Concrete Underpinning Services
At Shire, our structural engineering consultants design and oversee traditional underpinning schemes that provide a permanent, reliable foundation solution.
What is Concrete Underpinning?
Traditional underpinning, also known as mass concrete underpinning, is one of the most widely used and trusted methods of foundation strengthening in the UK. It is a proven technique for stabilising buildings affected by subsidence, shallow foundations, or changes in structural loading, and remains a cost-effective solution for many structural engineering projects.
How Does Traditional Underpinning Work?
Traditional underpinning involves strengthening an existing foundation by extending it to a deeper, firmer bearing stratum below the level affected by settlement or weak ground.
The process typically includes:
- Excavating small sections (known as pins or bays) beneath the existing foundation, usually around 1–1.2 metres wide
- Digging down to stronger, more stable soil below the depth of previous movement
- Filling each excavated pin with mass concrete and allowing it to cure
- Working in a carefully planned sequence so the structure remains fully supported at all times
- Packing up to the underside of the original foundation using dry-pack or packers to ensure full load transfer
Once complete, the building effectively sits on a new, deeper and stronger foundation designed to prevent further movement.
When Is Concret Underpinning Used?
Traditional underpinning is often specified when:
- Existing foundations are too shallow and require greater depth
- A property is experiencing progressive or historic subsidence
- Weak soils such as clay, made ground, or compressible fill are present
- Additional loading is planned, such as adding another storey or structural alterations
- Nearby excavations or developments risk undermining the existing foundations
- A low-tech, cost-effective and proven engineering solution is preferred
It is particularly suitable for projects where ground conditions are favourable for mass concrete solutions and where a straightforward approach is desirable.
The Advantages
Traditional underpinning remains popular because of its practical benefits:
- Simple and reliable, a technique with decades of proven performance
- No specialist equipment required, reducing complexity on site
- Provides a permanent solution when soil conditions are suitable
- Ideal where access is restricted or machinery cannot be used
- Cost-effective compared to more complex underpinning systems
- Suitable for a wide range of domestic and commercial properties
Why Choose Shire for Underpinning Design?
Our experienced structural engineering team assesses the cause of movement, soil conditions, and structural requirements before designing a tailored underpinning solution. We work closely with contractors and building control to ensure the underpinning is carried out safely, sequentially, and in line with best practice.
Whether your project involves subsidence repair, foundation strengthening, or structural alterations, Shire provides the expertise needed to deliver a safe and effective traditional underpinning scheme.
Speak to Our Structural Engineering Specialist for Concrete Underpinning
If you are planning a project that may require underpinning, or you have concerns about foundation movement, our team is here to help. We can assess your property and advise whether traditional underpinning is the right solution for your needs.
