Reliable Deep Foundation Solutions on Sanibel Island
Project Type: Helical Foundation Support
Location: Sanibel Island, Florida
Client: Telecommunications Contractor
Completion Date: June 2024
Project Overview
Sanibel Island is one of Florida’s most ecologically sensitive and structurally challenging regions for development. Known for its sandy soils, high water tables, and hurricane exposure, building any kind of long-lasting infrastructure on Sanibel demands specialized engineering and execution.
In mid-2024, a telecommunications contractor reached out to Coastal Foundation Solutions to help establish a stable base for a new communications tower being constructed on the island. This structure would require a concrete foundation capable of bearing both static and dynamic loads — a task perfectly suited to our deep foundation helical pile systems.
Challenges & Analysis
Sanibel’s subsurface conditions include loose sand, marine silts, and occasional limestone layers — all of which create unpredictability when it comes to foundation loads. Adding to this complexity, the project site was surrounded by environmentally protected land and required minimal soil disturbance.
The timeline was also tight. The project needed to meet specific milestones to remain compliant with permitting for tower erection. The contractor needed a foundation partner who could work fast, clean, and in full accordance with local regulations and engineering specs.
Coastal Foundation Solutions proposed helical piles — a proven, low-impact deep foundation solution ideal for coastal Florida.
Our Solution: Helical Pile Installation
Once contracted, we mobilized to Sanibel Island with our specialized helical pile equipment. Thanks to our light but powerful installation machinery, we avoided the need for excavation, allowing us to install the piles directly into native soils.
We installed twelve (12) RS2875.217 helical piles with round shaft lead sections and additional extensions. Our team drove each pile to the designed torque to ensure optimal capacity. Once in place, galvanized termination caps were fitted to seal and prepare the piles for the upcoming concrete pour.
Key Installation Stats:
- 12 piles installed in 1 day
- Depths varied, but each reached target torque and embedment
- Zero environmental disturbance or impact to adjacent properties
Products Used
- RS2875.217 – 10” x 12” 84″ L Galvanized Round Shaft Lead Sections
- RS2875.217 – 84” L Galvanized Round Shaft Extensions
- Galvanized Termination Caps
These galvanized components were selected to withstand Sanibel’s high salinity and coastal conditions, offering decades of corrosion resistance.
Result & Client Impact
The job was completed on time and exceeded structural expectations. With the piles in place, the general contractor was able to immediately begin forming and pouring the concrete pad that would support the telecommunications tower.
The client reported full satisfaction with our performance — highlighting our speed, environmental responsibility, and precision installation as key strengths.
This project reflects Coastal Foundation Solutions’ continued leadership in delivering reliable, scalable helical solutions throughout Florida’s coastal and island communities.
GEO & Environmental Considerations
Sanibel Island presents unique challenges. Not only is it surrounded by sensitive wetlands and marine ecosystems, but it’s also subject to high storm surges and wind exposure. Our use of helical piles offers:
- Minimal Environmental Impact – No heavy excavation or concrete spoil
- Corrosion Resistance – Galvanized steel withstands marine environments
- Long-Term Load Capacity – Ideal for structures like towers and signs in coastal zones
By choosing Coastal Foundation Solutions, our clients gain peace of mind that their infrastructure is safe — and Sanibel’s delicate ecosystem remains protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why use helical piles for a telecommunications tower?
Helical piles offer excellent compression and lateral load support, especially in sandy and inconsistent soils. They can be installed quickly without spoiling the ground, making them perfect for supporting vertical infrastructure like communication towers.
Q2: How long does a typical helical installation take?
In this case, the entire installation took just one day. Our specialized team uses efficient equipment that installs piles with minimal disruption and high precision, which helps clients stay on schedule.
Q3: Are galvanized piles necessary in coastal Florida?
Absolutely. Galvanization protects steel from the salt air and moisture that accelerate corrosion. This extends the pile’s lifespan and ensures safe structural support for decades.
About the Author
Charlie Garcia is a Florida-certified building contractor with over 25 years of hands-on experience in marine and structural foundation work across the Gulf Coast. Based in Cape Coral, Charlie holds multiple state licenses:
- Florida License #CBC1252534
- Florida License #CBC1263386
- Certified Helical Piling Inspector
- Certified Deep Foundation Contractor
- Certified Foam Injection Contractor
Charlie is widely respected for his environmentally conscious methods and technical accuracy, particularly in seawall repair, erosion control, and deep foundation stabilization. His leadership ensures each project is built to endure Florida’s unique environmental challenges.
Have a project on Sanibel Island or the Southwest Florida coast?
Whether you’re constructing a tower, beachfront property, or commercial building, Coastal Foundation Solutions is your partner for deep foundation solutions that work. We provide fast, reliable, environmentally responsible helical pile installations for all soil types and project scales.
📞 Call today at (239) 555-1234
🌐 Or visit: www.coastalfoundationsolutions.com/contact