Toronto Basement Underpinning Contractors

As a homeowner in Toronto, you may have heard the term “underpinning” when it comes to your home’s foundation. But what exactly is underpinning, and when is it necessary? At IcyReno Waterproofing, we have years of experience in providing underpinning services to homeowners in Toronto, and we’re here to answer all your questions about this important process.

What is Underpinning?

Underpinning is a process used to strengthen the foundation of a building. It involves excavating soil from under the existing foundation and replacing it with new, stronger materials, such as concrete or steel. This process increases the depth and support of the foundation, which can help prevent future damage to the building.

Underpinning is typically done in situations where the existing basement is not deep enough to meet the desired height requirements for a functional living space. It can be a viable solution for homeowners who wish to transform their basement into a more comfortable and habitable area without significantly altering the structure of the house.

When is Underpinning Necessary?

There are several reasons why underpinning may be necessary for your home. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Foundation Cracks: If you notice cracks in your foundation, it may be a sign that the foundation is not properly supported. Underpinning can help stabilize the foundation and prevent further cracking.
• Uneven or Sagging Floors: If you notice that your floors are uneven or sagging, it could be a sign of a weakened foundation. Underpinning can help level the floors and prevent further damage.
• Building Additions: If you’re planning on adding an extra floor to your home or adding an extension, underpinning may be necessary to support the additional weight.
• Soil Shifting: If the soil under your foundation has shifted or settled, underpinning can help stabilize the foundation and prevent further shifting.
• Aging Foundation: If your home’s foundation is aging and starting to show signs of wear and tear, underpinning can help strengthen the foundation and extend its lifespan.

If you own a home in Toronto, you may be curious about the costs associated with underpinning your foundation. Underpinning is a process that involves excavating soil from beneath the foundation and replacing it with stronger material. It’s usually necessary when the existing foundation is inadequate to support the structure’s weight or when the foundation has deteriorated or become unstable over time. At IcyReno, we have years of experience in foundation repair and waterproofing, and we can help you understand the expenses involved in underpinning your home’s foundation.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Underpinning

There are several factors that can affect the cost of underpinning in Toronto, including:

• The Size of the Foundation: The larger the foundation, the more materials and labor will be required to underpin it.
• The Type of Underpinning: There are different types of underpinning, including traditional underpinning, mini-piling, and resin injection. Each method has its own costs associated with it.
• Access to the Site: If the underpinning site is difficult to access, such as in a tight space or a remote location, the cost may be higher due to the additional labor and equipment required.
• Existing Damage: If there is already significant damage to the foundation or surrounding structures, additional repairs may need to be made, which will add to the overall cost.
• Local Building Codes: Certain areas may require additional permits or inspections, which can increase the cost of underpinning.
• Additional Services: In some cases, additional services such as waterproofing, drainage systems, or excavation may be required, which will increase the overall cost.

If you have a wet, damp, or leaky basement, you are not alone. Wet basements are a common problem that many homeowners face, and they can lead to significant damage to your property if not addressed promptly. At IcyReno Waterproofing, we specialize in basement leak inspections and waterproofing services to protect your home from foundation cracks and basement leaks. In this article, we will guide you through the process of underpinning a basement and explain how our team can help you with your waterproofing needs.

Why Underpinning Is Important

A wet or damp basement is a common problem for many homeowners, and it can cause a lot of damage if not addressed promptly. Basement leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural issues, which can significantly reduce the value of your home. Underpinning is the process of strengthening the foundation of your home by extending it deeper into the ground. This ensures a sturdy and durable foundation, which is essential for the longevity of your home. Basement underpinning is necessary when the foundation is weak, and it needs to be reinforced to prevent further damage.

The Underpinning Process

At IcyReno, we follow a strict process to ensure that the underpinning is done correctly and efficiently. The process involves the following steps:

1. Inspection: Our team will conduct a thorough inspection of your basement to determine the extent of the damage and identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
2. Preparation: We will prepare the area by removing any debris and clearing the work area. We will also install temporary supports to ensure the safety of the structure.
3. Excavation: We will excavate the soil around the foundation, exposing the existing footings. This allows us to inspect the condition of the foundation and determine the necessary repairs.
4. Footing Repair: We will repair any cracks or damage to the existing footings using specialized equipment and materials. This ensures that the existing foundation is stable and capable of supporting the new underpinning.
5. Underpinning: We will install the new underpinning using steel beams or concrete, extending the foundation deeper into the ground. This provides additional support to the existing foundation and strengthens the structure.
6. Waterproofing: Once the underpinning is complete, we will waterproof the foundation to prevent future water damage.
7. Backfilling: We will backfill the excavation area and restore the landscaping to its original condition.

There are several types of underpinning methods used in Toronto, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice of underpinning method will depend on the severity of the foundation damage, soil type, and other factors. The following are the most common types of underpinning methods used in Toronto:

Mass Concrete Underpinning. Mass concrete underpinning is the most traditional and straightforward underpinning method. It involves digging trenches beneath the foundation and filling them with concrete. The concrete creates a new, stronger foundation that supports the weight of the building. Mass concrete underpinning is ideal for buildings with shallow foundations and is relatively cost-effective.

Beam and Base Underpinning. Beam and base underpinning involves excavating small sections of the foundation at a time and installing reinforced concrete beams. The beams are then connected to concrete bases that form the new foundation. Beam and base underpinning is ideal for buildings with deep foundations and can be used to create a deeper foundation for an extension or addition.

Mini Piled Underpinning. Mini piled underpinning involves drilling small-diameter piles into the ground beneath the foundation. The piles are then reinforced with steel and grouted to create a stable foundation. Mini piled underpinning is ideal for buildings with limited access or where noise and vibration must be kept to a minimum.

Screw Piled Underpinning Screw piled underpinning involves screwing steel piles into the ground beneath the foundation. The piles are then reinforced with concrete to create a stable foundation. Screw piled underpinning is ideal for buildings with limited access, where the use of heavy equipment is not feasible.

Resin Injection Underpinning. Resin injection underpinning involves injecting a resin into the soil beneath the foundation. The resin expands, creating a solid base that supports the weight of the building. Resin injection underpinning is ideal for buildings with shallow foundations, where traditional underpinning methods are not feasible.

Choosing the Right Underpinning Method

Choosing the right underpinning method is crucial to the success of the project. At IcyReno Waterproofing, we conduct a thorough inspection of the foundation and surrounding soil before recommending the most appropriate underpinning method. Our team of experts takes into account factors such as the soil type, building type, access, and budget when recommending the right underpinning method for your building.

Underpinning is a process of reinforcing the foundation of a building to prevent it from sinking or collapsing. It is a complex procedure that requires the expertise of a professional. While some minor cracks and slight settling can be easily fixed, there are certain signs that indicate that you need to seek the help of a professional for underpinning. In this article, we will discuss the signs that your foundation needs structural reinforcement and when to call a professional for underpinning.

Cracks in the Foundation Walls

One of the most obvious signs that your foundation needs underpinning is the presence of cracks in the foundation walls. Some cracks may be minor and only cosmetic, while others are severe and can indicate a more serious problem. Cracks that are wider than a quarter inch are usually a red flag and should be evaluated by a professional. They can be caused by soil movement, water infiltration, or other environmental factors.

Uneven Floors

Uneven floors are usually a sign that your foundation has shifted or settled. This can cause floors to slope or sag, making it difficult to walk or stand on. If you notice that your floors are uneven or sloping, it could be time to call in a professional for underpinning.

Sticking Doors and Windows

Doors and windows that stick or are difficult to open and close can be a sign that your foundation is shifting or settling. This is because when your foundation shifts, it can cause your doors and windows to become misaligned. If you notice that your doors and windows are sticking, it is important to have your foundation evaluated by a professional.

Cracks in the Exterior Brickwork

If you notice cracks in the exterior brickwork of your home, it could be a sign that your foundation is settling or shifting. These cracks can be caused by a variety of factors, including soil movement, water infiltration, or other environmental factors. If the cracks are wider than a quarter inch, it is important to have your foundation evaluated by a professional.

Water Damage

Water damage is another sign that your foundation may need underpinning. If you notice water in your basement or crawl space, it could be a sign that your foundation is settling or shifting. Water infiltration can also cause your foundation to weaken, making it more vulnerable to damage.

Sagging or Bowed Walls

Sagging or bowed walls are usually a sign that your foundation is settling or shifting. This can cause walls to lean or bow, making it difficult to hang shelves or pictures. If you notice that your walls are sagging or bowing, it is important to have your foundation evaluated by a professional.

Chimney Issues

Chimney issues are another sign that your foundation may need underpinning. If you notice that your chimney is separating from your home or leaning, it could be a sign that your foundation is shifting or settling. This can be a serious problem, as chimney issues can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or chimney collapses.

In conclusion, if you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek the help of a professional for underpinning. Underpinning is a complex procedure that should only be done by a professional. By addressing these issues early on, you can prevent further damage to your foundation and ensure the safety of your home.

The length of time for underpinning depends on the size and scope of the job. Generally, underpinning a single-story house can take anywhere from one to two weeks whereas underpinning a multi-story structure may take more than three weeks.

Underpinning can be disruptive depending on the extent of work and location. If it’s a simple job, then there may only be minor disruption such as jackhammering for one to two days. However, larger jobs may require excavation which can cause more noise and dust. We will provide tips and suggestions on how to prepare for your renovation project.

Yes, there can be safety concerns related to underpinning such as the risk of collapse or structural damage due to poor workmanship. It is incredibly crucial to hire an experienced and reputable company who adheres to safety regulations in order to avoid any potential risks. As one of the largest basement underpinning companies in the GTA, we take safety incredibly seriously.

Yes, you will need a permit for basement underpinning in Toronto and the GTA. As part of the Ontario Building Code all structural alterations to an existing home require permits from your local city building department. Depending on the scope and size of the project, additional permits may also be required from other departments such as the Ministry of Environment or Conservation Authorities. It is essential to obtain all the necessary permits prior to beginning any work. Failing to do so can result in costly delays and penalties. We will guide you through the whole process.