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Why General Contractors Choose Helical Piles vs Concrete for Building Decks

  • Writer: GoliathTech Utah
    GoliathTech Utah
  • Sep 16
  • 3 min read

For general contractors, time is money and so is reputation. Traditional concrete footings for decks often come with delays, mess, and logistical headaches. But there's a smarter way and GoliathTech Utah has the answer, helical piles.


At GoliathTech Utah, we specialize in helical screw piles that provide a faster, cleaner, and stronger foundation for residential deck construction. No waiting. No curing. Just a rock-solid base, installed and ready to build on, same day.


Let’s dive into why more general contractors choose helical piles vs concrete for building decks—and why you should, too.



Screw Pile Deck Foundation

What Are Helical Piles and How Do They Work?


Helical piles are galvanized steel shafts with helix-shaped plates welded to them. These screw-like components are drilled deep into the ground using specialized equipment, anchoring below the frost line for maximum stability.


The result? A load-bearing foundation that’s instantly ready to support your deck framing—with zero downtime.


Helical piles being used to secure a  deck foundation system
Helical piles used for deck a foundation system

The Drawbacks of Traditional Concrete Footings


If you’ve ever built a deck using concrete footings, you already know the pain points. We've listed a few of the downsides to using concrete footings as a deck foundation:


  • Waiting on curing time—sometimes several days

  • Project delays due to rain or cold weather

  • Messy excavation and soil disposal

  • Disruption to landscaping and finished yards

  • Scheduling headaches with multiple visits


That’s time you can’t invoice. And clients you risk frustrating.


Helical Piles vs Concrete For Building Decks – Key Benefits for Contractors


1. No Waiting — Instant Use After Installation


Once installed, helical piles can immediately support the deck structure. No waiting for concrete to set. No back-and-forth to the job site. Just drill, build, and move on.


2. All-Weather Installation


Rainy spring? Frozen ground in the winter? No problem. Helical piles can be installed in virtually any weather, reducing seasonal downtime and keeping your crew moving.


3. Minimal Site Disturbance


Forget digging massive holes or removing piles of soil. Helical piles leave the site clean, neat, and almost untouched. That’s a huge plus for homeowners—and a smoother job for you.


4. Perfect for Sloped or Tight Sites


Building in a compact backyard or on a slope? Helical piles are engineered for tight access and challenging terrain, making them ideal for urban or hillside properties.


5. Superior Load Capacity and Stability


Helical piles are designed to go deep, bypassing weak topsoil and anchoring in stable strata. They offer greater resistance to frost heave, settling, and soil movement—keeping your deck level and secure for years.


Look at these photos of some recent deck jobs that we have done.



Why Contractors Trust GoliathTech Utah for Deck Projects


GoliathTech Utah isn’t just another helical pile provider, we’re your partner in smart, fast, foundation-first construction. Here’s what sets us apart:


  • Engineered, certified helical systems made for deck construction

  • Immediate load capacity upon installation

  • minimal excavation, no mess, no curing wait

  • Tested for Utah soil conditions and climate

  • Backed by industry-leading warranties


When you choose GoliathTech Utah, you’re not just building a deck—you’re building a trusted reputation with your clients and setting yourself apart from the competition.


Faster, Cleaner, Better Deck Builds – The Contractor Advantage


Smart contractors are already using helical piles to:


  • Slash installation timelines

  • Avoid concrete-related weather delays

  • Reduce crew hours on-site

  • Win more bids with faster turnaround

  • Deliver cleaner jobs with less cleanup

  • Keep clients happy and impressed


The future of building a deck is here. Why stay stuck in the past with messy and slow concrete footings?


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About GoliathTech Utah & Using Helical Piles For Your Deck Foundation


Can I start building the deck the same day the helical piles go in?

Yes! Helical piles are load-ready upon installation—no curing time needed.


Are helical piles more expensive than concrete footings?

Not necessarily. While materials may cost more, you’ll save on time, labor, equipment, and return visits.


Will they damage landscaping?

No digging, no mess. Helical piles are installed with precision equipment, keeping landscaping intact.


Do they work in any soil or weather?

Absolutely. From clay and sand to snow and rain, our piles are engineered for all-season performance.


Ready to Upgrade Your Deck Builds? Contact GoliathTech Utah Today


Don’t just build decks—build smarter, faster, and stronger with GoliathTech Utah’s screw pile system.


Compare foundation systems: Screw Piles vs Concrete Footings 


Ready to build smarter? Trust GoliathTech Utah to support your next deck job from the ground up.







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