? Contact us today for a consultation or to request a free quote.