Why Adjustable Brackets Are Transforming Ground Screw Installations

When it comes to ground screw installations, getting everything perfectly level is absolutely essential. 

That’s where adjustable brackets come into play – and they’re changing how builders, DIYers and trade professionals approach foundation work.

Ground screws have already proven themselves as a smart alternative to traditional foundations, offering speed and simplicity for everything from garden rooms to decking projects. 

Now, with the addition of adjustable bracket systems, these installations have become even more straightforward and precise.

In this article, we’ll explore how adjustable brackets are adding new features to ground screw installations. 

We’ll look at the different types of ground screw brackets available, their technical benefits, and why they’re an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Defining Adjustable Ground Screw Brackets

Ground screws are driven into the soil to create an instant foundation point. 

Normally, you’d mount your building’s frame directly to the top of these screws or a fixed bracket which attaches to them. But what if you need to make small adjustments to get everything perfectly level?

That’s exactly what adjustable brackets solve. They’re clever mounting systems that sit between your ground screw and your structure, consisting of:

• An adjustable cap bracket that fits onto the ground screw top
• A top plate you can adjust for perfect levelling
• Application-specific brackets (L-shaped for joists, U-shaped for posts, etc.)
• All mounting hardware included

These systems build on the existing strengths of ground screws while adding new possibilities for fine-tuning. 

When to Use Adjustable Brackets

Adjustable brackets are worth considering whenever getting a perfectly level foundation matters, or when performing small above-ground adjustments is otherwise advantageous for the build. 

While fixed brackets work well in many situations, adjustable options are particularly valuable in several scenarios:

1. Challenging Ground Conditions

When working on uneven ground, adjustable brackets let you achieve a level surface without excessive ground preparation. 

Rather than trying to get every ground screw installed at exactly the right height, you can make precise adjustments afterwards.

2. Larger Construction Projects

For larger builds like garden rooms or extensive decking, brackets make it much easier to align multiple points. This is especially helpful when matching the height of other structures, e.g. a garden room and an adjacent decking.

3. Precision Builds

Adjustable ground screw brackets are particularly valuable for projects where accuracy is key, such as when mounting Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) or precision-engineered garden rooms, where even small discrepancies can cause issues later in the build.

4. Time-Saving

Even for more straightforward projects like shed bases or fencing, adjustable brackets can save time and effort by eliminating the need for perfect ground screw installation depths. 

Instead, you can focus on achieving solid anchoring points.

How Adjustable Brackets Make Installation Easier

First and foremost, adjustable brackets help solve one of the biggest challenges in ground screw installation – getting everything perfectly level. 

Adjustable brackets change this entirely by adding a control point above ground. The bracket’s adjustment plate lets you raise or lower each support point in small increments.

This means if part of your structure needs lifting – whether it’s a garden room that’s slightly off-level or decking that needs perfect alignment – you can make those changes without touching the ground screws themselves.

Perfect Alignment 

Additionally, with standard brackets, you rely on the ground screw installation depth for your final height. 

Adjustable brackets put you back in control, as you can make the following adjustments above ground level:

• Raise or lower individual support points
• Correct any angles that aren’t quite right
• Level multiple points across larger structures
• Make adjustments at any point during the build

Long-Term Flexibility 

Unlike a concrete base, adjustable brackets offer the benefit of flexibility over time. 

If the structure is ever moved or reassembled, the brackets can be adjusted to suit the new conditions. This added adaptability makes them a practical choice for projects that may change or move in the future.

A Guide to Adjustable Bracket Options

Each type of adjustable bracket is designed for different building needs. Here’s a guide to some of the different types available at Ground Screw Centre (GSC):

Standard Adjustable Bracket System

GSC’s core adjustable bracket system works with all self-installation ground screws. It’s a straightforward solution for joist bases, letting you adjust the height easily to get the perfect level for your build.

 The L-shaped bracket fits all common joist sizes from 3″ to 6″ x 2″, making it versatile for most timber-based projects.

Ideal for:

• Shed bases
• Decking
• Garden rooms
• Summer houses
• A strong all-rounder

Square Top Bracket System

With its 150mm x 150mm surface area, the square top bracket system is perfect for double joist positions. 

Like the standard system, it works with all self-installation ground screws but provides a larger platform for more demanding builds.

Ideal for:

• Garden rooms
• Double joist positions
• Larger workshops
• Commercial builds

SIPS Panel Support Bracket

The SIPS Panel Support Bracket has been developed specifically for SIPS panel buildings, featuring the same generous 150mm x 150mm top plate. 

It’s compatible with all self-installation ground screws and allows fine adjustments and levelling without changing ground screw positions.

Perfect for:

• SIPS panel garden rooms
• SIPS buildings
• Summer houses with SIPS construction

Post ‘U’ Bracket

The Post ‘U’ Bracket adjustable system offers lateral adjustments to posts from 80mm to 110mm wide.

Like all the adjustable brackets, it’s compatible with self-installation ground screws.

Ideal for:

• Fencing
• Pergolas
• Garden structures
• Railings

View our complete range of fixed or adjustable brackets.

Common Installation Questions

When installing adjustable brackets, a few key considerations help ensure the best results for your project:

How Much Adjustment Do You Need?

Each adjustable bracket allows several centimetres of movement – more than enough for most projects. However, it’s worth checking the ground conditions before you start. 

While adjustable brackets can compensate for uneven ground, you’ll still want your ground screws installed as level as possible to make the most of your adjustment range.

When to Make Adjustments

The best approach is to level your ground screws during installation as usual, then use the adjustable brackets for fine-tuning. 

Once your structure starts going up, you can still make small tweaks – but it’s easier to level as precisely as possible from the outset. Many installers find it helpful to adjust in stages as the build progresses.

Working with Multiple Points

When you’re levelling across several ground screws, start from your highest point and work outwards. Use a long spirit level or laser level to ensure everything aligns correctly. 

Take your time with this stage – rushing the levelling process can lead to problems later in the build.

Ready to Get Started with Adjustable Brackets?

Adjustable brackets have transformed how ground screw installations work, making every project more straightforward and precise. 

They give you control over the final positioning of your structure, save considerable time on site, and ensure you can achieve perfect levelling even in challenging conditions.

Whether you’re planning a garden room, laying decking, installing fencing or working on a commercial build, there’s an adjustable bracket designed for your needs. 

Ground Screw Centre’s complete range of adjustable brackets suits every type of project, and our friendly team is ready to help you choose the right option for your build. 

We’ve helped thousands of installers and DIY enthusiasts get better results from their ground screw projects. 

With next-day delivery across the UK and a 20-year guarantee on all brackets, you can get started on your project sooner than you think.

View the bracket range here or contact us for more information.