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Quick answers to common questions about ground screws, installation, and approvals
General FAQ’s
What is Michigan Ground Screw and what do you offer?
Michigan Ground Screw provides code-approved, engineered wood-alternative footings called ground screws, as well as professional installation, training, and support for DIY, dealers and installers for residential, commercial, and specialty projects across Michigan.
What are ground screws and where can they be used?
Ground screws are galvanized steel foundation systems installed without wood in the ground nor concrete and are used for homes, decks, fences, additions, boardwalks, solar systems, light commercial structures and many other applications.
Are ground screws approved and code-compliant in Michigan?
Yes, our brand of ground screws, American Ground Screw, has a nation-wide recognized ICC-ESR, which is an evaluation report issued by the International Code Council Evaluation Services department.
American Ground Screw is also the only wood-alternative footing product on the market with a Michigan statewide approval issued by the Michigan Bureau of Construction Codes.
How does the installation process work and how long does it take?
Ground screws are installed using specialized equipment with minimal site disruption. Each screw takes about 10 minutes to install. Most projects are completed in a few hours or one day.
Can ground screws be installed year-round and in different soil conditions?
Yes, ground screws can be installed in all seasons, including winter (including through frost), and are engineered for a wide range of soil conditions.
Do ground screws replace concrete footings, and are they durable?
When properly engineered and installed, ground screws actually can support more weight than concrete pads or piers. The galvanization on ground screws protect against corrosion, and come with a 25 year guarantee (concrete nor wood comes with any guarantee).
Can homeowners or DIY users install ground screws themselves?
DIY installation is absolutely possible with our handheld e-driver, a tool about the size of a jackhammer. We rent these and can ship them to you.
What documentation is provided for permits and inspections?
We provide stamped drawings, engineering data, load charts, installation guides, and code references to support permitting and inspections.
How much does ground screw installation cost and how quickly can it be scheduled?
Pricing depends on project size and site conditions, and installation is typically scheduled within a few days. Installation for a deck, for example, is usually in the $350-$500 range.
How do I get started or become an installer or dealer?
You can request a quote or installation date through our website, or apply online to become a certified installer or authorized dealer.
What is the environmental impact compared to concrete?
Michigan Ground Screw ground screws have a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional concrete foundations. Installation requires no excavation, no curing time, and no water, which minimizes site disturbance, noise, and mess. Because there’s no concrete, you also avoid the high carbon emissions associated with cement production.
Ground screws are removable and reusable, making them ideal for temporary or relocatable structures and reducing long-term site impact. The surrounding soil remains largely undisturbed, helping preserve natural drainage and root systems.
Products
What projects can ground screws be used for?
Ground screws are commonly used for homes, decks, fences, additions, boardwalks, solar systems, and light commercial structures, amongst many other applications.
What sizes of ground screws are available?
Michigan Ground Screw offers multiple sizes, both varying by diameter and length, to match different load and soil conditions.
Are ground screws strong enough to replace concrete footings?
Yes, when properly sized and installed, ground screws provide equal or greater load capacity than concrete footings.
How much weight can a ground screw support?
The load capacity of a ground screw depends on soil conditions and the ground screw diameter. In many soils, individual screws can support thousands of pounds of axial load when properly engineered. Load capacities are listed in Table 5, Page 13 of the ICC-ESR-4226.
How long do ground screws last?
Ground screws are corrosion-protected and designed to last for decades in Michigan soil conditions. They come with a 25 year guarantee, but are quoted to likely last 75-300 years.
Can ground screws be removed or reused?
Yes, ground screws can be removed and reused, making them an environmentally friendly foundation option.
Installation
How long does installation take?
Most residential installations are completed in a few hours, often in a single day.
Can ground screws be installed year-round?
Yes, ground screws can be installed in all seasons, including winter.
Do ground screws require excavation?
No excavation or concrete pouring is required, which reduces mess and labor.
Can I install ground screws myself?
DIY installation is possible and we rent and ship equipment all across Michigan and Ohio for installation.
What equipment is used for installation?
Installation is done using specialized handheld equipment or hydraulic equipment for larger equipment such as stand-behind skid steers.
Will installation damage my yard or landscaping?
Minimal disturbance occurs compared to traditional concrete foundations. No earth is excavated during installation.
Do I need to have utilities marked?
Yes. Call 811 from anywhere in the country several days prior to installing your ground screws and your call will automatically be routed to your local one call center. Utility companies that have potential facilities in the area of your installation site will be notified of your intent to dig. Each affected utility company will send a locator to mark the approximate location of your underground utility lines. This typically occurs within 2-3 working days. It is recommended you install ground screws at least 18 inches from either side of marked lines, but follow your local laws.
Permits & Code
Are ground screws approved in Michigan?
Yes, ground screws are approved for use across Michigan when installed per engineering specifications. Our brand of ground screws, American Ground Screw, has both an ICC-ESR and statewide approval.
Do ground screws meet building code requirements?
Yes. Our screws comply with the IRC.
Are stamped drawings available?
Yes, stamped engineering drawings and load data are available.
Site-specific drawings are typically not required since our ground screws have both an ICC-ESR and Michigan statewide approval.
Will building inspectors accept ground screws?
Our ground screws have been installed in over 75 Michigan and Ohio counties and have been accepted by all building departments. This is because we provide to you and for building inspectors both the engineer-stamped ICC-ESR and the engineer-stamped Michigan statewide approval.
What frost depth considerations apply?
Two thirds of a ground screw's threads should be below the frost line to prevent heaving.
Can ground screws be used in poor soil conditions?
Yes, load testing and screw selection ensure performance in various soil types, and are shown in Table 5 of the ICC-ESR report.
Installers & Dealers
How do I become a certified installer?
You can apply on our website. Product, sales and installation training is provided.
What training is required for installers?
Training includes online coursework and hands-on, in-person installation training.
Do certified installers receive leads?
Yes, qualified leads are distributed through the Michigan Ground Screw website.
What support is provided to installers?
Installers receive technical support, documentation, and ongoing guidance.
How do I become a dealer?
Dealers can apply online and are approved based on territory availability.
Do dealers receive exclusive territories?
Yes, dealer territories are region-based and limited for market protection.
What benefits do dealers receive?
Dealers receive discounted pricing, marketing support, training, and product access.
Pricing & Lead Time
How much do ground screw installations cost?
Pricing depends on project size, screw type, and soil conditions.
Is ground screw installation more expensive than concrete?
In many cases, ground screws reduce total project cost by saving time and labor.
How soon can installation be scheduled?
Installation dates are typically available within a few days.
Are quotes provided before installation?
Yes, detailed quotes are provided before any work begins.
Do you offer bulk pricing?
Bulk and dealer pricing options are available for qualified partners.
What is the lead time for product orders?
Most products are available with short lead times, depending on inventory.
Are tool rentals priced separately?
Yes, tool rentals and sales are priced independently from material.
Is there a warranty on ground screws?
Ground screws are backed by a 25 year manufacturer warranty.
Can pricing change due to site conditions?
Final pricing may adjust if unexpected soil or access issues are discovered.
How do I request a quote or installation date?
You can submit a request through our website, and our team will follow up promptly.