How to Build Raised Walkways and Boardwalks Using Ground Screws
Raised walkways and boardwalks are widely used in parks, nature reserves, coastal areas, commercial developments and public spaces. They provide safe access over uneven, soft or environmentally sensitive ground while preserving the landscape below.
Choosing the right foundation is critical to the success and longevity of these structures. In this guide, we explain how raised walkways and boardwalks are built using ground screws, and why they are increasingly preferred over traditional concrete foundations.
Why Foundation Choice Is Crucial for Walkways and Boardwalks
Raised walkways are often installed in challenging environments such as wetlands, woodland, dunes or sloping terrain. These locations present issues including poor ground conditions, limited access and environmental constraints.
Traditional concrete foundations can be slow, disruptive and difficult to install in such settings. Ground screws provide a practical alternative, offering strength and stability while minimising disturbance to the surrounding area.
What Are Ground Screws?
Ground screws are steel foundation systems that are mechanically driven into the ground. Instead of relying on concrete mass, they transfer load into the soil through friction along the shaft and bearing from helical plates.
This method makes ground screws particularly effective for lightweight and medium-weight structures such as raised walkways and boardwalks, where multiple foundation points are used to evenly distribute loads.
Designing a Raised Walkway with Ground Screws
The design of a raised walkway or boardwalk typically consists of vertical support posts, horizontal beams and a decking surface. Ground screws act as the anchor points for the vertical posts, holding the entire structure securely above ground level.
Spacing and depth of ground screws are determined by the walkway’s width, expected foot traffic, environmental exposure and ground conditions. When designed correctly, this approach provides excellent stability without the need for excavation.
Installation Process Using Ground Screws
Installing ground screws for a raised walkway is a straightforward and efficient process. The screws are driven directly into the ground using handheld or mechanical equipment, depending on site access and soil conditions.
Because there is no digging or concrete pouring, installation is fast and clean. Once the screws are installed to the required depth and torque, they are immediately load bearing, allowing the walkway structure to be fixed in place without delay.
This makes ground screws ideal for projects with tight timelines or restricted working windows.
Building on Sensitive or Difficult Ground
Many raised walkways are built specifically to protect sensitive ground beneath them. Ground screws excel in these environments because they cause minimal disturbance during installation.
The soil is displaced and compacted rather than removed, preserving root systems, habitats and natural drainage. This makes ground screws well suited to nature reserves, coastal boardwalks and conservation areas where environmental impact must be kept to a minimum.
Structural Stability and Load Transfer
Raised walkways must safely support pedestrian loads, occasional maintenance equipment and environmental forces such as wind. Ground screws transfer these loads deep into stable soil layers, providing reliable long-term performance.
Because the load is spread across multiple foundation points, stresses are evenly distributed along the structure. This reduces the risk of settlement or movement, even on softer ground.
Durability in Outdoor Environments
Ground screws used for walkways and boardwalks are typically manufactured from galvanised steel, designed to resist corrosion in outdoor conditions. This makes them suitable for long-term exposure in damp, coastal or woodland environments.
Unlike concrete, ground screws are not affected by cracking due to freeze–thaw cycles and do not degrade the surrounding ground over time.
Flexibility and Future Modifications
One of the key advantages of ground screws is flexibility. If a walkway layout needs to be extended, altered or removed, ground screws can often be reused or repositioned.
This is particularly valuable for public access routes and temporary installations, where future changes are likely. Removing ground screws leaves the site largely intact, avoiding the legacy issues associated with concrete foundations.
Why Ground Screws Are Ideal for Raised Walkways and Boardwalks
Ground screws provide a reliable foundation solution that supports safe access while protecting the environment below. Their speed of installation, adaptability to difficult ground and long-term durability make them a natural fit for walkway and boardwalk construction.
For designers, contractors and landowners, they offer confidence that structures will perform well without unnecessary impact on the surrounding area.
Contact The Ground Screw Shop
If you’re planning a raised walkway or boardwalk project and need expert advice on foundations, The Ground Screw Shop is here to help.
Our team can advise on ground screw selection, spacing, load requirements and installation for raised walkways and access structures. Contact us today to discuss your project.