Structural Underpinning is the process used to strengthen or stabilize structures by extending the depth or breath of the foundation so that the structure rests on a stable stratum or distributes the load across a larger area.
Structural steel underpinning uses steel to stabilize foundations for the following reasons:
- Strength – The original foundation is not strong enough to support its structure
- Change – The use of the structure has changed
- Soil – The properties of the soil have changed or were miscategorized to begin with
- Construction – Additional construction to the structure requires a stronger foundation or new structures added around existing structure
- Economical – It’s cheaper to repair the existing foundation versus making a new one
When structures show signs of foundation damage, but before attempting DIY foundation repair, it’s important to have a foundation repair specialist test the soil and inspect the damage to determine the best course of action.