A Guide to Concrete Piling

Concrete piling is essential for deep foundational support in modern construction. Think of it as a series of concrete pillars buried underground to provide stability to buildings and other large structures.

This article explores the different types of concrete piles, their installation and their importance. We’ll explore how these pillars ensure the stability and durability of buildings and structures.

What is Concrete Piling?

Concrete piling is a crucial component of modern construction. offering a foundation that bears the weight of massive structures. Surprisingly, these pillars are easy to install and they offer superb resistance against excess drainage — make them a popular choice for substructure support.

What Strength of Concrete is Needed for Piling?

When it comes to the strength of concrete for piling, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on the specific requirements of the project. At Total Concrete, we craft the perfect blend of concrete for your application. Simply discuss your requirements with our team and we’ll deliver a custom blend directly to your site.

Types of Concrete Piles

Cast-in-place Piles

Cast-in-place piles can be further categorised into cased and uncased types. The cased variety, featuring a steel tube, ensures precision and cleanliness in concrete placement. Uncased piles, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly but demand careful placement during installation.

In both cases, cast-in-place piling requires careful supervision and can be time-consuming due to form setup, concrete curing and weather considerations.

Precast Piles

Precast piles are hammered or driven into the soil using large equipment. They are versatile, suitable for various soil conditions and often used where foundations extend above water or ground level. Manufactured off-site in controlled environments, they come in various shapes and can carry higher working loads.

Precast piles are generally more expensive. They require specialised equipment to install and the installation process is not always suitable for all sites. High noise levels for installation equipment and vibration, can also be an important factor when considering to use precast piles.

Lifespan of Concrete Piles

The lifespan of concrete piles can vary but, on average, concrete used in building structures and homes is expected to last about 30 to 100 years, depending on installation methods and construction style. Precast concrete specifically is designed to last for about 50 years, while modern concrete in large infrastructures can last up to 100 years if properly maintained.

To improve the longevity of your concrete, it’s important to use a high-quality mix – such as the concrete available at Total Concrete.

Quality Concrete for Construction from Total Concrete

Based in Woking and serving areas like Guildford and Surrey, Total Concrete specialises in providing high-quality concrete for both domestic and commercial needs. With a commitment to superior standards and a fully trained workforce, our team ensures the delivery of the best grade concrete for projects like driveways, patios, floors and foundational support.

Order your perfect concrete mix today by contacting the Total Concrete team.