Underpinning is a proven strategy for reinforcing a damaged foundation or strengthening the footings to support extra weight. When deciding whether to pursue underpinning to repair a foundation, many homeowners want to know how long the process takes. Unfortunately, because methods vary so widely and each situation is different, estimating a timeframe can be extremely difficult.

How Long Does Underpinning Take?

What Is Underpinning?

The term describes a category of techniques for stabilizing a damaged foundation or to give the walls the strength to support an additional story. Variations of underpinning are best suited for different situations, but almost all methods involve excavating the soil underneath the footing and installing a reinforcing mechanism. In some cases, this might simply involve pouring additional concrete deeper into the soil or using steel rods to anchor the foundation to the bedrock below.

Why Would You Need Underpinning?

Most commonly, homes need this service when the soil under the foundation has settled, weakening the foundation walls and causing cracks in the basement. Other foundation issues might be the result of nearby excavation, or water erosion eating away at the ground beneath the building. In some cases, contractors may recommend underpinning if the original foundation was poorly installed, or is not strong enough to support the weight of a remodeled structure.

How Long Does It Take?

The length of an underpinning project depends on a wide variety of factors, but in most cases, it can be finished in two to four weeks. The size of the foundation, the severity of the problem, and the exact process used can make the project take longer to complete.
 

As one of the nation’s largest concrete stabilization and foundation repair contractors, The Dwyer Company offers expert service on projects of any size and a reputation that you can trust. In addition to mastering every underpinning technique available, these industry leaders have introduced new technologies that give them capabilities no other contractor can match. Visit their website for more on their foundation repair services, get more advice on Twitter, or call their Lexington, KY, location at (859) 231-0998, dial (502) 489-5438 for their Louisville, KY office, or (513) 777-0998 to request a free estimate from their team in West Chester, OH.