The Project Repair school building's new construction yet failing foundation by underpinning with helical piles.
The Situation Located in New Market, MD, the Kiddie Academy faced repair its failing foundation. The right side of building was built on fill which was unable to provide the proper support. Before construction was even completed, the building started to sink. Cracks were beginning to show inside the building. Additionally, the structure was built very close to a hill and an existing perimeter fence which created very limited access for excavation and underpinning.
The Solution A total of thirty RS2875.275 round shaft helical piles were installed. Since the crew had to underpin from the building interior, they could not use an excavator, fifteen of the piles were installed with a handheld drive head. Great care had to be taken, as this new construction was 90% complete at the time of the underpinning. All the piles were installed, resulting in the new child care center opening on schedule.