The Philosophy of Underpinning
Many types of underpinning involves digging holes underneath buildings within confined spaces. Cracks appear on building walls caused by subsidence which can lead to horizontal stretching or squeezing of the ground causing vertical movement.
When movement of a building occurs, underpinning may be a solution. This will require digging underneath shallow footings and pouring concrete to extend the reach of the foundations to become stable.
Movement after construction
Many things can disturb the balance between the ground and its structure to create new settlement. Deep excavations, buildings on old foundations for example, can create new movements in all types of ground.
If ground movement is anticipated, structural damage can be mitigated by installing temporary measures such as bracing door and window openings.
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