Ground Screw FAQ

Ground screws are an innovative alternative for constructing foundations that will support numerous structure types. They offer many benefits over concrete-based foundations and can bear the same loads as conventional concrete foundations in many situations. Ground screws are galvanized steel pipes with a welded-on thread designed to support horizontal and vertical loads. They are driven into the earth with a ground screw driver which compacts the earth and creates a frictional connection between the earth and the steel pipe without displacing the surface. Once installed, structures can immediately be erected.

Our ground screws can be used as a foundation for mounting a wide range of structures, including decks, fences, solar panel racks, sheds, timber frame homes, light standards, and many more. Our ground screws are highly versatile, enabling the attachment of columns, posts and beams for your project.

Your ground screw selection is determined by the load requirements of your project and the composition of the soil at the installation site. A local installer is an excellent source for insight into local soil conditions or a soil survey can be performed. Once determined, a foundation plan (i.e. the number and placement of screws) can be developed. Installation can then begin. Please contact us for more information on the process of choosing your ground screw products.

Our ground screws are driven into the ground either manually or with a ground screw driver, depending on the type of ground screw used and the nature of the installation and soil conditions. While some small ground screw foundations may be manually installed with a crank bar, most jobs require installation with low speed, high torque rotary drivers. These drivers range from electric hand-held ground screw drivers, to hydraulic screw driving vehicles or add-ons for other construction machines. Our ground screws can be installed year round and typically work well in all kinds of substrates, including rock. Refer to your local installer or the Installation section for more information on installation practices and equipment rental.

It depends on the application. Smaller applications with no soil complications generally can be done manually with a screw-in rod or by renting a hand-held ground screw driver. Larger (e.g. homes, large decks) and more complicated installations generally require the hiring of a professional installer.

No, ground screws are screwed into the ground without the need to move any earth. Additionally, the area surrounding your construction site remains largely undamaged during the installation process.

Yes, as long as your ground screw is not damaged it can be re-used on another job. To remove, turn the ground screw counter-clockwise, then use on a new job. If the screw is damaged it can be recycled.

BDI ground screws are designed for durability and longevity. We guarantee our ground screws for 30 years, though the typical life is 50-75 years.

You can purchase our ground screws from our distribution partners. Please contact us for more information.

Simply call 811 from anywhere in the country a few days prior to installing your ground screws and you will reach your local one call center. Your local utility companies will be notified of your intent to dig. They will typically send a locator within 2-3 days to mark the approximate location of your underground utility lines.