Have you noticed cracks appearing in your property? These can be a telltale sign that underpinning may be required to either increase foundation depth or repair faulty foundations. Although some minor cracks may appear in a property due to natural settlement, the visible appearance of cracks wider than a ¼ inch is a good indication that the property requires remedial works.
Underpinning may also be required if you plan to add stories to an existing structure in order to increase the depth or load capacity of the existing foundations. It may also be required if the usage of the property has changed or the property is undergoing extensive renovations, for example a replacement roof that significantly differs from the original.
The simplest form is the mass concrete underpinning method (or Traditional underpinning). This method strengthens an existing structure’s foundation by digging boxes by hand underneath and pouring concrete in a strategic order. The final result is basically a foundation built underneath the existing foundation. This method is generally applied when the existing foundation is at a shallow depth, although the method also works at greater depths.
Underpinning works by extending the foundation in depth or in breadth so it either rests on a more supportive soil stratum or distributes its load across a greater area. Alternative underpinning methods to mass concrete underpinning include the use of micropiles and jet grouting.
At Mathew Allen Building Services we have undertaken projects addressing this issue, both in the UK and here in Cyprus. From residential to commercial properties we have the expertise to assess your property and carry out any necessary works.
If you feel that your property may require attention call Mathew Allen Building Services, we can give you an honest appraisal and recommend the best method to resolve your problems. As always we will provide a no obligation quote.
