Irvine

Helical piles in Irvine, California

In Southern California the main design questions are shaking and slope, not frost. The California Geological Survey maps Seismic Hazard Zones where liquefaction or earthquake-induced landslides are likely, and properties in those zones may need a site investigation and mitigation during permitting.

At low elevations the California Residential Code's rule that exterior footings sit at least 12 inches below undisturbed ground usually governs. Because installation torque lets each pile's capacity be checked, helical piles are used for foundation repair and underpinning, and for accessory dwelling units in tight backyards where there is little room for a drill rig.

Helical pile companies serving Irvine

Irvine has one company in our directory.

• Dalinghaus Construction Inc: repairs foundations and installs helical piers, helical piles, push piers and tiebacks across Orange County and Southern California.

Costs and what to ask

National figures from HomeGuide show installed helical piers at about $2,000 to $4,000 each, around $3,000 on average. California jobs often trend higher because of labor costs, engineering and difficult access. For the price drivers in more detail, see our helical pier cost guide.

Questions to ask any company quoting work in Irvine:

• Engineering: Has the engineer designed for lateral and axial loads, and checked whether the lot is inside a mapped seismic hazard zone?
• Torque logs: How is torque recorded, and will the log stay with my permit file?
• Galvanizing and shaft size: What shaft size and galvanizing will the piles have, and how does it fit a backyard ADU or addition?
• Permits and warranty: Will the City of Irvine issue the permit on your plans, and how long does the installer warrant the piers?

To compare firms beyond Irvine, browse California helical pile installers.