Driven piles are the traditional stereotype pile whereby a preformed section is driven (generally by a large hammer but they can be vibrated) into the ground. The section is typically of precast concrete – Precast Driven Piles, steel tube or H section, or Timber.
Pre-cast concrete piles can be from stocks or made to order. Suitable lengths are jointed to ease their transport to the site and to avoid wastage.

Steel Tubes (tope driven tubes, thick wall tube) are often reclaimed tubing or drill casings from drilling operations, and whilst can be welded to form joints often utilise the treaded connections from their first use. They are often used when the ground conditions suggest the risk of damaging precast concrete piles is high.

Timber piles are now uncommon for buildings but are extremely suitable for some marine works and structures.