Construction & Contractors Blog
Homeowners looking to add a storey to an existing structure or want to repair a faulty foundation should consider the different types of underpinning. When it comes to repairing faulty foundations, any cracks wider than 3mm require underpinning.
There are different ways to undertake underpinning in your home or commercial building. Take note of a few highlighted in this guide.
Brackets and Screw Piles
This is a common underpinning method in instances where other underpinning processes aren't possible. If your building requires excavation to be undertaken to great lengths, the recommended underpinning method is the screw piles and brackets.
Screw piles are ideal for foundations that can easily withstand lateral and vertical wind forces. What makes this underpinning method advantageous over other pilling methods is that there is less vibration and it is easy to install.
The Beam and Pile Method
If you are looking for an underpinning method that causes minimal disruption and is quicker under restricted areas, then the beam and pile should be your first choice. In this method, you need to install mini-piles on both sides of the affected wall. Once the piles have been installed and the brickwork removed, the reinforced concrete can be used to support the wall and connect the pipes.
Piled Raft Underpinning
If your entire structure needs to be underpinned, the most ideal method is the use of a piled raft. However, if the foundation is too deep or the soil is hard, making it difficult to operate small equipment, you may want to consider other underpinning methods.
The advantage of this underpinning method is that it reduces disruption to your drainage system and is economical for depths greater than 1.5 meters.
Mass Pouring
This is a common underpinning method in many construction sites. In this method, small sections are excavated within the current section and the process repeated several times on the area being underpinned. Mass pouring is used with a reinforced retaining wall. In short, this is a foundation that is built under an existing foundation.
Whether you are planning to repair your damaged foundation or increase its depth, underpinning can do a lot to enhance the strength and stability of your basement construction. The decision on the type of underpinning to consider also largely depends on the surrounding structures and area as well as geographical location.
If you are looking to begin your underpinning, talk to a specialist in your area.
Share23 April 2020
When we moved into the house we had a really cute patio, but it was so small that if more than two people wanted to share a meal or sit together there wasn't room. That's why I have been extending the patio and working on ways to make it more hospitable for the whole family to spend time out there, such as getting the music system to connect to some speakers in the structure. This blog has some tips for homeowners who are looking to attempt a patio renovation or extension and has some tips on which jobs to DIY and when to call in the professionals.