What Are the Different Types of Underpinning?

 Underpinning can be complex, depending on the method used and the severity of the subsidence case. There are a few different techniques available to subsidence specialists and underpinning engineers. The method chosen will depend on a number of factors, but there are some subsidence solutions that can be used for all subsidence cases, regardless of the size or shape of the building or the damage done by the subsidence itself. In this article, we’ll explain what underpinning is and the methods available, and we will go into more detail about the innovative modern underpinning technology available from Geobear.

What is underpinning?

Underpinning is a method used to rectify issues of subsidence. Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a structure’s foundations shifts or sinks, therefore causing structural damage to the building that sits on top. Subsidence will vary in severity, depending on how long it takes for action to be taken. But it can be stopped with the help of underpinning techniques. There are many different types of underpinning methods used to restore strength and stability to the ground and, subsequently, to the building’s foundations. So, what are the different types of underpinning methods available?

What are the different underpinning methods?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when subsidence issues hit. The type of underpinning method used will depend on a number of factors, from the age of the property to the depth of the original foundations. Once a subsidence survey has been carried out, a professional technician will advise you on the next steps, along with the most appropriate subsidence solution for the affected structure. But what are the different types of underpinning methods? We’ve detailed them below so that you can get a better understanding of the work that could be done to restore strength and stability.

Soil strengthening technique

A cost-effective underpinning method, this is carried out if the soil beneath a building’s foundations is weakened or absent. This technique is also known as soil stabilisation, and it can be done with a resin, which we’ll discuss in more detail later on in this article.

Mass concrete method

For the mass concrete underpinning method to be executed, pits are dug beneath the existing foundations of the structure. Those pits are then filled with concrete to create somewhat of a somewhat secondary foundation. It’s a method that is most suited to buildings that are sitting on originally shallow foundations. 

Beam & base method 

Similar to the above underpinning method, the beam and base technique is a more advanced underpinning technique. It involves using a reinforced concrete beam, which is placed below the current footings. It then works to transfer the load of the building across concrete bases. This enhances the overall stability of the structure.

Screw piles & brackets solution 

This is a quick and cost-effective subsidence solution. These are employed when conventional underpinning applications aren’t suitable. This is mainly because extensive excavation is needed. A trench is dug around the affected area and screw piles are pushed deep into the ground to act as an anchor point. The brackets are then attached, enabling the structure to be lifted into a level position

Geopolymer resin injection method 

An innovative underpinning technique that is mess-free, non-disruptive and highly effective, the resin injection underpinning method is a modern take on traditional subsidence solutions. This method is available from us here at Geobear, but what is the resin injection method, exactly? Let’s take a more in-depth look at the geopolymer resin injection underpinning method from Geobear.

Innovative underpinning technology from Geobear: The geopolymer resin injection method

The geopolymer resin injection underpinning method uses non-disruptive technology to restore your foundations to their original strength and stability. Save time and money with our geopolymer resin injection underpinning technology when compared to more traditional subsidence solutions.

How does the geopolymer resin injection method work?

The affected ground is injected with a geopolymer resin. The resin will be pushed along any gaps and voids that exist underground, beneath the foundations. It expands as it goes along, hardening and stabilising the soil to prevent further ground collapse. It’s both mess-free and non-disruptive to everyday life. In most cases, you’ll barely notice our engineers are there when delivering subsidence solutions by way of the geopolymer resin injection method.

What are the benefits of the geopolymer resin injection subsidence solution?

There are many advantages to the resin injection underpinning technique. Here are just a few reasons why you should opt for this particular underpinning technique over the others:

• Mess-free and non-disruptive – no excavation is needed, making it completely mess and hassle-free
• Fast solution – depending on the severity of the case, this underpinning method can be completed in just one day
• Designed to last – the results will last for a generation 
• Adaptable and functional – provides a new level of support to uneven slabs, with the ability to repair damages that occurred many years ago. It can be carried out on different buildings and structures, regardless of shape and size
• Fully-manageable – no reliance on hydraulic pressure, which can be uncontrollable, to an extent. We have far more control over the resin injection technique in comparison
• Strong structural capabilities – this patented technology from Geobear allows for massive lifting capabilities. This provides an effective suspension solution for even the most demanding of circumstances
• Architecturally friendly – only a small number of holes need to be drilled, depending on the case, to pump the resin into the voids and gaps, allowing it to be injected through floor coverings and furnishings when lifting the foundations through the ground when injecting isn’t feasible 
• Environmentally friendly – we don’t need to rip up grass or parts of your garden, or disturb animal and wildlife habitats to get the job done

Geobear is pleased to provide underpinning services to customers throughout the country. With our innovative resin injection underpinning method, strength and stability will be restored to your property without any mess or disruption. For further information about our subsidence solutions or to enquire about having a subsidence survey carried out, get in touch with us today – we’re always on hand to help.