Having a Better Understanding of Underpinning Services

You might have come across the term underpinning services and know that it is the process of stabilising and strengthening the foundation of an existing structure. What you might not know or be able to tell is when this is required.

Even though you might be informed to look out for cracked floors, uneven floors, misaligned locks, jamming windows, etc., you might have many false alarms. To prevent this, have your structure inspected by a professional at least twice a year. The professional derives a building inspection report and you get to see whether you require underpinning services.

What Should You Do If You Require Underpinning Services?

If you are informed that you need underpinning services, don't waste time because your structure can crumble down within a short period causing injuries, death and destruction to property. Additionally, you would incur a huge loss.

Find a reputable underpinning company and check if it handles every aspect of the underpinning process. This means that if you require plumbing, electrical, soil testing, tree or fencing services, the company will make arrangements. This will be a huge advantage to you because you won't have to trouble yourself by searching for different specialists.

What Should You Expect?

A structural engineer is sent to your structure site to carry out tests and determine the reason for the damage to your structure's foundation. After getting the results, he or she reports to the underpinning company, where a plan is prepared to deal with the issue and prevent it from happening again. You are always kept in the loop and will be informed of all findings. You are also informed about what the plan to restore your structure's foundation entails and how much it should cost you.

The plan is then set in motion and the underpinning process begins. The time it takes for the whole process to be completed depends on the level of damage your foundation has and what is needed to prevent the damage from happening again. Most of the time, the problem comes from the soil or the footings not being placed deep enough.

Is Underpinning Costly?

The cost depends on how much work is to be done and how many piers are required. So the answer to this question is yes, it can be, but it beats having to watch a structure you invested in crumble down to rocks and dust. You can always talk to the underpinning company to offer you a discount.

For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Jeffrey Hills and Associates.