Anytime a building is initially constructed, plenty of emphasis is put on the foundation to make sure that the building is steady for many years to come. However, a building's foundation can quickly become eroded due to bad weather, underground variables, and the materials that were initially used during construction. Underpinning services are therefore important for strengthening an existing building's foundation and to strengthen the structure's underlying integrity.
There are several underpinning methods that are regularly employed to strengthen an existing building's foundation. These include beam and base underpinning, mass concrete underpinning, and mini-piled underpinning.
But why are underpinning services so important? Here are 4 reasons that will compel you to consider underpinning services for your current structures.
- A poorly constructed foundation
It is not uncommon to experience situations where the foundation of your current building was poorly constructed or is significantly weakened over time. Outdated construction methods can lead to the establishment of building foundations that are unable to remain intact for long periods of time.
Underpinning services can step in to strengthen a building's foundation that was initially poorly constructed.
- Harsh weather conditions and the surrounding ground structure
As previously mentioned, poor weather conditions or the state of the underground soil and rocks can cause significant wear and tear to the building's foundation. For example, earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters have been known to weaken the underground surface that supports a building. They may alter the structure of the soil and rocks that were initially positioned to provide excellent support.
Underpinning services can step in to strengthen your current foundation and ensure greater stability of the structure moving forward.
- The condition of nearby structures
The integrity of your building's foundation is affected by the surrounding structures. While your building may be solidly anchored beneath the ground, poorly constructed foundations of nearby buildings can put structure at risk.
It may be necessary to undertake additional measures to further strengthen your building's foundation relative to the nearby structures. Underpinning services can carry out a current analysis of the stability of surrounding buildings in order to recommend what you need to do to remain stable.
- When reconstructing or renovating your current building
If you're considering a new look for your current structure, you also need to think about your building's foundation. Renovations done to the building may add weight to the structure and make it necessary to strengthen the foundation in a proportional manner.
It is therefore important to consider underpinning services along with your proposed renovation project. For more information, contact companies like Jeffrey Hills and Associates.