Residential underpinning is a term used in the construction industry that refers to the process of strengthening or stabilising the foundation of a building. This process is usually necessary when a building’s foundation becomes weakened or unstable due to various factors such as soil erosion, subsidence, or the addition of new floors. In this blog post, we will discuss what residential underpinning is, when it is required, and how it is carried out.
What is Residential Underpinning?
Residential underpinning is a process that involves excavating soil beneath the existing foundation of a building and adding a new support system to stabilise and strengthen the foundation. The underpinning process is done by carefully installing new piers or footings that are designed to support the weight of the building. These piers or footings are placed under the existing foundation, and the weight of the building is transferred to them. Once the new support system is in place, the soil around the foundation is backfilled, and the foundation is restored to its original position.
When is Residential Underpinning Required?
There are several reasons why residential underpinning may be necessary, such as:
- Foundation Damage: If the foundation of a building is damaged, it may become unstable and require underpinning to restore its stability.
- Soil Erosion: Soil erosion can occur due to various reasons, including water damage or changes in the natural environment, which can cause the foundation to become weakened.
- Building Expansion: If a building is expanded or renovated, the additional weight may cause the foundation to become unstable and require underpinning to restore its stability.
- Subsidence: Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a building sinks, which can cause the foundation to become unstable and require underpinning to restore its stability.
How is Residential Underpinning Carried Out?
The process of residential underpinning typically involves the following steps:
- Site Assessment: The first step in the underpinning process is to assess the site and determine the extent of the damage or instability of the foundation. A site assessment is usually carried out by a qualified engineer who will conduct a thorough inspection of the building and its foundation.
- Excavation: Once the site assessment is complete, excavation of the soil beneath the foundation begins. This is done to create space for the new support system.
- Installation of Support System: The new support system is then installed, which typically consists of piers or footings. The piers or footings are placed under the existing foundation and anchored to the bedrock or stable soil.
- Backfilling: After the new support system is in place, the soil around the foundation is backfilled. The backfilling is done in stages to prevent any movement of the foundation.
- Restoration: Once the backfilling is complete, the foundation is restored to its original position, and any necessary repairs or modifications are made.
Bottom-line
Residential underpinning is an essential process that is used to strengthen and stabilise the foundation of a building. It is typically required when a building’s foundation becomes weakened or unstable due to various factors such as soil erosion, subsidence, or the addition of new floors. The underpinning process involves excavating soil beneath the existing foundation, installing a new support system, and restoring the foundation to its original position. If you suspect that your building’s foundation may be unstable or damaged, it is crucial to seek the advice of a qualified engineer who can assess the site and recommend the appropriate course of action.
It’s time to see the specialists if you’re experiencing foundation problems with your Sydney home. Residential piling contractors in Sydney provide specialised, affordable solutions to reinforce and level your home’s foundation. They can swiftly manage all of your piling demands and guarantee that your property will be structurally solid for years to come thanks to their experience and cutting-edge machinery.
