Underpinning - Our Process
Step 1: Quoting & Evaluation – Accurate Assessments for a Clear Path Forward
We begin with a full inspection of your property to create a precise, detailed quote. Our evaluation covers your existing foundation, any signs of settling or movement, and the surrounding soil conditions. The quote will also include any engineering and inspection fees. We use advanced digital levelling tools to identify uneven areas and establish a clear strategy for reinforcement.
Step 2: Preparation & Lifting – Securing Your Structure Before Work Begins
Once you approve our proposal, we prepare the site to ensure safe and stable access to the foundation. In some cases, we use jacks to lift parts of the structure slightly, securing the building before the underpinning process begins.
Step 3: Digging Pits – Precision Excavation for Lasting Stability
This is one of the most critical phases of underpinning. We dig specific pits beneath the foundation, each strategically positioned to provide maximum support. These pits are carefully measured and inspected by an independent building inspector to ensure they meet the required depth and width standards.
Step 4: Strengthening the Foundation – Reinforcing for Maximum Stability
Once the pits are ready, we pour concrete into each one to reinforce and stabilize the foundation. This step forms new "underpins" that support your building’s weight, creating a more secure and resilient foundation.
Step 5: Gradual Lowering – Allowing the Foundation to Settle Naturally
After the new supports are in place, we gradually lower the structure back down, allowing it to rest on the freshly reinforced foundation. This careful process helps prevent future shifting and settling, giving you confidence in the long-term stability of your building. More support maybe require elsewhere in the home - see the case study as an example)
Step 6: Finishing & Final Inspection – Ready for the Future
With the underpinning complete, we backfill each pit and clear the area, leaving it tidy and ready for a final building inspection. This final step verifies that everything is secure, solid, and up to code.
Additional Services: Foundation & Structural Repairs
If we find that other areas of your structure need repairs or strengthening during the underpinning process, we can handle these updates as an additional service. This may include reinforcing walls, floors, or adjacent structures, restumping and deck replacement. We’ll provide a separate quote for any additional work.
