Push Piers
What Are Push Piers
A push pier, also called a driven pile or resistance pier, is a series of interlocking steel tubes that are hydraulically driven into the ground beneath your foundation. The weight of the structure itself acts as the resistance, pushing each section of pipe deeper until it reaches bedrock or a stable soil layer that can support the load.
Once the pier reaches adequate bearing depth, a steel bracket connects it to the foundation footing and the building’s weight is transferred onto the pier. This permanently stops further settlement and, in many cases, allows the foundation to be lifted back toward its original position.
Push piers are one of the most proven foundation repair methods available. The Ram Jack® push pier system we install is engineered for heavy loads and deep installations, with each pier individually load-tested to verify performance.
How They Work
Excavation
Small access points are excavated at the base of the foundation at each pier location. These are typically about two to three feet wide and deep enough to expose the footing.
Bracket Placement
A heavy-duty steel bracket is positioned beneath the foundation footing. This bracket serves as the connection point between the pier and the structure.
Driving the Pier
Interlocking steel tubes are hydraulically driven through the bracket and into the ground, one section at a time. The building's own weight provides the resistance needed to push each section deeper.
Load Transfer and Lift
Once the pier reaches stable soil or bedrock, the building's weight is transferred from the unstable surface soil onto the pier system. If lifting is part of the plan, hydraulic jacks carefully raise the foundation back toward level.
What to Expect
Many residential pile installations are completed in up to 2 weeks, depending on the number of piles and site conditions. The process involves some excavation around the foundation, but the work areas are typically small and contained. There is minimal vibration, which matters when you are working close to an existing structure.
During installation, we monitor the process continuously and document every pier’s performance with depth and load data.
After installation, all excavation points are backfilled and compacted. Landscaping and any concrete disturbed for access are restored. You receive complete documentation including pier installation records, load test data, and warranty information.
When Push Piers Are the Right Choice
Heavier Structures
Deep Stable Soil
Active Settlement
Foundation Lifting
Established Buildings
Related Products
Helical Piles
Screwed into the ground to anchor your foundation on stable soil. Ideal for lighter structures, new construction, and sites with limited access. Minimal vibration, immediate loading capacity.
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Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
High-strength carbon fiber straps bonded to basement walls to stop bowing and cracking. A minimally invasive solution that adds structural strength without excavation.
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Not Sure Which You Need?
We help homeowners understand their options every day. Our comparison guide explains the differences and helps you know what questions to ask.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
Push piers are driven straight down using the weight of the structure as resistance. Helical piles are screwed into the ground using torque. Push piers are typically better for heavier structures and deeper stable soil. Helical piles are better for lighter structures and situations where installation noise and vibration need to be minimized. See our solution comparison for a detailed breakdown.
There is no fixed depth limit. Push piers are driven until they reach refusal on bedrock or a stable bearing layer. In the Lower Mainland, this can depend on the geology of the specific site.
In many cases, yes. After the piers reach stable soil, hydraulic jacks can carefully lift the foundation back toward its original position. The amount of lift possible depends on the condition of the foundation and the extent of the settlement. We discuss realistic expectations during the assessment.
No. Each pier location requires a small excavation about two to three feet wide and deep enough to expose the footing. These are localized access points, not a continuous trench around the perimeter. All excavation is backfilled and restored after installation.
Yes. Interior push piers can be installed through the basement floor slab when exterior access is limited. This involves cutting small access points in the slab, which are patched after installation.