GoliathTech Supplies Helical Piles for Construction of a Boardwalk in Magog, Quebec in Very Difficult Winter Conditions

Links | Advertise | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

Home Engineers Manufacturers & Distributors Installation Contractors Marketplace

Community Contact Us

We started working on the foundation of a new boardwalk across a marsh in December and continued until March. Winter was the only time this could be done, since in other seasons the excavator would not have been able to operate on the soft ground. To make the ice strong enough to support the equipment, crews had to remove the insulating layer of snow each morning so the surface could freeze properly.

Because the site was in a protected environment, access was limited. The work had to stay within 24 inches of the existing trail, which meant large machinery could not be used. All piles and extensions were brought in by a six-wheeled Argo along narrow paths. To reduce the number of connections and improve efficiency, 14-foot pile sections were used instead of the usual 7-foot sections. This required a special drive head and a custom-built excavator coupler.

Timing was critical, as melting ice in spring would make the site inaccessible. The marsh soil was also unpredictable, so the crew regularly installed test piles 50 to 100 feet ahead of the main work to check conditions and adapt the design as needed. In some areas, piles had to be installed up to 85 feet deep before reaching stable ground. Engineering calculations and planning had already been carried out to ensure the long-term stability of the boardwalk, including installing angled piles every ten sets to resist lateral movement. Helical piles were the only foundation method suitable for this type of environment.

The work was organized efficiently. By the time two-thirds of the piles were installed, the carpenters were able to begin building the boardwalk directly behind the foundation crew, which showed how quickly construction could progress once the piles were in place.

Additional measures were taken to protect the environment. All petroleum-based oils in the machinery were replaced with environmentally friendly alternatives, and all tools on site were powered by portable generators. Crews also had to work carefully with small equipment to manage slippery ice conditions and limited access.

The project was completed within the required timeframe and achieved its objectives. The boardwalk was successfully built in a challenging location, using methods that balanced engineering requirements with environmental protection.

GoliathTech Supplies Helical Piles for Construction of a Boardwalk in Magog, Quebec in Very Difficult Winter Conditions

Winter, 2024-2025