Build Deep Foundations That Support Heavy Loads

Pile driving and bridge construction services for infrastructure projects in the Illinois Valley and surrounding areas.

When a structure needs support below unstable soil or must carry heavy loads from traffic or equipment, driven piles provide the foundation. In the Illinois Valley, pile driving involves using specialized equipment to hammer steel or concrete piles deep into the ground until they reach bedrock or dense soil layers that resist settlement. The work is loud and requires precise alignment, but the result is a foundation that does not shift or sink over time.

Gillan Construction LLC provides pile driving and bridge construction for municipal infrastructure, commercial developments, and industrial facilities. We drive piles to engineered depths, install pile caps and abutments, then build the bridge deck or structural platform that connects the spans. Each pile is driven to a specified bearing capacity, verified by monitoring hammer blows and penetration rates. The work follows structural plans and state bridge standards, with inspection at every phase before concrete is poured or steel is erected.

If your project in the Illinois Valley requires deep foundation work or bridge construction, contact Gillan Construction LLC to discuss site conditions and engineering requirements.

Driven Piles That Reach Stable Ground

After the site is cleared and the pile locations are surveyed, we position the pile driver and begin driving piles according to the structural drawings. In the Illinois Valley, soil conditions determine the type of pile and the driving method. Impact hammers or vibratory drivers are used depending on the material and the required load capacity. Each pile is checked for alignment and driven until it reaches the refusal depth specified by the geotechnical engineer.

Once the piles are in place, you will notice that the foundation does not settle or shift even under heavy loads. Pile caps are poured to connect groups of piles, and abutments or piers are built on top to support the bridge deck. The structure remains stable during freeze-thaw cycles and resists lateral movement from wind or traffic loads.

We use GPS and laser levels to verify that each pile is positioned within tolerance, and inspection reports document the driving sequence and final elevations. Bridge construction includes setting beams, forming the deck, and placing reinforcement before concrete is poured. The work does not include roadway approaches or pavement beyond the bridge structure itself.

What to Ask About Deep Foundations

Questions about pile driving and bridge construction usually focus on noise, ground vibration, and how the foundation is verified. These answers help you understand what happens during the work and how long it takes.

What type of pile is used for bridge foundations?
The most common types are steel H-piles and precast concrete piles, chosen based on load capacity, soil conditions, and driving equipment. The structural engineer specifies the pile type and size during the design phase.
How is the load capacity of a pile verified?
Load capacity is estimated based on the number of hammer blows per foot of penetration and confirmed with load tests if required. The pile must reach the depth and bearing capacity specified in the geotechnical report.
Why is pile driving so loud?
The impact hammer generates noise each time it strikes the pile to drive it deeper. Noise levels are highest during initial driving in hard soil or near bedrock, and hearing protection is required on site.
What is a pile cap and why is it needed?
A pile cap is a reinforced concrete block that connects multiple piles and distributes the load from the structure above. It provides a stable platform for abutments, piers, or columns.
How long does it take to build a bridge?
A small single-span bridge may take a few weeks after piles are driven, while larger projects with multiple spans can take several months. Weather, material delivery, and curing time for concrete all affect the schedule.

Gillan Construction LLC handles pile driving and bridge construction in the Illinois Valley with precision equipment and experienced crews who follow structural plans and state inspection requirements. If your project requires deep foundations or heavy civil infrastructure, reach out at (815) 559-2088 to discuss your site and engineering specifications.