Underpinning Foundations Methods: Techniques and Best Practices

High-quality materials, strength, and durability – these are the characteristics a foundation should have. A properly selected underpinning method will make buildings resistant to all external factors.

What is underpinning, and why do some houses need it? This is an important step to increase the strength and reliability of the structure or, if necessary, to expand the foundation. To achieve the goal, you should carefully consider the choice of underpinning method.

Usually, foundation strengthening is required due to subsidence and collapse, which is dangerous for the entire building. Its destruction is caused by:

• soil erosion;
• low-quality building materials;
• incorrect design;
• poor soil structure;
• construction of additional floors.

Depending on the specific requirements and condition of the building, there are many types of underpinning methods. Learn about the main underpinning Toronto service to choose the type of construction that’s right for you.

Mass Concrete Underpinning

It is also called the pit method of underpinning. First, separate areas (pits) are dug under the foundation and filled with concrete one by one, forming a stronger structure.

Cantilever Needle Beam Underpinning

Cast-in-place reinforced concrete beams resting on a concrete base, or piers transfer the load to more stable soil layers, allowing the foundation and walls to be reinforced.

Pier and Beam Underpinning

The foundation will consist of a series of piers. There are solid concrete blocks that are placed on top of the foundation to hold a lattice-like frame of wooden beams. The foundation creates a space between the ground and the house.

Mini-Piled Underpinning

Small-diameter steel or concrete Mini-Piles are drilled or pounded into the ground to transfer the load of the structure to more stable soil layers.

Pile method of underpinning

This method combines the use of piles and a reinforced concrete slab. The piles are driven into the ground and a concrete slab is mounted on top to evenly distribute the load on the pile foundation.

Pre-test Underpinning Method

The soil is compacted and compressed, which creates an additional load and makes it stronger. It is used for the construction of multistory buildings.

Resin Injection Underpinning

Resin is injected under the foundation, which has the ability to expand and fill all the voids, providing support for the structure and returning it to its original position.

Screw Pile Underpinning

Screw piles are screwed into the ground up to the supporting soil, which is able to support the load of the entire structure to be anchored. Using galvanized steel brackets, the piles are bolted to the foundation to prevent further movement.

Angle Piling

The wall is preliminarily reinforced with concrete piles, which are installed in pairs at opposite angles at a distance of 1 – 2 meters. The piles can be installed close to each other to increase the stability of the foundation.

Underpinning to Walls

Walls are divided into bays, each of which is treated separately to reduce damage and wall failure. The length of the purling between the walls can vary from 1 to 3 meters, depending on the type of foundation.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best underpinning method. After all, over time, the soil may sink, or the building may need to be expanded or reconstructed.

Assessing Soil Conditions

The quality of the soil plays a crucial role in the underpinning of a foundation, as it affects the strength and reinforcement requirements. Poor or unstable soil conditions may require extensive reinforcement measures.

Evaluating Structural Stability

If the building has been reconstructed in the past, or any other changes have been made to the construction, it is worth analyzing all of them. After all, the assessment of all changes can impact the excavation process.

Considering Building Load Requirements

It is important to assess the load capacity of the building, as this indicator will help to design additional foundations and determine the maximum load on them.

Determining Accessibility and Space Constraints

The size of the site, the location of the building, and the presence of heavy equipment can affect the feasibility of using different shoring methods.

Analyzing Cost and Budget Factors

Factors affecting the budget in construction:

• choice of materials;
• labor costs;
• additional equipment involved.

Find out our underpinning basement cost and get an additional discount.

At the preparatory stage, it is worth engaging experienced engineers to monitor the processes. Their recommendations will help to mitigate risks, address immediate needs, and optimize operations.

Understanding Local Regulations and Permits

Before starting work, it is critical to take the necessary safety measures, such as construction protection, familiarize yourself with local building regulations, and obtain all necessary permits.

Quality Age Build provides professional services for construction, foundation repair, external and internal basement waterproofing, etc. You get a team of experienced specialists who care about the quality of materials, the accuracy of work and the durability of your property.

Having familiarized yourself with the methods of underpinning in construction, you can choose the best one and significantly strengthen your foundation. Contact Quality Age Build for help, and we will be your ally and guarantor of the highest quality standards for your construction needs.