Pilings are vertical supports driven into the ground to stabilize foundation slabs or beams. There are two main types of pressed pilings: concrete and steel. Concrete pilings consist of stacked concrete cylinders, offering durability and cost-effectiveness due to their resistance to corrosion.

Traditional steel pilings are driven deep into the ground to provide support; however, they can be costly and come with drawbacks.
In conventional installations, steel pilings are bracketed to the side of the home, offering no direct support beneath the foundation slab. This means the strength of the pier relies on the bracket's ability to bear the home’s weight.
A more recent approach involves installing steel piers directly beneath the perimeter grade beam, similar to pressed pilings. This method eliminates the need for bracketing, allowing the steel piers to support the home's weight more effectively and providing a more reliable foundation.

Spread footings are an economical, short-term solution designed to stabilize a pier by placing a concrete block beneath it to prevent further sinking. While they can provide temporary relief, they are not a permanent fix and will eventually require a more durable, long-term solution.