5 Reasons to Use Steel Piling Instead of Concrete Piling
Buildings and other structures need to rest on a strong foundation, but the ground below isn't always going to be strong enough. When this is the case, piling can be used to take the weight of what is being built and transfer it down through softer ground to a stronger foundation below.
In the vast majority of cases, you'll use either steel piling or concrete piling. Both options come with their own benefits and drawbacks, but here are just five reasons to opt for steel piling.
1. Higher Tensile Strength
By far the most important benefit of steel piling is its high tensile strength. Concrete just can't compete with the strength of steel, and that strength offers several compelling benefits. Since steel is stronger, steel piling can be driven further into the ground and go through much denser layers than concrete piling. It's also much more resistant to damage and can support far heavier structures.
2. Longer Lifespan
Even if you don't need the strength of steel piling initially, its greater durability also means it should last longer than concrete piling. Since piling performs such an important role and is very hard to replace or repair, it only makes sense to opt for steel to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
3. Reusable
Steel piling doesn't just last longer than concrete piling. It can also be easily reused once it does need to be removed or replaced. Since steel piling will remain strong and can be easily removed from the ground and transported elsewhere, it's very easy to resell it for further use. This can mean using it for piling once again or repurposing it for another use. Steel piling can even be melted down and recast. In contrast, concrete piling is very hard to reuse.
4. More Versatile
You can find both types of piling in various configurations, but steel is generally found in a wider range of sizes, lengths, and shapes to suit different applications. Additionally, steel piling can be easily cut to different lengths on-site or joined with the assistance of welding. Concrete piling is not as easy to handle.
5. Minimal Excavation
Finally, it's worth considering that driving steel piling into the ground doesn't require as much excavation as placing concrete piling. This means it is often faster to put steel piling in the ground than concrete piling. It also makes steel piling better for the environment since it creates less disturbance across the surrounding landscape.