Commercial underpinning is a major undertaking that should be carried out by qualified damage contractors. This process involves improving the integrity of a compromised structure to improve stability and prolong the service life. In general, you should consider this type of repair work for your building if you have noticed structural problems that could indicate foundation damage. For instance, sloping floors, cracked ceilings and leaning walls are common signs of a faulty building. If you are interested in commercial underpinning, use these tips to ensure successful restoration.

Plan for Structural Assessment

The structural problems in your commercial building do not necessarily indicate foundation damage. Therefore, you should think about having the structure assessed before commissioning underpinning. This will ensure that the root of the problem is resolved. Moreover, you will avoid the high costs associated with underpinning. The survey of the building should be conducted by a qualified contractor. Their goal should be to determine the type and extent of foundation damage. The information obtained will be used to identify the best repair strategy.

Resolve Underlying Problems

Structural problems in the foundation of your commercial building do not occur without cause. Therefore, you should not rush directly to conducting repairs through underpinning. It is advisable to understand the cause of the damage and address it. This will prevent recurrence after restoration. For instance, drainage problems around the foundation contribute to foundation degradation. It is advisable to establish a solution for managing water flow before underpinning.

Discuss the Underpinning Options

You should know the commercial underpinning approaches that might be applicable for your building. This information is crucial because different methods have their merits and demerits. You must choose the most beneficial. If you are unfamiliar with the techniques, you can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. Look at critical factors like the type of equipment required, the time needed for repairs, the cost of the process and overall efficiency of the method. This will help you make a thorough comparison and make a good decision.

Acquire Appropriate Permits

Finally, you must ensure that you have the appropriate legal permits required for underpinning before commissioning the restoration work. Overlooking this aspect of the project will cause complications along the way. Keep in mind that commercial underpinning is a significant undertaking that will affect the safety and durability of the building. Typically, applying for approval can be time-consuming and a little daunting for an inexperienced person. Therefore, you should inquire about the possibility of your damage contractors handling this task on your behalf.