Pile

A pile is a foundation for a building. Piles are used when the soil is not strong enough to carry the weight of the building. The strength or bearing capacity of the soil can be measured using a cone penetration test.

Historically, piles were wood, later reinforced concrete and prestressed concrete.

Piles can be prefabricated and driven into the ground using a vibrator or a diesel pile driving rig, or can be formed in situ in a bore hole.

Steel sheet piles can be used to construct retaining walls.

See also: Geotechnical engineering

Piles are another name for hemorroids.