Other Definitions
underpinning (dict)
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UnderpinningIn construction, underpinning is the process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of an existing building or other structure. Underpinning may be necessary for a variety of reasons: - The original foundation is simply not be strong or stable enough.
- The usage of the structure has changed.
- The properties of the soil supporting the foundation may have changed or was mischaracterized during planning.
- The construction of nearby structures necessitates the excavation of soil supporting existing foundations.
Underpinning is accomplished by extending the foundation in depth or in breadth so it either rests on a stronger soil stratum or distributes its load across a greater area. An alternative to underpinning is the strengthening of the soil by the introduction of a grout. All of these processes are generally expensive and elaborate.
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