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How Deep Do Screw Piles Need to Go?

  • Writer: Frank Leigh
    Frank Leigh
  • Jul 29
  • 3 min read

A Guide to Ground Conditions

When planning any building project, one of the most critical early steps is understanding the ground beneath your feet. The depth your screw piles need to go depends entirely on the ground conditions on site — and getting it right is essential for long-term stability and performance.

At ABC Anchors, we’re here to make that easier. Whether you’re a self-builder, contractor, or installer, this guide will help you understand what affects screw pile depth and how to make informed decisions during the foundation stage.


screw pile

📏 What Determines Screw Pile Depth?

Screw piles are not one-size-fits-all. They must be driven deep enough to reach a layer of soil or strata capable of carrying the load of your structure. The required depth depends on:

  • Soil type and consistency Loose or soft soils like clay, peat, or made ground will require deeper installation than compact gravel or dense sand.

  • Load requirements Heavier structures — such as wind turbines or bridges — may need deeper or larger piles than lighter garden rooms or sheds.

  • Site-specific factors Sloping ground, proximity to trees, or previous site use can all influence required depths.


🛠️ Torque = Holding Capacity

We don’t just guess how deep to go — we measure it.

Screw piles are installed while monitoring the torque (twisting force) required to drive them into the ground. The deeper the pile goes — and the harder the ground becomes — the more torque is needed. This increase in torque tells us when the pile has reached suitable load-bearing strata.

The higher the torque, the greater the holding capacity of the pile.

At ABC Anchors, all our piles are installed to a measured torque limit, not just a depth. This approach ensures a structurally sound and site-specific foundation every time.


🧭 Not Sure About Your Site’s Ground Conditions?

If you're unsure what type of soil you’re working with or how deep your piles need to go, we can help.

We’ve created a dedicated page on our website to help you:

  • Identify typical UK soil types

  • Understand torque readings and their relationship to soil strength

  • Learn how to carry out a test pile installation before full build

  • Choose the right pile size and torque head for your project


⚙️ Typical Screw Pile Depths (For Reference)

While every site is different, here are some general guidelines based on past projects:

Structure Type

Ground Type

Estimated Depth

Garden Room

Clay/Soft Ground

2.5 – 4.5m

Timber Cabin

Mixed Soils

3 – 5m

SIP Panel Home Extension

Dense/Compact Soils

2 – 3.5m

Temporary Site Buildings

Mixed Fill

3 – 6m+

These are estimates only — always confirm using torque readings on site.

✅ Need Support?

We’re always happy to offer advice before you begin. Whether you're installing piles yourself with a hand-held torque head or using one of our Autoguide machine-mounted systems, our team can guide you through the process — or even provide on-site support and training.


⚡ Ready to Get Started?

Check out our Ground Conditions & Torque Guidance Page to learn more, or get in touch with our technical team for personalised advice on your project.


ABC Anchors – Trusted screw pile experts.



 
 
 

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