Which Underpinning Method is Best?: The Geobear Solution

Underpinning has long been a method of subsidence repair and prevention, but did you know that there are many different methods of underpinning used, each one with its own advantages? But which one should you choose if subsidence hits? In this article, we’ll be explaining what underpinning is, when it’s needed, what the different methods are and which one you should choose as the property owner.

What is underpinning?

Underpinning is a method used to strengthen and stabilise the ground once subsidence has occurred. Subsidence is when the ground beneath a structure’s foundations shifts, taking the building with it. It can cause serious structural damage, especially if it’s left untreated. 

Underpinning has the sole aim of restoring the ground back to full and complete strength, preventing further structural damage on the property, as well as rectifying existing issues. Many subsidence solutions often involve excavating the ground to reinforce it with concrete. 

But did you know that there are many other methods of underpinning that a property owner can choose from? While we’ll be touching on the different underpinning methods used, let’s first find out when underpinning services are necessary.

When are subsidence solutions needed?

Underpinning is only required if your property is being affected by subsidence problems. As a homeowner, it can be difficult to pinpoint when your house is succumbing to subsidence, especially in the early stages. There are several signs of subsidence that you should be looking out for, whether you suspect subsidence or not. According to LV, 51% of homeowners in Britain struggle to identify subsidence signs. 

The same source also claims that around 4.4 million property owners don’t even know what subsidence is, let alone be able to identify the indicators. With this in mind, here are the signs of subsidence that you should be looking for, helping to determine whether or not underpinning services, using the Geobear solution, are necessary:

Signs of subsidence

• Zig-zag cracks in internal and/or external walls
• Cracks appearing in interior and/or exterior walls that are wider than 3mm
• Interior and/or exterior wall cracks that are wider at the top than they are at the bottom
• Cracks around windows and doors
• Wrinkled wallpaper
• Sloping ceilings and floors
• Windows and doors that are jammed shut
• Doors and windows that won’t close
• You have an extension that is pulling away from the rest of the house
• The property is noticeably leaning to one side

What are the different underpinning methods?

There are multiple underpinning methods that property owners will look to in order to rectify issues of subsidence. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular underpinning methods, from the conventional to the cutting-edge:

Mass concrete underpinning

A traditional technique that’s still in use today, mass concrete underpinning involves excavating the affected ground one section at a time, which is then backfilled with concrete before moving onto the next affected section.

Mini-piled underpinning

One of the most common methods of underpinning in the industry involves drilling or driving piles beneath the existing foundations. 

Beam & base underpinning

This excavation process is required for both the beam and base types of traditional underpinning. The entire region will not be concreted. Instead, mass concrete bases are strategically placed to ensure strength and stability.

Piled raft underpinning

This is a more traditional underpinning method. It’s a process that’s used when the entire building needs a considerable substructure. Piles are either driven or drilled after removing internal flooring to make a grid.

Geopolymer resin injection

The modern method offered by Geobear is an innovative, mess-free, non-disruptive subsidence solution that rivals all of the above. It involves injecting the affected ground with a geopolymer resin. The resin fills the gaps and voids, expanding and hardening as it goes along. 

It restores strength and stability to the ground and the structure that sits on top. Correcting long-lasting foundation problems regardless of the size of the property, this Geobear solution is designed with strength, durability and longevity in mind. 

Which underpinning method is best? Geobear’s subsidence solution: Innovative geopolymer resin injection technology

The geopolymer resin injection method from Geobear is a simple, innovative and mess-free method of underpinning. Its results are unrivalled, lasting for decades to come. There are multiple benefits to choosing Geobear’s underpinning solutions over other, more traditional techniques, including:

• Long-lasting results – a durable subsidence solution that will stand the test of time 
• Non-disruptive and mess-free – no excavation is required, making it a mess-free and non-disruptive underpinning method – you won’t even notice our team is there
• The process can be completed quickly and efficiently – it can take up to a day to complete the geopolymer resin injection method, depending on the severity of the case
• Application is versatile – Geobear’s solution can be applied to a range of domestic and commercial buildings, regardless of shape or size
• Load-bearing capacity that is second-to-none – lifting power is significant, making it ideal for a range of structural repairs, no matter the complexity of the job at hand
• Controllable process – the geopolymer resin injection method can be carried out with a high degree of control and precision, unlike more conventional solutions
• It’s eco-friendly – no excavation is needed, so landscapes, gardens and natural habitats will remain intact
• Architectural impact is minimal – only a few holes in the ground are required to effectively inject the geopolymer resin. It can also be injected through existing floor finishes, which is ideal for situations where there’s limited ground access 

Geobear delivers professional underpinning services across the country, providing fast and effective solutions for properties impacted by subsidence. Our advanced resin injection technique restores structural integrity with minimal mess and disruption – unlike traditional underpinning methods. To learn more about our subsidence solutions or to book a survey with one of our skilled specialists, feel free to get in touch. We’re here to help.