When it comes to building strong, durable structures in challenging coastal environments, the foundation is everything. Traditional methods like concrete pilings and timber pilings are well-known, but modern innovations such as helical piles (also called helical pilings, screw pilings, or helical piling systems) are becoming a top choice for a wide range of projects.
From waterfront homes and docks to boardwalks and bulkheads, helical piles offer a stable and cost-effective foundation solution. In this article, we’ll explore what they are, how they work, their advantages in marine construction, and why Lamulle Construction is the trusted partner for installing them across Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
What Are Helical Piles?
Helical piles are deep foundation elements made of steel shafts fitted with helical (spiral-shaped) plates. Think of them as giant screws that anchor a structure into stable soil layers beneath the surface.
They are also known as helical pilings, screw pilings, or helical piling systems, and they are widely used in marine docks, decks, bulkheads, piers, and both residential and commercial foundations. The piles are installed by rotating them into the ground until they reach a load-bearing depth, creating a secure foundation without the need for large-scale excavation or lengthy curing times.
Why Helical Piles Are Ideal for Coastal Environments
Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast present unique challenges: soft soils, fluctuating water tables, and exposure to storms and erosion. Helical piles are well-suited to these conditions because they can be screwed directly into the soil with little disturbance, and they can be installed deep enough to reach stable layers that aren’t affected by surface shifting.
Unlike concrete pilings, which require curing time, helical piles can bear weight immediately after installation. Their design also resists flooding and soil movement by locking securely into the ground below unstable top layers. On top of that, their smaller installation footprint and reduced noise make them a more environmentally friendly choice compared to traditional pile-driving.
Applications of Helical Piles
Because of their versatility, helical piles are used in a wide range of projects.
For residential applications, they provide reliable foundations for waterfront homes, decks, porches, and even pool areas or retaining walls. In marine construction, they support docks, bulkheads, seawalls, and boardwalks that cross wetlands or marshy ground. Municipalities and commercial developers use helical piles for pedestrian bridges and walkways, marinas, and utility structures in sensitive wetland areas.
Benefits Over Traditional Pilings
Compared to concrete and timber pilings, helical piles offer a number of practical advantages. They can be installed quickly using hydraulic equipment, often in just a few hours, and they don’t require curing time. This means construction can begin immediately. Because they screw directly into the soil, they work in areas where driven piles might fail, and installation is much quieter without the loud noise of pile-driving.
They also save money by reducing labor hours and eliminating the need for heavy concrete materials. Once in place, they provide immediate load-bearing capacity, and because they’re made of galvanized steel, they resist corrosion and last longer in coastal environments.
Helical Pilings for Decks
One of the most common residential uses of helical pilings is for decks. Coastal soils are prone to shifting and erosion, which can cause traditional deck supports to sink or tilt over time. Helical pilings prevent this by anchoring decks deep into stable soil layers.
The installation process is also less invasive, so landscaping and yards see minimal disruption. For homeowners near shorelines, this makes them a long-term and reliable solution for building stable outdoor spaces.
Installation Process
The installation of helical piles is both precise and efficient. It begins with a site assessment to evaluate soil conditions and determine load requirements. Hydraulic equipment is then used to rotate the pile into the ground. Torque resistance is carefully monitored to confirm that the pile has reached the correct depth and stability.
Once installed, piles are load-tested to verify their capacity, and structural supports for decks, docks, or foundations are attached. Because the piles are immediately load-bearing, construction can begin right away.
Maintenance and Longevity
Helical piles require very little maintenance once installed. Occasional inspections of the above-ground connections are recommended, but the galvanized steel construction provides long-term protection against corrosion. When installed correctly, helical piles can last for decades, even in the demanding conditions of coastal environments.
Why Choose Lamulle Construction
Lamulle Construction brings decades of experience to marine and waterfront projects across Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Unlike general contractors, Lamulle specializes in building on challenging soils, marshlands, and erosion-prone areas.
The company has a proven record of completing successful projects throughout the region, from private homes to municipal structures. Beyond helical piles, Lamulle offers complete marine construction services including docks, decks, bulkheads, pile driving, and shoreline protection. Every project is built with a commitment to long-term durability in coastal environments.
Helical Piles: A Reliable Foundation for Coastal Projects
Helical piles are one of the most effective foundation systems for coastal construction. They provide the strength, stability, and efficiency that traditional piling methods can’t always match. Whether for a new deck, a dock, or an entire waterfront home, they offer a secure foundation solution for Louisiana and Mississippi properties.
Lamulle Construction has the expertise to install helical pilings properly, ensuring projects stand strong for decades. If you’re planning a marine or coastal project, contact Lamulle Construction today to learn more or request a consultation.
