Cantsink Helical Anchors: For Reliable, Cost-Effective Temporary Shoring

Temporary shoring provides earth retention support to protect construction sites from collapsed excavation or destabilization of surroundings during the process of a project.

The additional support is installed prior to or during excavation using the well-known top-down construction techniques, and is removed once the construction is complete. It is used for support for temporary shoring of trench faces, slopes or excavations to prevent soil movements and prevent soil caving. In many construction sites, the soil excavations required are constrained by limited space (site’s property lines and surrounding buildings), requiring a vertical excavation cut within the construction boundaries and a temporary support, providing protection to safely accomplish the site excavation and improve the development of the construction site.

In deep excavations, anchors are very popular and usually installed to provide additional lateral support for soldier piling and lagging (wood boards) as well as other driven steel sheet temporary retaining walls. Anchored shoring, as the name suggests, provides resistance by driving steel supports deep into the shoring wall. The number of anchors needed depends on the soil type, anchor specification, and the soil loading on the adjacent properties.

The most common types of anchors are concrete mixed grouted steel tendons and helical anchors. As described below, Cantsink helical anchors are more cost- effective and more beneficial than grouted anchors.

Cantsink helical tieback anchors are easily and quickly installed into retained soil using readily available construction equipment and less labor. This method requires no excavation or spoils and no need for dewatering. Cantsink anchors can be a great support for temporary shoring, can be installed in any weather, and can maximize flexibility with changing soil conditions (can be adjusted in the field to meet specified load resistance requirements). They can be removed and reused.

During installation, the measured torque is used to estimate the anchor’s capacity, using the well-known capacity-torque correlation. This quality control measure will ensure more successful load tests on- site, saving time and money. Once the installation is complete, Cantsink anchors can be tensioned immediately and tested without waiting for grout cure or grout equipment. By eliminating cure times and additional equipment cost associated with concrete mix grouted tendons, Cantsink helical anchors save significantsignficant project time and cost compared to grouting anchors.

Finally, Cantsink helical anchors are ICC-ES approved products, which means that they are tested and certified for performance to the highest industry standards. The ICC is an independent, member-focused association dedicated to developing model codes and standards.

Cantsink helical piles and anchors are manufactured in Metro Atlanta using the company’s patented design using 100 percent recycled U.S. steel. Cantsink’s manufacturing facility is a net-zero-energy operation using solar energy to power its operation. Cantsink helical piles and anchors are certified to provide the needed support for a wide variety of construction applications.

To learn more about helical piles, sign up for Cantsink’s free webinars and receive continuing education credits through NCSEA and AIA. Find out what effective, economical Cantsink helical piles and anchors can do to provide lasting stability in expansive soil.

From its commitment as an “early adopter” of solar for its net-zero-energy manufacturing facility in 2010, Cantsink has grown with the solar market.

Cantsink built a versatile line of stability products and services essential to successful utility-scale solar projects drawing on its own good experience with solar. These Cantsink offerings have evolved with the expanding solar market for the past decade. Solar developers and installers nationwide can employ Cantsink’s expertise with solar supplies and services for reliable construction groundwork.

The company offers support services such as pull testing, analysis, and engineering to assist with site preparation. Once specifications for the site are established, Cantsink can supply top quality beams and other products, ensuring long-term stability for all types of racking and panel design.

Cantsink is the stability expert, having focused exclusively on structural stability since its inception more than 30 years ago. The company has been on Solar Power World’s list of Top Solar Contractors since 2013, rising steadily through the rankings over the years.

Cantsink offers beams, testing, and engineered analysis of tests to be sure each project uses the correct size beam for long-term performance.

Cantsink has provided equipment and services to many satisfied clients in the solar industry. One project manager, Doug Merrill, who worked with Cantsink on a North Carolina project, praised Cantsink’s high-quality service and value.

“In all email exchanges, conference call interfaces, and face-to-face experience with Cantsink, [it] has been the best I have been a part of in my 30 years of field construction,” Merrill said. “Cantsink is fast, responsive, and 30 percent cheaper than any other solution we explored. A total win/win.”

With time-tested knowledge, experience, equipment, and crews, Cantsink proudly serves the utility-scale solar market. A decade of hands-on performance makes Cantsink products and services the reliable choice for successful solar project operation.

Cantsink’s quality testing and analysis can help to ensure the right beams are being used for the specific soils on each site.

Contact Cantsink today to learn more about the company’s products and services for utility-scale solar.

Keeping Pools Level and Safe with Cantsink Helical Piles

With winter coming on, now is the best time for planning 2021 summer fun, including pool support with Cantsink helical piles.

The weight of concrete and water in soft soils can create problems without support underneath to prevent sinking and cracking. That’s why pool design should begin with proper soil testing and permanent support for years of use and beauty. Uneven surfaces in and around pools are unsightly and potentially hazardous.

Building a secure and stable pool area starts with support from deep underground to keep the structure from sinking or shifting in extremely cold or wet seasonal weather. This will provide a stable pool and surroundings through years of summer storms and icy winters.

Unyielding support is necessary especially in soil that is porous. Porous soil allows water to infiltrate, undermining support below the pool structure, and making it prone to expand when it freezes, lifting and shifting everything above.

Our products at Cantsink provide a fast, cost-effective solution for pools in areas with soft soil or locations near bodies of water, such as lakes, streams, or the ocean. Starting with support from Cantsink helical piles assures a result that will provide years of worry-free enjoyment during warm weather.

Patented design makes Cantsink helical piles the right choice for pools, patios, and decks with lasting beauty. Cantsink products are tested and certified to the highest standards of performance established by the International Code Council, an independent, member-focused association for building products’ quality.

With their self-verifying installation, our products are easy to put in correctly and help keep construction on schedule. Plus, Cantsink helical piles can be installed in tight locations with minimal disruption to surroundings. Cantsink’s long reputation for reliability and customer service has made the company a trusted resource for designers and builders throughout Georgia and beyond.

Best of all, our products are sustainable, manufactured from 100 percent recycled U.S. steel in Cantsink’s net-zero-energy facility powered with solar. Cantsink’s manufacturing facility in Metro Atlanta uses a patented design that produces less waste and provides strong, reliable support.

Not only are Cantsink helical piles the right start for construction, but they also can be used to provide foundation support for pools, patios, and decks that are sinking in soft soils. Now is the best time to check pools for signs of instability, so they can be repaired before warm weather returns.

Installers in need of helical piles can rely on Cantsink for fast turn-around on orders and unsurpassed results for their projects.

Contact Cantsink for more details on how beautiful pools start with helical pile support. And to learn more about the many versatile uses for our products, sign up for Cantsink’s free webinars. These webinars include continuing education credits from AIA and NCSEA for architects, engineers, helical installers, and other construction professionals.

Get a jump on summer fun with Cantsink.

From its commitment as an “early adopter” of solar for its net-zero-energy manufacturing facility in 2010, Cantsink has grown with the solar market.

Cantsink built a versatile line of stability products and services essential to successful utility-scale solar projects drawing on its own good experience with solar. These Cantsink offerings have evolved with the expanding solar market for the past decade. Solar developers and installers nationwide can employ Cantsink’s expertise with solar supplies and services for reliable construction groundwork.

The company offers support services such as pull testing, analysis, and engineering to assist with site preparation. Once specifications for the site are established, Cantsink can supply top quality beams and other products, ensuring long-term stability for all types of racking and panel design.

Cantsink is the stability expert, having focused exclusively on structural stability since its inception more than 30 years ago. The company has been on Solar Power World’s list of Top Solar Contractors since 2013, rising steadily through the rankings over the years.

Cantsink offers beams, testing, and engineered analysis of tests to be sure each project uses the correct size beam for long-term performance.

Cantsink has provided equipment and services to many satisfied clients in the solar industry. One project manager, Doug Merrill, who worked with Cantsink on a North Carolina project, praised Cantsink’s high-quality service and value.

“In all email exchanges, conference call interfaces, and face-to-face experience with Cantsink, [it] has been the best I have been a part of in my 30 years of field construction,” Merrill said. “Cantsink is fast, responsive, and 30 percent cheaper than any other solution we explored. A total win/win.”

With time-tested knowledge, experience, equipment, and crews, Cantsink proudly serves the utility-scale solar market. A decade of hands-on performance makes Cantsink products and services the reliable choice for successful solar project operation.

Cantsink’s quality testing and analysis can help to ensure the right beams are being used for the specific soils on each site.

Contact Cantsink today to learn more about the company’s products and services for utility-scale solar.

From Pull Testing to Beam Supply, Cantsink Offers Experience and Cost-Effective Stability for Utility-Scale Solar Projects

From its commitment as an “early adopter” of solar for its net-zero-energy manufacturing facility in 2010, Cantsink has grown with the solar market.

Cantsink built a versatile line of stability products and services essential to successful utility-scale solar projects drawing on its own good experience with solar. These Cantsink offerings have evolved with the expanding solar market for the past decade. Solar developers and installers nationwide can employ Cantsink’s expertise with solar supplies and services for reliable construction groundwork.

The company offers support services such as pull testing, analysis, and engineering to assist with site preparation. Once specifications for the site are established, Cantsink can supply top quality beams and other products, ensuring long-term stability for all types of racking and panel design.

Cantsink is the stability expert, having focused exclusively on structural stability since its inception more than 30 years ago. The company has been on Solar Power World’s list of Top Solar Contractors since 2013, rising steadily through the rankings over the years.

Cantsink offers beams, testing, and engineered analysis of tests to be sure each project uses the correct size beam for long-term performance.

Cantsink has provided equipment and services to many satisfied clients in the solar industry. One project manager, Doug Merrill, who worked with Cantsink on a North Carolina project, praised Cantsink’s high-quality service and value.

“In all email exchanges, conference call interfaces, and face-to-face experience with Cantsink, [it] has been the best I have been a part of in my 30 years of field construction,” Merrill said. “Cantsink is fast, responsive, and 30 percent cheaper than any other solution we explored. A total win/win.”

With time-tested knowledge, experience, equipment, and crews, Cantsink proudly serves the utility-scale solar market. A decade of hands-on performance makes Cantsink products and services the reliable choice for successful solar project operation.

Cantsink’s quality testing and analysis can help to ensure the right beams are being used for the specific soils on each site.

Contact Cantsink today to learn more about the company’s products and services for utility-scale solar.

Cantsink Helical Piers are Ideal for Remediation of Stability Issues in Existing Structures

The 2020 storm season is already setting records, and communities all over the U.S. are facing structural recovery from storm damage.

Cantsink helical piers and piles have long been applied to restoring structural foundation stability to buildings and other structures disrupted by flooding and storm-water runoff. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, Cantsink was among the approved solutions to help Northeastern communities recover from its devastation.

More recently, Cantsink’s certified products have been deployed in numerous coastal communities to increase elevation and structural foundation stability for buildings that are newly at risk for flood damage.

In coastal North Carolina, for example, the historic Davis Free Will Baptist Church hired Progressive Construction, a Cantsink-certified installer, to elevate its sanctuary and adjacent facilities after they were repeatedly damaged by flooding. Not only did the crew use Cantsink products to lift and stabilize some 300,000 pounds of footings for the project, but the work was also completed during rainy weather with a water table just four inches below ground.

At completion, the structure was elevated by three feet, preserving it as a local landmark for future generations to enjoy.

Similarly, Cantsink products elevated the sinking area of a commercial gym in North Georgia damaged by a nearby stream diversion culvert that collapsed after heavy rains. Despite rainy conditions, work proceeded quickly and the gym was allowed to reopen, averting prolonged revenue losses.

Manufactured from 100 percent recycled U.S. steel, Cantsink helical piers and piles are made in the company’s net-zero-energy Metro Atlanta facility from a patented design that produces less waste. Cantsink products also are tested and certified for performance in accordance with standards established by the International Code Council, an independent, member-focused association that developed performance standards for building products.

Cantsink welcomes building professionals who want to join its national network of certified installers. All installers receive free, hands-on training at Cantsink headquarters and ongoing support from company experts.

Company engineers also work with project architects and engineers. Company professionals can offer tips on the most effective strategy for permanent stabilization using its patented helical piers, piles. and other products. Cantsink’s extensive product inventory offers an effective solution for nearly any type of soil or weather conditions.

The company also provides a fast turnaround on orders.

To learn more about the benefits and versatile applications of helical piers and piles for permanent structural stability, sign up for Cantsink’s accredited webinars. Building professionals can receive AIA and NCSEA continuing education credits for participating. Individual companies can schedule special “Lunch and Learn” presentations for their employees.

Call Cantsink today to find out more about how both new and remedial projects can benefit from its cost-effective helical piers and piles.

Helical Piers Provide Cost-Effective Stability in Rainy Conditions

This year, 2020, has been one of the wettest on record in many parts of the U.S., presenting a challenge for architects, engineers, and builders.

These professionals already know how disruptive wet weather and poor soils can be for structural stability. The recent relentless rain has created other challenges, too, such as future settlement issues, unless properly addressed and reinforced from the beginning.

Cantsink, a manufacturer of steel helical piers and piles, can provide an easy and elegant method for creating permanent stability without delays, even in rainy weather. Tested and certified to meet the highest standards for pier performance, Cantsink’s products will stand the test of time.

Manufactured from 100 percent recycled U.S. steel, Cantsink has a range of products for all types of applications, soils, and weather conditions. Cantsink helical piers and piles are fabricated in the company’s net-zero-energy facility in Metro Atlanta. Company engineers are available to consult with project engineers to offer support in selecting the right product and most effective design.

Our products can provide permanent support for homes, commercial buildings, utility poles, equipment pads, decks, porches, and other structural assets. They also can provide support and reinforcement for retaining walls and temporary shoring needs.

The International Code Council, an independent, member-focused association that developed performance standards for building products, has a code for helical piles and piers. Cantsink products have been tested and certified to meet these standards. In addition, Cantsink products offer even more unique advantages over other stability methods.

Cantsink’s helical piles and piers are manufactured with the company’s patented helix, a process that creates stronger support than other products on the market and produces less waste during fabrication.

Certified Cantsink installers are available in locations throughout the country. All installers receive hands-on training and support from Cantsink’s headquarters, ensuring that the permanent stability of Cantsink helical piers and piles gets expert attention on every site.

The Cantsink website also offers accredited webinars with detailed information on how these piles work, effective applications across a range of structures, and case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of pile support. Webinar participants can receive continuing education credits from AIA and NCSEA. For more information or to schedule a webinar, contact Cantsink.

Forecast models indicate that wet weather and flooding will be more common in the decades ahead. Building with structural stability to withstand these conditions is the smart choice.

Consult our construction engineering blog, and contact our construction engineering experts at Cantsink today to learn more about our helical piles and piers, and the best way to build for the future.

string inverter mounting solution - centric

New Cantsink mounting solution helps protect and centralize string inverters

Cantsink, a solar product supplier since 2010, is introducing Centric, its latest innovation in solar invertor installation and mountain solutions, speeds inverter installation and makes monitoring easier.

By allowing location of string inverters at a central position among ground-mounted panels, Centric streamlines solar inverter installation and placement during construction. In a traditional arrangement underneath the panels, inverters are mounted one-by-one in successive spots throughout the project. Centric offers a single, covered location for mounting multiple inverters.

string inverter mounting solution - centric

This not only speeds solar inverter installation and placement, it also makes O&M easier by allowing inspection of multiple inverters at one location. Oversight of individual units takes minutes rather than hours. Streamlined monitoring, in conjunction with protection from the elements, means the solar project as a whole works better and lasts longer.

With more utility scale projects using trackers to maximize generation, string inverters mounted under panels are more exposed to sun, rain and storms. Centric allows string inverters to be sheltered, as well as making them more accessible for quick inspection.

Patrick Hutchinson, president of Cantsink, said the complexity of rapidly evolving solar technology calls for supporting innovation that will also make solar installations more efficient throughout construction and operation.

“Having grown with the solar industry over the past decade, the innovative team at Cantsink is aware of ongoing needs for better equipment and new methods for managing solar sites,” Hutchinson said. “Centric is the kind of cost-effective design that not only improves the initial installation process, but keeps the project running effectively throughout its life.”

helical piles facility Congressman Jody Hice visits cantsink

Cantsink Hosts Informational Site Visit from U.S. Congressman Jody Hice

U.S. Representative Jody Hice (R-10) honored Cantsink in April with a site visit to learn more about the company, its products and its role in the growing energy market.

  He met with us at our net-zero-energy manufacturing facility in Metro Atlanta. Cantsink President Patrick Hutchinson and Safety Director/Project Manager Sharon Lee spoke with Congressman Hice about renewable energy growth and the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Cantsink has been a leader in providing effective products, such as our helical foundation anchors, to serve evolving renewable energy technology, as well as products that support effective power grid operation.

  Read about it here in Congressman Hice’s newsletter:

https://hice.house.gov/news/email/show.aspx

Congressman Jody Hice visits cantsink helical piles facility pat hutchinson sharon lee

jewel homes helical piles case study

Cantsink Holds Foundations Steady Through Spring Rains, Cost-Effective Protection from Unexpected Sinking

April showers bring May flowers, but coming on the heels of the wettest winter on record they may also produce unexpected foundation issues.

  Changing weather patterns and extreme weather events are creating new issues for businesses and homeowners. But stormy weather is no cause for concern when foundations are supported by Cantsink’s patented helical piers. Cantsink offers an effective underground support system for new construction as well as a remedial solution for restoring alignment or increasing elevation.

  Experts are predicting unprecedented flooding in many parts of the East Coast during the next few months. The Midwest has already borne the brunt of snow melt, heavy rain and extreme storm activity. And coastal states are reconsidering their flood zone boundaries and building codes.

  Cantsink was called in to provide support for a Jacksonville, FL, home built to replace a razed structure damaged by extreme weather. Local government rezoned the lot because the storm activity had revealed its location to be more flood-prone than initially assumed. The rezoning required a building elevation three feet higher than the previous structure.

  Engineers working with Alexander Grace Consulting specified pier columns to elevate the house connected with a shallow concrete grade beam to help it withstand lateral stress. Cantsink helical piers were installed below ground to stabilize the new elevated design.

  Complicating the installation, geotechnical reports showed very inconsistent soils and a potential dense layer 38-55 feet below grade. Plus, site conditions required the installation to be accomplished without disturbing the nearby marshland, and a potential penalty of $10,000 for violation.

  This made installation of Cantsink helical piers the ideal solution because they avoided the need for heavy machinery that could have encroached on the marshland. Cantsink helical piers are installed with a skid steer, which is less expensive to mobilize and easier to maneuver on the site. Finally, work had to be coordinated with tidal flows, which intermittently interfered with visibility and work requirements in the pre-dug footings.

  Cantsink’s patented helical piers provided a perfect solution to the tight working conditions and soil-related challenges. Using helical piers helped the contractor stay on schedule with maximum installation efficiency. Cantsink crews also carefully coordinated their work schedule with weather forecasts for tidal ebb and flow to maximize installation accuracy and productivity. The installation was completed without any marshland disturbance.

  Whether working in coastal environments or challenging conditions anywhere, Cantsink helical piers provide cost-effective solutions that save time and money. The result is permanent stability in any type of soil or weather conditions.

  Using 100% U.S. steel, Cantsink fabricates a wide range of patented helical piers certified for performance by the International Code Council. The ICC is an independent, member-focused association dedicated to developing model codes and standards. Cantsink also offers engineering support and superior customer service.

  With its recently expanded manufacturing and storage capacity, Cantsink offers fast turnaround on orders. Two-day, hands-on certification training for installers is conducted quarterly at Cantsink headquarters in Metro Atlanta. The training is free and Cantsink provides ongoing support that includes marketing materials, prospect leads and consulting.

  Cantsink helical piers offer numerous advantages over other underground support methods. Installation requires no curing delay and can even be performed in standing water, so issues prompted by soaking rains in soft soil can be resolved before structural damage worsens. Construction schedules for new buildings stay on budget in almost any weather.

  Cantsink can handle everything from a whole-structure elevation project to a minimally invasive remediation for a sinking foundation. And starting new construction right with our patented helical piers keeps foundations solid from Day One.

  Contact Cantsink today to see what permanent stability can do to banish rainy-day worries.

jewel homes helical pile case study
jewel homes helical piers case study