Imagine yourself sitting in the living room of your home, enjoying a hot cup of tea, when you suddenly see a crack creeping up the wall. Your heart skips. It could be that the foundation of your home is giving out. Underpinning, a technique for strengthening and stabilizing foundations, is the answer.
Let’s first discuss why foundations might be needed. Over time, structures settle. Sometimes, soil is not as stable underfoot as we would like. Other times, nearby construction and natural disasters may cause the soil to shift–literally. What should you do when the house begins to resemble an old-fashioned funhouse, complete with crooked floors and walls?
Underpinning means extending either the width or depth of the foundation, so that it can rest on more stable or even soil. Consider it as giving your house new sturdy shoes. There are different methods of underpinning. They all have their own unique quirks and advantages.
The mass concrete underpinning method has been in use since the dinosaurs, or at any rate since Victorian times. The concrete is filled in by digging sections under the existing foundation. Like patching old jeans, it’s easy but effective.
Next, there is beam and foundation underpinning. Imagine beams laid across weak points, and bases added under them to provide extra support. It’s like adding braces for wobbly crooked teeth. This method will spread the load across the structure more evenly.
The mini-piled system is for those that love the latest tech. These piles have a small diameter and are driven deep underground to reach the stable strata. Imagine tiny stilts beneath your home, supporting it.
Underpinnings are not always a breeze. This can be a messy process, similar to trying to bake a birthday cake and renovate your kitchen all at once! You will need to work with experts because a mistake could cause you even more problems down the road.
Let me share with you my friend Joe’s experience in underpinning the century-old cottage. Joe noticed that his old cottage doors weren’t closing properly. They were sticking more than Aunt Mabel’s Christmas fruitcake. After some thought and consultations, he decided to install mass concrete underneath.
Joe joked he thought he was living on an archaeological dig-site. But, once finished? It was like his cottage had never moved before! It was worth every cent spent.
Cost is important, but we can’t ignore it because, after all (if only!) money doesn’t just grow on the trees! Costs can vary depending on factors, such as the size or severity of damage to a building. But think of it more as an investment than an expense.
How can you determine which method is right for you? I guess it depends. The answer depends on several factors including the type of soil (clay versus sand), the extent and severity of settlement issues, etc. Thus professional advice is essential.
When faced with foundational troubles, remember that you are not alone. Many homeowners have already been through this journey; some may even share their stories with you over coffee if you’re nice enough to ask!
Proactive action will always win out over regrets that are brought on by inaction. The next time those annoying cracks show up, don’t panic. Call in experts instead who will help reinforce things efficiently without breaking the bank (or your back!) ).
But hey, even though foundations can be shaky at times, life can also feel wobbly. We still manage to stay upright despite the challenges we face…just like post-underpin houses!