The Importance Of A Stable Foundation
Underpinning is a process used to strengthen and stabilise the foundations of a building. The structural techniques we employ are especially important for older buildings or homes built on unstable soil.
Over time, various factors like soil movement, water damage, or poor original construction can weaken a building's foundation. This weakening can lead to cracks in walls, uneven floors, or even structural risks if not addressed.
When a foundation is no longer stable, underpinning can be used to reinforce it. The process involves digging under the existing foundation and adding new, stronger materials to increase its depth or width, allowing it to better support the building above.
The new supports, often concrete, steel, or a combination, are placed strategically to hold up the structure and prevent further settling or shifting.
In Australia, underpinning is often required in older buildings built in areas with clay soils, which can expand and contract with moisture changes, causing foundations to move. It’s also useful for homes that have been affected by drought, as dry conditions can lead to soil shrinkage, weakening the foundation.
The underpinning process can be complicated and should always be done by professionals who understand soil behaviour, local building regulations, and safe methods for supporting structures. The goal is to stop any further movement, make the building safe, and prevent issues from worsening over time.
Once completed, underpinning helps restore stability to a home, extending its life and providing peace of mind to homeowners.
Contact Us Today
Indications That Your Home May Need Underpinning
EXTERNAL ISSUES:
- Foundations with visible cracks
- Outside walls with cracks or uneven joins
- Rooflines that seem to droop
- Decks and balconies that tilt or slope away from the house
- Misaligned or uneven gutters
- Downpipes that no longer align straight
- Wooden stumps showing signs of rot or damage
INTERNAL ISSUES
- Doors that jam or don’t close smoothly
- Floors that squeak, flex, or have a noticeable slope
- Cracks or separations in walls or along the skirting
Undepinning In The Greater Geelong Area & The Surf Coast
Underpinning is important with older houses that may need restumping but also newer properties with concrete slabs. The concrete slabs often move and crack and this can affect the walls and roof. Its difficult to predict soil movement or how the weather will affect the underneath your home but getting it levelled as soon as possible will ensure the integrity of the structure.
In Geelong we are finding many newer homes are requiring underpinning as the soil has shifted for a variety of reasons.
Many times its not the whole house that needs attention but could easily be a corner area. This will need inspecting and evaluating to determine the best way of finding a solution that will last for years to come.
For Renovators
If you’re planning a renovation, underpinning is often a wise first step to create a stable and level foundation for your project. Starting with a solid base helps ensure that walls, floors, and structures remain aligned, making it easier to achieve quality, lasting results.
For Commercial Properties
We frequently work with businesses and institutions needing partial re-stumping, especially for areas like classrooms or offices where structural stability is essential. Addressing these issues promptly helps maintain safety and prevent further complications.
SERVICE GUARANTEED
We are based in Geelong so can give you a personalised service based on local knowledge and experience giving you and your family peace of mind with your biggest asset.
