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The foundation underpinning procedure is used to repair foundations that are experiencing issues. Masonry rectification solution underpinnings are usually performed to correct differential settlement. A foundation can sink unevenly in the ground. This can result in structural damage. The foundation underpinning will raise that part of the structure again.

What causes differential settlement?

Different factors, among them the following ones, can lead to differential settlements:

The soil under the house will move as a result. It can cause soil to move under your house, which, in time, may lead to differential settlement.

-Erosion prone soil. Soil that’s prone for erosion is likely to wash away leaving holes under your foundation. The foundation will settle differently if it sinks down into the voids.

Thirsty Tree Roots – Looking for water, tree roots can “drink” soil moisture leaving behind holes.

It is important to compact the soil before building anything on it. If you don’t do this correctly, your structure may settle into the soil after construction, causing differential settlement.

The soil on top of a mountain will slowly move downhill. The foundation can be affected by differential settlement, which may lead to structural damage.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, flooding, hurricanes and sinkholes are all capable of causing differential settlement.

The excavation next to the home’s foundation can cause it to shift and destabilize.

Improper drainage – It’s important to ensure that downspouts divert water from the house foundation. It is essential to install proper drainage around your house if you are experiencing foundation issues.

Why would a foundation need underpinnings?

The main reason behind underpinning, as we have already mentioned, is differential settlement. Underpinning a building’s foundation is not always necessary. Some other reasons are when adding a new story, renovating the house, or adding additions.

By installing piers on the perimeter of a foundation experiencing settlement, you can lift it up and level it. This will stabilize your foundation for many years.

How is Underpinning done?

There are two common methods for underpinning: helical and push piers. The decision on which method to use depends upon a variety of factors such as the weight of the building, the condition and size, etc. Installing push piers to the foundation is done by using the building’s weight. Helical pilings are drilled into the earth beneath the building, recorded, and then monitored. After the brackets have been attached to the house foundation, the helical piling is then installed. After the installation of the piers, any loads can be moved to them. If necessary, they can also lift. Helical Piers can be used to support new homes or additions as well as porches. They are installed to make sure that new foundations will not rest on clay, weak soil, etc.

Push Piers can be installed in the following ways:

To begin, excavate the area around the foundation down to its footing.

The foundation is reinforced by attaching heavy steel brackets at regular intervals to the underpinned area. These brackets support the piers.

The push piers will be driven deep into the earth using hydraulic force and the weight of the structure until they reach the bearing soil.

The piers will be attached to steel brackets once they are installed. A synchronized hydraulic system then raises the structure to the maximum level. It means that the building can be lifted as high as it is possible, without any damage.

Repair is completed when the excavated material is replaced.