Service
Underpinning
Underpinning supports or strengthens the foundation of an existing house or structure. It is commonly considered when a section of footing has settled or the ground beneath it can no longer carry the load as intended.
Underpinning excavations along the wall line
What it involves
- 1Reinforcing the existing foundation where it has lost support.
- 2Extending the foundation so the load is spread over a greater area or deeper, more stable ground.
- 3In some situations, strengthening the soil beneath the footing.
- 4Working in staged sections so the structure stays supported throughout.
When it may be appropriate
- Cracking in brickwork, often stepped or wider at one end.
- One part of the house has dropped relative to the rest.
- Ground conditions have changed — for example after leaks, drainage problems or nearby excavation.
These signs can have other causes too — an assessment confirms what's going on.
How the scope is set
The right method depends on the soil, the footing type and how the house has moved. Where engineering input is required, it forms part of determining the scope before work begins.
From our projects
Excavation beneath an existing footing
Temporary props supporting a brick wall during works
A cleanly cut underpinning excavation
Related services
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