Advantages of using screw piles to create eco-trails

Ecotrails are specially designed routes through natural areas, created with minimal environmental impact. They allow tourists to enjoy the beauty of nature without disturbing its delicate balance. One of the most important elements in the construction of such trails are screw piles, which ensure structural stability and prevent soil erosion.

The Importance of Minimal Impact on Nature

When creating an eco-trail, it's essential to consider the importance of preserving natural landscapes and ecosystems. Traditional construction methods often disrupt ecosystems, causing soil compaction and damage to tree roots. However, the installation of screw piles minimizes these negative impacts while ensuring the strength and durability of the structure.

These safety standards are fundamental when constructing piers and wharves on screw pile foundations. Compliance with all requirements at every stage of the work ensures the structure will be reliable and safe.

Advantages of Screw Piles for Creating Ecotrails

1.       Minimal Interference with the Ecosystem. Using screw piles eliminates the need for extensive excavation work. Screw piles are installed without the need for large volumes of soil excavation, preserving the natural landscape and preventing soil erosion. This approach is especially important in nature reserves and other protected areas.

2.       Strength and Stability. Steel screw piles provide reliable anchorage for the ecotrail deck, making it resistant to loads and external conditions. Thanks to their anti-corrosion coating, these piles have a long service life and require minimal maintenance, significantly reducing operating costs.

3.       Design Flexibility. Ecotrails are often laid through challenging landscapes such as forests, swamps, and mountainous areas. Screw piles allow the structure to adapt to various soil types, ensuring its stability and safety under any conditions. This allows for projects to be implemented in areas with a wide variety of natural conditions.

4.       Quick and environmentally friendly installation. Screw pile installation is quick and has a minimal impact on the environment. This method requires no heavy equipment, minimizing the risk of damage to vegetation and soil. Furthermore, the speed of installation reduces construction time and allows for rapid commissioning of the ecotrail.

Stages of creating an ecotrail on screw piles

1.       Design and preparation. During the initial stage, a detailed site survey is conducted and an ecotrail design is developed. All natural features of the route are taken into account: topography, soil type, vegetation, and hydrology.

2.       Installation of screw piles. Double screw piles are screwed into the ground at predetermined points. The pile placement is determined by the landscape features and the expected load on the trail. This stage requires strict adherence to all technical and safety standards.

3.       Installation of decking and fencing. After the piles are installed, the ecotrail decking is installed, typically made of wood or composite materials that are moisture- and slip-resistant. If the design includes fencing, they are installed at this stage.

4.       Final inspection and handover. After all construction work is completed, a final quality control check of the structure is performed. The ecotrail must be safe, stable, and user-friendly. After a successful inspection, the route is opened to tourists.

Maintenance of Ecotrails on Screw Pile Foundations

To ensure the longevity of an ecotrail, regular inspection and maintenance of the structure is essential. It's important to check the condition of the steel screw piles, decking, and fastenings, especially in high-humidity areas. If the decking is made of wood, it should be periodically treated with protective agents. Regularly clearing the trail of debris and leaves also contributes to its safety and security.

Comments