Hollow Bar (SDA) vs. Threaded Bar for Tiebacks: When to Use Each
- Carlos A Valencia
- Dec 2
- 2 min read
Choosing between hollow bar (SDA) and threaded bar shouldn’t slow your job. This quick guide explains the practical differences for small-to-mid-size crews—so you can order faster, avoid delays, and keep budget under control. We support NJ/NY/CT/PA with quick quotes, flexible MOQs, and 1–3 day quick-ship on common items.
Quick comparison (what matters on site)
Hollow bar (SDA): drill + grout in one step; great for weak/loose soils and smaller crews; typically faster installation.
Threaded bar: conventional drilling; easy to cut/splice; wide hardware compatibility (couplers, nuts, plates).
Pro tip: If ground is inconsistent and crew size is tight, SDA often wins on speed. If the drilling is straightforward and you want maximum flexibility with hardware and lengths, threaded bar is a safe bet.
When to choose hollow bar (SDA)
Weak/loose soils where simultaneous drilling and grouting saves time
Small crews—fewer tool changes, simpler sequence
Fast starts: many common sizes can ship 1–3 days
Kit approach: bar + couplers + bits + accessories delivered togethe
Request a Micropile/Tieback Kit Quote (1–2 day ship)
When to choose threaded bar
Competent ground where conventional drilling is fine
On-site flexibility: cut-to-length, simple splicing with couplers
Wide hardware compatibility—matching nuts, plates, washers is easy
Lead time: many stock sizes can ship 1–3 days; specials vary
Sizing & coatings
Diameter / thread: send your detail or sketch—we’ll match it
Coatings: plain, galvanized, or epoxy (choose per exposure)
Compatibility: we confirm coupler threads and grade before shipping
Tieback kit checklist
Bars, couplers, nuts, bearing plates
Bits (for SDA), centralizers/spacers, grout tubes
Loads & testing notes (working and proof)
Need-by date, delivery window, site constraints (tight site, liftgate, AM slot)
Send Your Sketch — We’ll Match Hardware & Hold Today’s Price
Lead times & delivery for SMB jobs
Quick-ship: many common items 1–3 days
Delivery options: AM/timed windows, liftgate, tight-site friendly
Stock holds: we can hold price/stock briefly while you confirm
Value engineering ideas (save time/cost)
Swap coatings where exposure allows
Use cut-to-length to reduce field labor & waste
Standardize plate sizes to speed processing
FAQs
Do you accept small orders?
Yes—one-offs and mixed sizes are fine. We’re SMB-friendly.
How fast can you ship?
Common items can ship in 1–3 days. We can hold price/stock while approvals clear.
Can you match my hardware?
Yes. Share thread + grade (or a photo of your detail). We’ll match couplers, nuts, and plates.
Do you provide mill certs?
Yes—mill certs with heat numbers for traceability are available on request.
Can you help with testing requirements?
We align hardware and documentation to your
proof testing plan and inspector notes.
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