Why Design Builders Trusts This Modern Foundation Solution

When most homeowners think about building a deck or screened porch, they picture the finish—the composite decking, the stylish railings, the inviting furniture. But what lies beneath the surface matters just as much—if not more. That’s where helical piers come in.

At Design Builders, we pride ourselves on delivering not just beautiful outdoor spaces, but structures that are built to last. That’s why we rely on helical pier foundations for many of our elevated decks and porches. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, and why they’ve become one of the unsung heroes of high-end outdoor construction.

Helical piers, also known as screw piles, have an intriguing history that dates back to the early 1800s. The concept was pioneered by Alexander Mitchell, an Irish engineer who, despite being blind, revolutionized construction techniques. Mitchell initially used helical piers to stabilize lighthouses and docks in weak, marshy soils where traditional digging was impractical. Over the years, the use of helical piers waned but experienced a resurgence in the last two decades, driven by advancements in technology and machinery.

Helical piers have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 1800s. The concept was pioneered by Alexander Mitchell, an Irish engineer who was also blind. He developed helical piers to support lighthouses and docks in areas with weak and marshy soils. These early applications demonstrated the piers' capability to stabilize structures in challenging environments. Although their use diminished somewhat during the mid-1900s due to the need for specialized machinery and precise measurements, helical piers have seen a resurgence over the past two decades thanks to advancements in technology and construction techniques.

Helical piers have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 1800s. The concept originated with Alexander Mitchell, an Irish engineer who, despite being blind, developed these piers to support lighthouses and docks in weak and marshy soils. This innovative approach addressed the challenges of constructing in difficult terrains, where traditional digging methods were ineffective. The use of helical piers saw a decline in the mid-1900s due to the lack of suitable machinery and measurement techniques. However, the last two decades have witnessed a resurgence in their popularity, thanks to advancements in technology and a better understanding of their applications.

The Evolution of Helical Piers: A Historical Perspective

Helical piers have a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. Their inception can be attributed to Alexander Mitchell, an Irish engineer who was also blind. In 1833, Mitchell used these ingenious devices to support lighthouses and docks on weak, marshy soils. Initially, their primary function was to provide stability in challenging landscapes where traditional digging was impractical. Over the decades, their usage saw a decline, primarily due to the heavy machinery required and the complexity of installation.