Category: Structure & materials
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Piles are reinforced concrete columns cast or driven deep into the ground to carry building loads through weak layers to firm strata or by friction with the soil. The most common are bored cast-in-place piles, typically 60 to 120 cm in diameter.
Why it matters on a project
They are used for towers, heavy buildings and weak or waterlogged soil. They are costly, and the decision comes from the soil report and load tests.
Measurement and pricing
Per linear metre for each diameter including boring, concrete and steel, load tests and integrity tests by number, and pile head trimming by number.
Worked example
20 piles of 80 cm diameter and 18 m deep: total length 20 × 18 = 360 linear metres, and concrete 360 × 3.1416 × 0.4² = about 181 m³.
Common mistake
Skipping load or integrity tests before casting pile caps, so defects only show after loading.
Frequently asked questions
Do villas need piles?
Rarely, only where the soil is very weak or waterlogged to depth, per the soil report.
What is a load test?
Loading a test pile beyond the design load to measure settlement and confirm capacity before the design is approved.
Related terms
- Soil investigation reportThe borehole study on which the foundations are designed.
- Raft foundationA single reinforced concrete slab foundation under the whole building.
- Footings (foundations)Structural elements that transfer the building loads to the soil.
- Third-party inspectionIndependent testing by an accredited body separate from contractor and owner.
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