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Types of Underpinning

What Are The Types of Underpinning?

The simplest way to define underpinning is a method used for repairing and strengthening the bearing capacity of the foundations of a house or structure. There are different methods of underpinning a house which are explained below. Underpinning specialists choose an ideal method depending on a number of factors such as the site, the soil characteristics, cause of settlement, and the underpinning costs for each method etc.

Concrete Slab Underpinning

It is a traditional underpinning method that uses concrete footings to strengthen the existing footings. Usually, it is recommended when there is house subsidence which requires additional support from firm strata. The process is aimed at preventing further damage while restoring the house to its former level. It is important to act soon to prevent the worsening of the current foundation problem common when underpinning Melbourne homes.

Screw Pile Underpinning

The screwpile underpinning method, commonly referred to as helical piers or helical anchors, uses steel tubes with a screw head to support the foundation of a house by screwing into firm ground. The screwpile is driven into the ground until it reaches a stronger subground. The piles are encased in concrete, and then support the house restumping jacks to lift and support the foundation by transferring the load to the pile sunk into the ground. Here are some of the benefits of using screwpile method when underpinning Melbourne homes:

  • Effective at reaching firm soils 
  • It has a quick installation time allowing for loads to be applied immediately
  • Minimises ground vibrations
  • Minimal disturbances with limited waste 
screwpile in concrete underpinning Melbourne

Jet Grouting

Jet Grouting, also known as low mobility grouting, is a soil reinforcing technique which improves the quality of unsuitable soils, enabling them to support foundations of houses. It uses high pressure grout which is pumped into the ground, displacing and compacting any surrounding soils. This increases the bearing capacity of the foundation underpinned.

Geo-polymer Resin Injection

This is a newest method of ground stabilisation which is used as an alternative to the traditional underpinning Melbourne has been used to. Resin is injected into the ground following a path of least resistance. It fills any gaps in the foundation, hardening into a firm subground. One of the disadvantages is that if the solution doesn’t work, you cannot use concrete underpinning. Taking such a risk is not necessary when there are ideal alternatives with less associated risks.

What to consider when looking for an Underpinning Contractor

When you’re planning on starting an underpinning project, always do research to hire the right underpinning specialists for the project. Here are some of the tips to help you hire the best underpinning contractors Melbourne in your area:

  1. Interview Multiple Contractors – don’t take the advice of one contractor. Always enquire from various underpinning specialists to get a picture of the scope of the project, and most importantly, you can ask questions.
  2. Check for Reviews and Past Experience – always check for the reputation of the underpinning contractors Melbourne residents have hired. Always choose those reputable underpinning specialists for your project. Remember that a good reputation is the key. 
  3. Check for Communication Skills – when selecting the contractor, strike a balance between technical and communication skills. In the end, you need a contractor you can easily talk to during the course of the project.

Does your foundation need repairs? Contact us today for all your Melbourne underpinning projects. Our underpinning specialists have years of house levelling Melbourne in places like Mount Eliza, Williamstown, Brunswick, to name a few. We contribute towards Melbourne restorations.