How much do helical piers cost?
Helical piers often cost $1,000 - $3,000+ per pier, and total foundation underpinning projects commonly land around $10,000 - $30,000+. Engineering, access, depth, number of piers, and lifting goals drive the final price.
Piers are not a general waterproofing fix. They are used when part of the foundation needs deeper support because the soil or footing is no longer carrying the load properly.
What affects helical pier pricing
Number of piers
$1,000 - $3,000+ eachHow to tellOne corner or wall section needs support vs. multiple sides of the house
The fixInstall piers at engineered spacing to support the affected area
Depth and soil conditions
Varies by depthHow to tellPiers must reach competent load-bearing soil, which may be deeper than expected
The fixAdvance piers to required torque/depth and document readings
Access and excavation
$1,000 - $8,000+ extraHow to tellDecks, patios, landscaping, tight side yards, or finished areas block work
The fixExcavate and stage equipment safely around the foundation
Lift vs. stabilize goal
Included or extraHow to tellContractor proposes lifting the foundation back toward level, not just stopping movement
The fixCareful synchronized lift where appropriate, with risk explained
Questions to ask before approving piers
- What evidence shows settlement rather than only water intrusion, framing movement, or cosmetic cracking?
- How many piers are proposed, at what spacing, and why?
- Will there be an engineer design, permit, or post-installation report?
- Are you promising lift, stabilization, or both? What damage can lifting cause?
Unlock the hiring checklist
Use this before you call a foundation repair, so you know what to ask and what to avoid.
Call a pro when…
- One section of the house is dropping or rotating
- Cracks are widening and doors/windows are sticking nearby
- A contractor recommends underpinning or piering
- You need documentation for a buyer, lender, or insurer
- Several contractors disagree about the cause of movement
Repair or replace?
Piers stabilize or support the existing foundation; they do not replace the entire foundation. They make sense when settlement is the real issue. If the problem is water pressure, poor drainage, or a bowed wall, piers may not address the cause.
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Related questions
Are helical piers better than push piers?
Neither is universally better. Soil, load, access, structure type, and engineering determine the right system. Ask why the proposed pier type fits your house.
How many helical piers does a house need?
It depends on the affected area and load. A small corner may need a few; a long wall or larger settlement zone needs more. The contractor should explain spacing and load assumptions.
Can piers lift a foundation back into place?
Sometimes partial lift is possible, but it is not risk-free. Interior finishes, plumbing, and framing may react to movement. Stabilization is the minimum goal.
Should I get a second opinion before helical piers?
Yes for most homeowners. Piering is expensive and structural. A second contractor or independent engineer can prevent buying the wrong fix.