If you are in the process of building a house or looking to renovate it, chances are you have heard the word “underpinning” thrown around a lot. But, what exactly is it? Do you really need to invest in it? We cover exactly that in this article. Keep reading to know more.
What Is Underpinning?
Underpinning is a process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of a building. This is done by excavating soil beneath the foundation and replacing it with stronger materials, such as concrete or steel. As a result, the foundation of the building is made deeper and wider, offering more stability and support.
Moreover, it is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the building remains stable throughout the process. It uses a number of methods, such as classic mass concrete underpinning, mini-piled underpinning, and beam and base underpinning.
Types Of Underpinning
With advancements in technology, different types of underpinning methods have emerged:
- Concrete slab: The process comprises extending the old foundation up to a secure layer. The soil beneath the current foundation is meticulously dug using stages or pegs.
- Screw Pile: A screw pile is used to secure and lift the building back to its original place while also filling in any cracks and gaps.
- Grout or resin injection: It is the most modern technique, though not quite an underpinning. By filling in any holes under the slab, injecting glue or grout into the ground causes it to expand and compress.
Advantages Of Underpinning
Enhanced Structural Stability
The main advantage of underpinning is that it strengthens a building’s foundation, increasing its structural stability. The soil underlying a structure may change over time, weakening the foundation and perhaps resulting in structural failure. By establishing a wider and deeper base for the building to rest on, underpinning strengthens the foundation.
Increases Property Value
By strengthening the foundation of a building through underpinning, the value of the property is likely to increase. Potential buyers are more likely to invest in a property with a strong foundation, knowing that it will require fewer repairs and maintenance.
Allows For Building Additions
Underpinning can be used to support the addition of extra floors to a building or to extend the basement, allowing for more usable space within the property. This can be particularly beneficial for property owners who want to expand their living or workspace but are constrained by the existing foundation.
Cost-Effective
Underpinning can be more cost-effective than rebuilding a foundation from scratch. In many cases, underpinning can be completed with minimal disruption to the occupants of the building and can be completed in a shorter time frame. This makes it a more affordable and less disruptive option for property owners who want to strengthen their foundation.
Improves Safety
A building with a weak foundation is at risk of collapse, which can cause significant damage and injury. Underpinning ensures the safety of the building and its occupants, providing peace of mind for property owners and tenants.
By strengthening the foundation, underpinning eliminates the risk of structural failure and provides a more secure living or workspace. This is particularly important for older buildings that may have a weaker foundation due to age and wear and tear.
If you are looking for a good underpinning company in British Columbia, contact Atlas Piling and Drilling Inc. They are the trusted name for underpinning and are renowned as the best drilling company in BC, British Columbia.
Their highly qualified team has the necessary experience, understanding, and technical know-how to build foundation underpinning systems reliably and safely on all foundation types and in the most difficult ground conditions.
