What is a pier? How does that differ from a pile?
A. The two terms are often used interchangeably. A pier is defined as a deep foundation system that is used to support a structure. The weight of the structure is transferred through the pier to a stable soil mass or bedrock. A pile is a deep foundation system, consisting of relatively long, slender, column members driven into the ground (Steel, timber, reinforced concrete) that may terminate with a cap on top, referred to as a pile-cap.
