Reblocking and Underpinning
Reblocking and Underpinning are processes which address the foundations that support the structure of a house. They can be used separately or together and both address the issues caused by changes in ground conditions, such as settlement and sinking of the building’s foundation. Both processes require expertise in excavation and foundation repair. Both can also be costly, depending on the complexity of the work and the type of materials chosen.
The term “Reblocking” is generally applied to a process that repairs and replaces the timber stumps which support the house, either due to damage from storms or gradual wear and tear over time. This can involve removing the existing stumps, replacing them with concrete ones and pouring a new slab on which to build. This can be done at the same time as underpinning and can make a house more attractive, both in terms of its appearance and its value.
Underpinning is a more involved method of repairing and stabilising a home’s foundations, typically applied when a house has a brick veneer but a concrete slab foundation. Over the years, soil and weather elements cause these slabs to sink in certain areas, causing the brick veneer to lose its tight alignment with the walls of the house, leading to structural instability. Underpinning involves excavating and pumping concrete into the soft soil or clay beneath the slab to stabilise it.
A more advanced variation of this technique is the beam and base method of underpinning. This combines the benefits of traditional mass concrete underpinning with a more technical approach, whereby a reinforced concrete beam is constructed below, above or in place of a single footing, with the load of the house transferred to the new beam via jacks. This is a more cost effective option than underpinning by itself and can be quicker to undertake.
Both reblocking and underpinning can significantly increase the value of a house by addressing a common issue that affects most buildings. They can also be a great way to improve the safety and stability of a house, making it a safer environment for its inhabitants and increasing its marketability. The best way to determine whether a house is in need of either of these processes is to consult with an expert who can provide advice and recommendations specific to the property. If you are in the market for a new home, it’s worth getting these services carried out before you purchase it. It will save you a lot of stress and money in the long run.
Precise Restumping & Underpinning successfully maintains a reputation for delivering quality, reliable and sound services to clients all over New South Wales, with a licensed builder that personally oversee all work.
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