Should I Use Helical Piles Instead of Concrete Footings for My Deck?

When planning a deck in Central Pennsylvania, most homeowners assume the only foundation option is traditional concrete footings.

However, in certain situations, helical piles can be a strong alternative.

Understanding when they make sense — and when they don’t — helps homeowners make informed structural decisions.

What Are Helical Piles?

Helical piles (sometimes called screw piles) are steel shafts with helical plates that are mechanically driven into the ground.

Instead of:

• Digging a hole

• Pouring concrete

• Waiting for curing

Helical piles are:

• Installed using hydraulic equipment

• Screwed into load-bearing soil

• Immediately ready to support weight

They function as deep foundation elements designed to resist settling and frost movement.

Why Would Someone Use Helical Piles for a Deck?

Helical piles are often used when traditional excavation presents challenges.

Common scenarios include:

1. Poor Soil Conditions

If soil is:

• Soft

• Wet

• Unstable

Helical piles can reach deeper, stronger bearing layers.

2. Limited Access

In tight backyards where:

• Large equipment cannot access

• Excavation is disruptive

Helical piles minimize digging and site disturbance.

3. High Water Tables

When groundwater is encountered during footing excavation, traditional concrete installation becomes more complicated.

Helical piles eliminate the need for open excavation and wet concrete placement.

4. Cold-Weather Installation

Unlike concrete, helical piles:

• Do not require curing time

• Are not temperature-dependent

• Can be installed year-round

This can be helpful in early spring or late fall conditions.

How Do Helical Piles Handle Frost Depth?

In Central Pennsylvania, frost depth requirements are approximately 42 inches.

Helical piles are installed well below frost penetration and anchored into stable soil layers. Because they are mechanically embedded deep into the ground, they resist frost heave effectively when properly designed.

Are Helical Piles Strong Enough for Decks?

Yes — when engineered and installed correctly.

They are used not only for decks but also for:

• Additions

• Porches

• Commercial structures

• Foundation repairs

Load capacity is determined by:

• Soil conditions

• Depth of installation

• Pile size and configuration

Proper installation includes torque monitoring to verify load-bearing capacity.

When Are Traditional Concrete Footings Still Ideal?

Concrete footings remain a strong and cost-effective solution when:

• Soil conditions are stable

• Access is straightforward

• Excavation is manageable

• Standard frost-depth compliance is achievable

In many typical residential deck applications in Central PA, concrete remains the most practical foundation method.

What Are the Downsides of Helical Piles?

Helical piles can:

• Cost more per footing than traditional concrete

• Require specialized equipment

• Require experienced installation

They are not automatically better — they are situationally appropriate.

Do Helical Piles Require Permits?

Yes.

Just like traditional footings, helical piles must:

• Meet local building code requirements

• Be approved by inspectors

• Be installed according to manufacturer and engineering standards

They are not a workaround to avoid inspection or frost-depth compliance.

Final Thoughts

Helical piles are a legitimate, engineered foundation solution — not a shortcut.

For homeowners in Selinsgrove, Shamokin Dam, Sunbury, Northumberland, Lewisburg, and Danville, they can be an excellent option when soil, access, or site conditions make traditional footings challenging.

The right foundation depends on:

• Soil conditions

• Deck design

• Access constraints

• Budget

• Long-term performance goals

A properly designed foundation — whether concrete or helical — determines how the deck performs for decades.