Underpinning is a term you may have heard before. It’s similar to the foundation fairy. The next day, while enjoying your morning cup of coffee, you start to hear creaks. Underpinning could be the solution you need to make your home more secure.

Let’s take this to its bare essentials. Imagine that your home has been beaten up over the years. Those cracks you’re spotting? They’re not just character lines, they’re big red flags. Your house is literally sending a distress signal. This is where the underpinning comes in. It’s like a coach with an effective game plan.

Let’s start with the basics: What exactly is underpinning really? In essence, underpinning is the process of strengthening the foundation of your house. Consider it a little boost to your home. Homes on unstable or old ground will benefit the most. Some soils are designed to slowly eat your foundation away, causing sagging or settlement. The underpinning restores the strength and stability of these houses.

There are several reasons you may require underpinning. Perhaps your house was built on bad soil. Maybe the roots of that tree in front have spread a bit too far. You may have just added an extension and the old foundation is now groaning. Imagine your area has been hit hard by a drought or a flood. Mother Nature can damage your home. Underpinnings can repair the damage.

This magic trick can be performed in a variety of ways. The traditional method involves digging under the existing foundation, and pouring in cement. It is straightforward, though a little messy. You can also use the pile method to support your foundation. Concrete or steel piles will be driven into the ground. You can even use the resin-injection technique which is more cost-effective but slower.