What are ground screws? The complete beginner’s guide.

We know when it comes to construction projects you want them to be done quickly, efficiently, and with the best possible materials. This has resulted in new methods and equipment being developed and delivered over the last few years. It can all seem a bit overwhelming when you look at the variety of options available for a variety of projects. 

Take foundations for example, for many years concrete has been the go-to for most building and construction projects. However, recently more companies have been starting to use ground screws to secure their projects. But what are ground screws and how do they work? 

Enter the Stop Digging introduction guide to ground screws. 

In this guide you will learn:

• What ground screws are and the benefits of using them 
• The different types of ground screws 
• How ground screws work and can work for you 

Read on to make sure you are not left behind, and use the best possible material for your construction project. 

What are ground screws? 

Ground screws are also known as helical screws, ground anchors, pier anchors, or earth screws. They work in a very similar way to a household screw that you would use to attach two pieces of furniture together, except they are much larger and are made from galvanised steel in order to bear the weight of a building. 

They can be used as a modern and cost-effective foundation solution for both large and small projects, from fences and signposts to garden rooms and SIP buildings. 

Why use ground screws? 

Ground screws are becoming a more and more popular foundation solution for many builders and residential projects. But why use ground screws? What are the benefits?  

• Quick – With no waiting for materials to set, ground screws can be installed in a matter of hours and are ready for the next stage of construction. Preparation is minimal with no digging required, meaning that you don’t have to worry about disposing of soil or worry about the time it will take to excavate the site.
• Works in most types of soil – No matter if you have rocky, sandy or even frozen soil ground screws can be installed. They are also great for sloped ground and conservation areas that are tricky for most other types of foundations. Their flexibility extends to the types of projects they can be used for. A foundation using earth screws is suitable for patios, decking, garden rooms, SIPS extensions, carports, signs, fences, noise barriers, recycling storage sheds, bicycle storage, park benches, rubbish bins and much more. 
• Better for the environment – Ground screws are a climate-friendly option when it comes to foundations, compared to many other anchoring methods. Traditional cast concrete slabs contribute to 1000% more carbon dioxide emissions than our ground screws do. Concrete supports also emit 60% more carbon dioxide during manufacture. Also, they are very durable, meaning that sustainable building is possible.

Types of ground screws 

At Stop Digging we specialise in four types of ground screws; Beam screws, Pipe screws, Post screws and Adapter screws. These then come with different brackets, lengths and measurements depending on the project that needs to be anchored, the load requirements and the ground conditions.

All of our Ground Screws come with a 25-year guarantee, meaning that the foundation will be secure and will last many years. If you need to move the project then the screws can be recycled in a new area, once installed by a qualified technician. If you would like more detailed information about the Stop Digging ground screws then please see the detailed product sheets here. 

How ground screws work

Ground screws work in a similar way to a concrete foundation, but they have a much quicker installation process. The ground is pre-drilled before the screw is applied. This makes the screws easier to attach, and will also move or break down any small to medium-sized rocks in the way. The installation machine is compact and will not damage grass or other surfaces. The machines should only be operated by qualified technicians. 

As you don’t need to wait for concrete to set you can start building as soon as the last screw has been placed. This can help the next stage of the project to be done faster and more efficiently. 

Get started with ground screws today 

If you would like more information about how you could use ground screws for your project then please get in touch with us here at Stop Digging today: SALES@STOPDIGGING.CO.UK or 020 3970 3979.