Is Underpinning Sustainable?

Underpinning is an effective way of rectifying instances of subsidence, whether it be a commercial building or a domestic property. Here at Geobear, no project is too big or small for our team, but there are actually many different methods of underpinning, with some being more sustainable than others. In this article, we’ll be explaining what underpinning is, the different types of underpinning methods available and which ones are most sustainable if you want to keep your carbon footprint as low as possible. So, is underpinning sustainable? Let’s find out.

What is underpinning?

Underpinning is done to restore strength and stability to the ground and to the building that sits on top of it. It’s an effective subsidence solution, but there are many methods of underpinning on the market, with some being more disruptive and slow to execute than others. The different types of underpinning methods used are:

• Resin injection – the method used by Geobear, this is non-disruptive, mess-free and innovative. It requires no excavation but can still provide impressive, long-lasting results that will last for years to come
• Mass concrete – a popular underpinning method, it’s considered to be a more conventional underpinning solution. It involves filling gaps and voids found with concrete to restore stability and strength
• Mini piled – a method whereby pipes are installed under the existing foundation to support the structure above. It’s often used when soil quality is poor and deeper support is needed
• Cantilever beam & needle – a needle beam system is used to support the structure if the foundations are weak. It does this by strapping the original foundations to an existing column. A cantilever beam can also be used in its place
• Pile – piles are inserted into both sides of a wall to support the weak foundations underneath. This is often used when traditional underpinning methods cannot be used
• Beam & base – reinforced concrete beams are placed below the existing foundations. This is supported by mass concrete bases for good measure. It’s often considered to be more advanced than conventional underpinning solutions
• Pier & beam – support beams will rest on reinforced concrete posts, or piers, that are arranged in a way that evenly distributes the weight of the structure that sits on top. It’s also designed to stabilise the soil beneath

When is underpinning needed?

Underpinning is a specialist service that is only ever required when a property is succumbing to subsidence. Subsidence is when a structure begins to sink into the ground, therefore losing strength and stability in the process. If left, subsidence can cause serious structural damage to a building, rendering it uninhabitable in the most severe cases. The best thing to do is to catch the signs early so that underpinning can take place as soon as possible. Some of the signs to look out for when it comes to subsidence are as follows:

• Cracks in walls, floors and ceilings
• Cracks in exterior walls, running in a zig-zag pattern, along mortar lines
• Sinking or sloping floors and ceilings
• Doors and windows that cannot be opened
• Doors and windows that cannot be closed
• The property noticeably leans to one side
• An extension is moving away from the rest of the house

If you’re unsure about whether or not your property is affected by subsidence, then you should appoint professionals to take a look for you. Here at Geobear, we are proud to offer subsidence surveys and investigations. We will meticulously inspect your property for signs of subsidence. We will then conclude our findings with a written report, together with recommendations moving forward to make sure the problem is fixed, if indeed a problem is found. This is when underpinning will be suggested. But is underpinning friendly to the planet? Let’s take a closer look:

Is underpinning sustainable?

Traditional underpinning methods are not always considered to be sustainable. This is mainly because traditional underpinning methods require considerable excavation. Conventional underpinning can contribute to the carbon footprint, disrupt ecosystems and can be generally disruptive. 

Geobear invented a more eco-friendly underpinning method – the resin injection method. No excavation is required and disruption is kept to an absolute minimum. In addition, because no excavation is needed, we are not contributing to the size of the planet’s carbon footprint and nor are we causing ecosystems to breakdown or become disrupted or displaced. Read how Geobear releases 53% less carbon.

Soil disturbance is also minimal when using the resin injection method. By choosing Geobear for underpinning solutions, you can rest assured that you’re choosing a sustainable underpinning method. To conclude, traditional underpinning can be unsustainable, but our innovative underpinning technology is incredibly environmentally friendly.

Innovative underpinning technology from Geobear: the resin injection method

When a structure is suffering from subsidence, it’s imperative that underpinning is carried out as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse. Conventional underpinning methods often require excavation, which can be slow and messy. Therefore, don’t rely on those traditional solutions. Instead, choose Geobear to deliver innovative, modern subsidence solutions in the form of the resin injection method. We will inject the affected ground with resin. 

This will then work its way through any gaps and voids, hardening as it goes. This then restores strength and stability to the ground and the structure that sits on top of it. The injection method requires no excavation, making it mess-free. As such, this innovative underpinning solution is also non-disruptive, meaning you can go about your day-to-day life effortlessly, even while underpinning is taking place. This is one of several reasons why you should choose Geobear for subsidence solutions today.

Geobear is pleased to provide domestic and commercial clients with sterling subsidence solutions by way of the resin injection method. A highly effective way of rectifying subsidence, this innovative underpinning method is mess-free, non-disruptive and provides impressive, long-lasting results that will last for generations. If you would like further information about our underpinning solutions, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always happy to hear from you.