Underpinning prevents structural damage caused by water, particularly in areas prone to flooding or with high water levels. This method protects the foundation of a building from water infiltration, which can weaken it over time. Discover more?

Water damage can be prevented by underpinning, which is often associated with foundation repairs. The foundation is widened or deepened to reach soil strata with less moisture variation. It is important to do this in areas with unstable soil, as expansion and contraction of the soil can damage structures. By putting a foundation on more stable, deep ground, soil movement issues are reduced.

In order to control water flow beneath and around the foundation, waterproof barriers or drainage systems may be installed. These systems divert the water away from the foundation to prevent pressure which can lead to fractures and instabilities. A proper drainage system is important to manage water levels, and prevent foundation weakness.

Water management strategies that are based on strategic underpinning can help preserve older structures or historical buildings where traditional waterproofing methods would be visually intrusive or structurally impossible. The underpinning of a building allows for modern water management, without compromising the aesthetics or historic integrity. It protects historic structures from damage caused by water and increases their value.

It may be more cost-effective to design a structure from the beginning with underpinning. Underpinning may cost more initially, but it prevents costly water damage. Underpinning is a great financial option for property owners or developers who anticipate concerns about water management.

Installation of underpinning requires considerable thought and expertise. Geotechnical engineers analyze soil characteristics to determine the depth and type of underpinning. A lack of understanding about soil conditions can lead to an underpinning method that is ineffective and fails to address water-related environmental concerns.

During the underpinning phase, engineers and construction experts must collaborate to assess all water management components. It includes the underpinning of the building and the installation water management systems such as sump pumps, French Drains or other tailor-made solutions to deal with the site’s specific dynamics.