What:
- Underpinning is a construction process used to strengthen and stabilize the foundations of existing buildings. It is often necessary when a structure shows signs of foundation settlement, needs to bear additional loads, or is undergoing renovation or expansion.
Why:
- Underpinning is crucial for several reasons:
- It strengthens existing foundations, ensuring the building remains stable and safe, particularly in cases where the original foundation has settled or weakened over time.
- It is essential for historic buildings, where maintaining structural integrity is critical to preserving the building’s heritage.
- Underpinning is often necessary for buildings undergoing renovation or expansion, where the existing foundation needs to support additional loads or modifications.
- It addresses foundation problems such as cracks, tilting, or sinking, thereby extending the building’s lifespan and preventing further damage.
How:
- The process of underpinning typically involves several steps:
- Assessment: The existing foundation is thoroughly assessed to determine the cause and extent of the issues. This step is crucial for designing the most effective underpinning solution.
- Designing a Customized Solution: Based on the assessment, a tailored underpinning solution is designed. The solution is specific to the building’s needs, taking into account factors such as soil conditions, load requirements, and the type of foundation.
- Implementation: The chosen underpinning method is implemented. Common techniques include:
- Mass Concrete Underpinning: Involves excavating sections beneath the existing foundation and filling them with concrete to provide additional support.
- Beam and Base Underpinning: Combines concrete beams and bases to transfer the load of the building to more stable ground.
- Mini-piled Underpinning: Uses small-diameter piles driven deep into the ground to support the foundation, often used in situations with restricted access or when dealing with very deep foundations.
Where:
- North Soil Engineering Sdn. Bhd. has demonstrated its expertise in a Design and Build contract for SP Setia Sdn Bhd:
Underpinning 21 Double-Storey Shop Offices at Setia Bayuemas for I&P Kota Bayuemas Sdn. Bhd.: This project involved stabilizing the foundations of a large commercial development, showcasing the company’s ability to handle complex underpinning tasks. The successful completion of this project highlights North Soil Engineering’s capability to deliver customized and effective underpinning solutions for large-scale structures.