You have just purchased an old Victorian beauty. However, the floor sag that you see is not exactly what was expected. Yes, the floor is sagging like an old house trying to bow. So what should a Melbournian do? Rectify Underpinning, mate. This is what you’re after.
If your home’s behavior starts to resemble that of a teenager, it’s time to pay attention. This is the house telling you it’s time for some serious TLC. The ground shifting due to Melbourne’s wacky weather, our old-school foundations and the compaction of soils are all factors that can be detrimental to your beloved structure. If you are anything like me you would love to preserve the antique beauty of your home without having it become a tripping hazard.
Underpinning involves pouring new concrete on top of the existing foundation. Imagine that you are giving your house the sturdy orthotics that your granny swears upon. The house is suddenly firm and sturdy, and your cringing at every creak has gone.
Melbourne’s construction industry has become a hub of innovation, bringing new techniques and materials to the table that are not only effective but also interesting. From beam and base up to piles, methods can range from traditional mass-concrete underpinning. Choose the foundation method that is best for each situation.
Remember how your uncle made a fix for his wobbly fence using duct tape? Imagine doing it to your house. Spoiler, it’s a bad idea. This is why you should hire professionals. The professionals don’t only bring the big guns. Instead, they have a full arsenal of weapons. This includes soil testing. To structural analysis. These professionals don’t just use a sledgehammer to hope for the best.
The fact that there is no one-size-fits all underpinning solution is a great thing. Specialists can suggest mini-piles or mass concrete if soil is weak. Imagine trying to fix an old watch. You want someone who is familiar with the details, right?
What about the cost, you may ask? The elephant in your room could be the cost. Although quality work isn’t inexpensive, biting the nail now can save you thousands in the long run. You could get a cheap cowboy contractor that makes promises as sweet as Nana’s Pavlova. You may want to consider whether you’re willing to put your house at risk of its structural integrity.
Mark shared the story of his life over coffee with me last month. His house near Albert Park was sinking quicker than my spirits in Melbourne’s Winter. He found an expert to guide him in the right direction. For example, he was shown how to pick the perfect avocado: firm and ready. After a few months, his house still stood strong and proud. No more ‘house settling noises’ at 2 am; just peace and quiet.
Melbournians share a unique bond with their home. The quirky nature of our homes is as old and enduring as our passion for football. Underpinning’s blend of new and ancient, modern architecture and classical techniques, is almost poetry.
Reconsider sweeping that floor. Think of your house like a close friend that needs some help–both literally and metaphorically. Speak to professionals about what your home needs, and most importantly, how you can ensure that it will continue to last for many more years without sagging.
We’ll do our best to keep our Melbourne houses as solid as the MCG spirit. Just a little foundation today can make a big difference in the peace of tomorrow. And who wouldn’t toast that to?
