When building a strong, long-lasting foundation for your home, it’s important to pick the right support system. Bell bottom piers are a great option, especially if your soil is unstable. In this easy guide, R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions explains what bell bottom piers are, why they work so well, and how our expertise can give your home the stability it needs.
What Are Bell Bottom Piers?
Bell bottom piers are a type of deep foundation that supports buildings in areas with weak or shifting soil. They get their name from their shape—straight shafts that widen at the base, like a bell. This flared base helps spread the weight of the building over a larger area, reducing the risk of sinking or settling.
The bell shape also makes the piers more stable, even in soil that might shift. This is why R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions uses bell bottom piers in homes that need extra support to stay solid over time.
How Bell Bottom Piers Are Made
Building bell bottom piers involves several steps:
- Site Check and Soil Testing: First, we examine the soil to figure out how deep the pier needs to go. Knowing the type of soil helps us decide the right depth and size for the pier.
- Drilling the Shaft: We drill a hole in the ground, usually 12 to 18 inches wide, depending on the project. The hole is drilled down to stable soil.
- Shaping the Bell Bottom: Once the hole is deep enough, we use special equipment to dig out the bottom, creating the bell shape. This wider base spreads the weight of the building over a bigger area.
- Adding Steel Reinforcement: Steel rods are placed inside the hole to make the pier stronger and more durable against soil movement.
- Pouring Concrete: Finally, we fill the hole with concrete to create a solid, long-lasting pier that will hold up the structure for years to come.
Why Choose Bell Bottom Piers?
Bell bottom piers have several advantages over other foundation systems:
- Better Load Distribution:
The bell-shaped base spreads the building’s weight over a wider area, making it less likely to sink. - More Stability:
Because they go deeper into the ground, bell bottom piers are more stable and can resist shifting soils. - Durable Over Time:
With steel and concrete reinforcement, bell bottom piers are built to last, resisting environmental wear and tear. - Adjustable Depth:
Bell bottom piers can be installed at various depths depending on the soil conditions. This makes them a flexible option for different types of land. - Proven Reliability:
Bell bottom piers have been trusted in construction for over a century, proving their reliability and effectiveness.
Bell Bottom Piers vs. Other Foundation Types
Bell bottom piers stand out when compared to other foundation systems:
- Slab Foundations: Slabs may crack or settle in unstable soil, while bell bottom piers provide deeper, stronger support.
- Helical Piers: Helical piers are useful for certain projects but generally don’t support as much weight as bell bottom piers.
- Steel Piers: Steel piers are strong but often more expensive. Bell bottom piers are a more cost-effective choice that still provides excellent stability.
Why R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions?
At R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions, we offer expert solutions for all your foundation needs. With years of experience, we make sure to properly assess your soil, recommend the right foundation system, and install it with precision.
Here’s what we do:
- Thorough Soil Testing: We carefully inspect the soil to determine the right depth and size for your piers.
- Professional Installation: Our team uses advanced tools and techniques to ensure your piers are installed correctly.
- Guaranteed Stability: We guarantee our work, ensuring your foundation remains solid for years to come.
Conclusion
Bell bottom piers are a great solution if you want a foundation that’s strong, stable, and durable. Their design ensures your home stays supported, even in difficult soil conditions. At R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions, we’re experts in installing and repairing bell bottom piers, making sure your home stands strong for the future.
If you’re interested in learning more or want to schedule a consultation, contact R.L.NELSON Foundation Solutions today! Let us help protect your home’s foundation with reliable, long-lasting solutions.