A professional underpinning contractor will not only handle the underpinning project itself but will also give you expert advice on what you can do to avoid further foundation settling in the near future.
There are risk factors that you will have to carefully consider. In addressing these risk factors, here are some of the top tips for underpinning.
1. Undertake Underpinning For The Whole Foundation
While it may seem like the more cost-effective idea to underpin just the section of the foundation that appears to have issues, a qualified underpinning contractor will caution against it.
Settling usually affects the structural integrity of the entire foundation. Underpinning only a portion of the foundation may, therefore, not be a good idea as it will only help in encouraging differential settling. That said, the extent of subsidence will determine the scope of work that the underpinning contractor will undertake.
2. Take Care Of Plumbing Problems
Your plumbing network stretches to the foundation. A plumbing leak can, over time, saturate the soil that is beneath the foundation. Waterlogged soil easily washes away, and as it shifts, the foundation may shift along with it. Again, as the soil washes away, the holes it leaves below the foundation leaves little support for the foundation, which then drops and cracks.
You may find that the foundation underpinning contractor has a reliable plumber that they can recommend to you. Taking care of such plumbing problems will ensure that your newly underpinned foundation doesn't suffer more damage.
3. Take Care of Surrounding Vegetation
If there are trees and other plants with a huge and extensive root network standing too close to your property, then they can pose a threat. These large trees dry out the soil beneath the foundation, especially during prolonged dry weather or a drought season. Dried up soil will sink, and your foundation may drop along with it.
You can hire an expert tree removal service. An alternative to removing the trees is installing root barriers. Again, your underpinning contractor may be in a position to recommend a professional and reliable service for the job.
A qualified and experienced underpinning contractor will deliver the best results on your underpinning project. However, you need to ensure that you cover all the possible risk factors, including those highlighted. Failure to do so will only lead to more foundation problems not too long after completing the underpinning. Look for an underpinning contractor for more advice.