How to Fix Subsidence

Subsidence is every property owner’s worst nightmare, whether you own a domestic or commercial building. The consequences can be destructive, expensive and disruptive if left untreated. In this article, we’ll be telling you what subsidence is, what causes it, the signs to look out for and how to fix it in a way that is mess and hassle-free. Here’s how you can deal with issues of subsidence.

What is subsidence?

Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a property, structure or building sinks, normally pulling the foundations down with it. As such, the walls and floors of the structure on top will move, causing the property to noticeably lean to one side, eventually. While this can depend on the severity of the subsidence, it could occur if left untreated, resulting in the eventual collapse of the property, in the worst cases. Generally, it destabilises the property and underpinning will then be required to restore strength to the ground. 

What causes subsidence?

Subsidence can be caused by a wide range of factors. While not all of them are avoidable, you must be aware of the risk factors involved so that you can be on the lookout for signs of subsidence, which is something we’ll be getting onto in a moment. For now, here are a few things that can increase your risk of subsidence:

• Clay soil shrinkage – clay soil expands and contracts as it becomes wet and then dries out. This causes the soil to move and foundations to shift 
• Tree roots – tree roots extract water from the ground, causing soil shrinkage and ground movement in the process. Roots can also penetrate brickwork and foundations, weakening them even further
• Poor or compromised foundations – foundations that are old, damaged or poorly built will make your property susceptible to subsidence
• Mining – properties built over former mines are susceptible to subsidence due to the possibility of sudden collapse as a result of large gaps and voids underground
• Heavy traffic – heavy, constant traffic right outside your home can cause foundations to rumble, crack and weaken

What are the signs of subsidence?

It can be challenging to know when subsidence is affecting your property, more so when it’s in the early stages. However, if any one of the following signs appear, especially in combination with each other, then it’s likely that subsidence is the issue at play. However, it’s always a good idea to call a professional subsidence firm, such as us here at Geobear, to confirm the issue for you.

We recommend dedicated subsidence surveys and investigations, used to assess your property. Using that data with our video assessment, we then  provide you with a proposal of recommendations and a solution if subsidence has been confirmed as the problem. In the meantime, you should keep a close eye on the interior and exterior of your property for the following signs:

• Cracks in walls, floors and ceilings
• Doors and windows become difficult to open or close
• Ripples in wallpaper
• Extensions coming away from the rest of the house
• The property is noticeably leaning to one side

How to fix subsidence: the geopolymer resin injection underpinning method

The geopolymer resin injection method is a new and innovative underpinning technology that Geobear has to offer. It provides benefits and results that traditional underpinning methods just can’t offer. But what is the geopolymer resin injection method, and how advantageous is it, exactly, when compared to conventional subsidence solutions?

What is the geopolymer resin injection underpinning method?

Our innovative subsidence solution involves injecting the ground via small holes with geoopolymer resin for a non-disruptive way of strengthening the ground and the foundations that our property sits on. It helps to keep mess to a minimum while providing an effective subsidence solution simultaneously. As the resin is injected into the ground, it will push its way through the gaps and voids in the ground, expanding and hardening as it goes along. It aims to restore stability to once weak ground, therefore lifting the foundations without the need for any excavation. 

What are the benefits of the geopolymer resin injection underpinning method?

The geopolymer resin injection method is an innovative underpinning technique that, when compared to conventional underpinning methods, is non-invasive, clean and efficient. But why else should you choose the geopolymer resin injection technique over more traditional underpinning methods? Here are the benefits of the geopolymer resin injection method:

Benefits of the geopolymer resin injection underpinning method

• No disruption to everyday life – this method is a quick and mess-free way of restoring strength to the ground. It allows you to go about your everyday life, almost as if our team aren’t there
• It’s completely mess-free – no excavation is needed. You won’t have to think about clearing up the mess or making your garden look as though it was untouched. Excavation can be extremely messy, depending on the case
• It’s a fast solution – traditional underpinning methods are a huge job, often requiring heavy machinery. In comparison, the geopolymer resin injection method can be executed in a more timely and efficient manner
• It provides long-lasting results – the geopolymer resin will expand and harden as it fills underground gaps and voids. This restores strength and stability for decades to come. You won’t have to worry about bringing in a subsidence solution for a generation
• We have complete control – injecting the ground is a precise and meticulous method. We’ll have far more control when compared to traditional types of underpinning and subsidence solutions. This means that the resin will go where it needs to, without causing further damage 
• It’s an eco-friendly underpinning method – as no excavation is required, the ground won’t be disturbed. We won’t need to rip up grass or chop down trees to inject the ground with geopolymer resin. We aim to protect the wildlife and ecosystems with our geopolymer resin injection underpinning method

Geobear is pleased to provide customers throughout the UK with subsidence solutions by way of innovative geopolymer resin injection technology. We’re changing the face of underpinning with this non-disruptive, mess-free underpinning method. Whether you have a domestic or commercial property, we’ll be on hand to help you rectify issues of subsidence. If you would like further information, get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today – we’re always happy to hear from you.