Piering: Your Quick Guide to a Sturdy UK Home Foundation
If you’ve spotted cracks in your floor, doors that stick, or walls that lean, piering might be the fix you need. It’s a straightforward method that adds support under a sagging foundation, keeping your house safe and level. Below we’ll break down what piering does, when to call a professional, and how to choose the right system for your property.
When Do You Need Piering?
Not every crack means you need piering. Look for these tell‑tale signs:
- Wide or growing cracks in brickwork or concrete slabs.
- Doors and windows that won’t close properly.
- Uneven floors that roll under your feet.
- Visible sagging in exterior walls or a leaning chimney.
If two or more of these appear, especially after a wet winter, it’s time to get a structural engineer on board. They’ll measure crack widths, check soil movement, and tell you whether piering will stop further damage.
Choosing the Right Piering Solution
There are three main pier types used in the UK:
- Concrete bored piles – drilled deep into stable ground, then filled with reinforced concrete. Best for heavy soils.
- Steel push piles – driven into the earth with a hydraulic hammer. Quick to install, great for chalk or clay.
- Helical (screw) piles – screwed into the ground like a giant screw. Ideal where access is tight or noise must be low.
Which one fits your project depends on soil type, budget, and how far the foundation has settled. Concrete piles cost more upfront but offer the longest lifespan. Steel piles are cheaper but can rust if not coated properly. Helical piles sit in the middle cost‑wise and are the least disruptive.
Before you sign a contract, ask the contractor for:
- A clear description of the pier type and why it’s best for your site.
- Proof of qualifications – look for a chartered structural engineer and a company with a solid reputation.
- Guarantee details – a reputable piering firm will back their work for at least 10 years.
While you’re at it, browse related articles on our site. Our post “Foundation Crack Size: When Is It Serious?” helps you spot dangerous cracks, and “Does Foundation Repair Really Work?” shows what to expect after piering.
Cost‑wise, piering typically runs between £90‑£150 per metre, depending on depth and material. A modest two‑bedroom house might need 30‑40 metres of piling, so budget roughly £4,000‑£6,000 for a solid fix. Remember that a well‑executed piering job can boost your property’s value and stop expensive future repairs.
Once the piles are in place, the contractor will jack up the settled sections, insert steel plates or brackets, and secure them to the new piers. The house is then lowered back onto a level base. The whole process can take one to three weeks, depending on weather and site access.
In short, piering is a proven way to rescue a sinking foundation without tearing down walls. Spot the signs early, get a qualified engineer’s opinion, and choose a reputable piering specialist. Your home will stay level, your doors will close, and you’ll avoid costly structural headaches down the line.
