Size is everything with Mini Piling
Mini piles are a lightweight type of pile that is relatively new compared to more traditional piles. Mini piles can be driven piles or screw piles and have become an increasingly popular choice because of their numerous advantages.
There are certain conditions which mean that mini piles are the only feasible option. Mini piling is often the most cost-effective method for contractors as they save a lot of time and money on difficult underpinning projects.
Mini piling is ideal when there is limited space available, unsuitable ground conditions or when conventional piles would be too heavy to use. Mini piling is also the best option when there is a need for sound restrictions as it generates less vibration and noise.
If you need a reliable, convenient and versatile piling option then mini piling is the solution for you.
The Underpinning Factor
If the foundation work of a building or structure has not been carried out properly, or it is an old building and time has taken its toll, then it is important to strengthen and stabilise a building to ensure that it is safe. This process is known as underpinning.
Underpinning is usually a one-stop solution for any sort of foundation issues. Underpinning is a sure-fire way to correct any problems with a building’s foundations. Underpinning may be required if the use of a building changes. For example, if a building which used to be a house is then turned into a shop, underpinning will allow that building to be able to withstand more pressure.
Over time, ground and soil conditions can change. If there has been any movement of the soil beneath or around a building, possibly through subsidence, then underpinning will help to strengthen the foundations of it. When a new building is erected near to existing buildings, underpinning may be required to strengthen the surrounding properties.
Underpinning can be a much cheaper alternative with increasing land prices. This could mean that underpinning would be more logical to make improvements to an existing property rather than paying large amounts of money for more land.
Underpinning the Situation
Underpinning is the method that is used to make the foundation of a building or structure stable. This process is carried out when a new building is being constructed, an existing building is being changed or the supporting soil has undergone changes. This could be due to the roots of trees growing and disrupting the foundations. If a nearby building has lower foundations then surrounding structures may need to be lowered to ensure its stability. Foundations may also be widened in certain situation to make them more supportive.
Underpinning is skilled work and must always be carried out and/or supervised by a qualified engineer. It is important to follow health and safety guidelines as it can be dangerous work. There are different types of underpinning available. Beam and base underpinning involves the construction of a concrete beam above or to replace an existing footing. The beam then transfers the weight of the structure to concrete bases.
The option of mini-piled underpinning is suitable for when foundation loads require to be transferred to stable soils at depths of more than 5.0 metres. The mini-piles can be either augured or driven steel cased and implemented using specially designed rigs.