Common Myths About Basement Underpinning Debunked

What comes to your mind when you hear about basement underpinning? I am sure it evokes images of complex, risky, and expensive procedures, isn’t it? But, what if I tell you it’s not how it seems? All you have is a wealth of misinformation and myths that are discouraging you and other homeowners from going for a solution that could significantly improve their property.

But I am here to debunk all the myths and introduce you to the reality so that you can make informed decisions when it comes to your home foundation. So, buckle up because here I go!

Myth 1: Only Old Houses Need Underpinning

This is only partially true because older homes with aging foundations are most of the time candidates for underpinning. But here’s a catch – this process is not limited to these houses.

If you have a new house, you never know when you can experience foundation issues due to soil settlement, inadequate initial construction, or poor drainage. Even those modern additions as well as renovations can result in damaging the existing foundation. So, is it now clear that any property that is built on unstable soil or prone to shifts may become a candidate for underpinning?

Myth 2: Underpinning Always Leads to Major Structural Damage

I know this is one of the most common fears for people. So I thought I should clear this misconception. A professional underpinning that is performed by skilled and experienced contractors always aims to prevent structural damage and not cause it. It’s the era of advancements, so even modern underpinning techniques have been introduced. With these new techniques and careful planning, the contractors minimize the risk of disruptions.

All it takes is a thorough site evaluation, precise excavation, and controlled jacking or pouring of concrete to ensure the stability of the structure throughout the process. In fact, if you don’t address a failing foundation, get ready to experience the most destructive structural damage.

Myth 3: Underpinning is Incredibly Expensive and Always Exceeds Budget

Just like any other significant home improvement project, underpinning requires significant investment. But it is not that you will have to spend a lot every time. The cost of the project varies depending on the extent of the work, the kind of underpinning method used, as well as the condition of the soil. To avoid overspending, you should also obtain multiple quotes from various reputable contractors.

In addition to this, you have to consider the long-term benefits of the process. Remember, basement underpinning can help you prevent costly future repairs and increase your property value.

Myth 4: Underpinning Disrupts the Entire House and Makes it Uninhabitable

This statement is not always true. Even though the underpinning project involves processes like construction and excavation, it is not always compulsory that it involves a complete home evacuation.  Depending on the method and the extent of the work, the contractors can even minimize disruptions. With the proper staging and planning of work areas, you can keep as much of the house usable as you can.

There are a few underpinning projects that are completed in sections. This allows you to maintain occupancy. If you rely on a skilled contractor, he will explain the entire process to you and will also let you know about the disturbances you may have to deal with.

Myth 5: DIY Underpinning is a Viable and Cost-Effective Option

One thing is for sure – underpinning is a highly specialized task that cannot be completed without the guidance of a contractor. This task requires expertise in structural engineering construction and soil mechanics. If you are planning to attempt DIY underpinning, I advise you not to. This one is an extremely risky project and may lead to personal injury, financial loss, and severe structural damage.

If you want to be tension-free, hire a licensed and insured professional who has an in-depth understanding of the complexities of the process involved, and let him handle the project. He will come to your location with the proper equipment required for a successful underpinning.

Myth 6: Underpinning Guarantees the Foundation Will Never Have Problems Again

I am not denying that underpinning can significantly strengthen and stabilize a foundation. But, you have to keep one thing in mind – the project does not give a guarantee for a lifetime problem-free performance. You never know when soil conditions change, when an extreme weather event occurs, or when a new construction project near your home can affect your foundation.

Even after getting underpinning, you have to ensure regular maintenance, proper drainage, and periodic inspections. Doing this will help you ensure the longevity and stability of your underpinned foundation.

Myth 7: Underpinning is Only Required When Visible Cracks Appear

Who says you only need underpinning when you notice visible cracks? Yes, of course, cracks can be a sign of a foundation problem, but these are not always the first indicators. There are so many signs that can help you discover that your property needs this project. Some of the signs include sticking doors and windows, uneven floors, and gaps between walls and ceilings.

If you choose to address foundation issues well on time, you are sure to prevent more significant and costly damage in the future. Regular foundation inspections are recommended, especially if you live in an area prone to soil shifts or floods.

Myth 8: Underpinning is a Quick Fix

Underpinning is no magic that can happen in a blink of an eye. It is a complex process that requires sufficient time. The amount of time that will take to complete the process depends on the size of the project, the method used, and also soil conditions.

The best you can do is, work with a contractor who can give you the exact estimate of the project completion and keep you updated about the progress throughout the process. Don’t rush – let your professional take his time so that you can avoid future complications.

In a Nutshell

This guide clears that basement underpinning is a valuable solution if you want to address foundation issues and also ensure the long-term stability of your home. I have talked about all these myths and debunked them for you so that you can make an informed decision. Just be sure you hire a qualified and skilled professional, get multiple quotes, and clear all your queries.

So, with this, I hope you get a professional who can perform a well-executed underpinning project that significantly enhances your home’s structural integrity.