How Much Does It Cost To Underpin A House In Bendigo?

On average, it can cost you between $5000 to $40,000 to underpin a house in Bendigo. It mainly depends on two variants – how severe the damage is and how much work is needed to fix it. For larger projects where a lot of underpinning is needed, the cost can go high up to $80,000.

In this post, we will go through the factors that can affect the total cost of underpinning. We also cover the different underpinning techniques and how they can affect pricing.

What is Underpinning? 

Underpinning is a process to strengthen the load-bearing capacity of a building. There are various methods used for underpinning with the most common being traditional concrete underpinning and screwpile underpinning.

Underpinning is needed when the original foundation is weakened over time often due to moisture levels changing that it can’t bear the current load of the building. It is also used to increase the load capacity when adding height to an existing foundation.

Usually, piers or pins and other means are used to add extra support to the damaged foundation. Underpinning is essential when the existing foundation loses its strength to bear the load of the house or structure.

What Are The Different Underpinning Methods? 

Mainly, two types of underpinning methods are used to underpin a house. They are concrete underpinning and screwpile underpinning. Each one has its distinct advantages and disadvantages and is used in different cases.

Concrete Slab Underpinning 

In this process, contractors dig deep in the ground and pour concrete to seal the footing to support the foundation. The technique is very safe and quick to apply. 

Screwpile underpinning

In this process, long and big steel screws are driven deep into the ground and with the top of the screws being encased in concrete to strengthen the soil around it. Contractors or engineers ensure that the screwpile goes deep into the soil until it reaches a solid structure to support it. Once it goes deep into the required depth, concrete is poured to secure the perimeter.

What Should You be Looking for in an Underpinning Quote? 

Make sure your underpinning quotes match any of these methods:

Fixed time frame: 

Ensure the contractor you hire gives you a timeline for their work that includes everything that needs to be done and how long each task will take. This way, you can trust that the work will be completed in a timely manner. 

Fixed Price Quotation

Going for a fixed-price quote for your underpinning project is a good idea. In this process, the contractor will give you a fixed quote assessing your project. The contractor can’t charge you any extra above the said quote. So, you can finish the project with the same amount they agreed upon. However, ensure all the required tasks are included in the quote.

Clear Quote

Make sure the quotes you get are transparent. The quote should be all-inclusive and have no hidden charge. In addition, the company should be able and willing to explain the process in detail so that you know what you’re paying for.

Underpinning a home can be an expensive but necessary process to ensure the safety of your family and property. In this article, we’ve talked about the different underpinning methods, how they work, and what you should look for in a quote. We hope this information will help you make the best decision for your needs. Always use a licensed contractor to be safe and sound.

If you still have questions about what is underpinning, check out our other blog here.