Restumping | Elite Restumping Underpinning

Restumping to Elite!

Stumps were traditionally made of hardwood, but over time this rot away leaving the floor unsupported

Eterior cracking on brickwork.
Doors and windows not functioning correctly.
Continually cracking interior wall
Uneven, bowed or ‘soft’ floors

What is Restumping?

Restumping, also known as reblocking, involves resetting (or replacing) the stumps on a house that uses a stump subfloor. This is normally necessary when the house stumps have settled as a result of soil movement, or when wooden stumps have rotted as a result of moisture in the soil. It is also a wise move to restump an older home that will be undergoing major renovations, due to the added strain on the structure of the house. Restumping any house is a big undertaking and if it’s not handled correctly, it could be very dangerous for you and your house.

The Restumping process

The Restumping process involves excavating soil from under the existing foundation in small sections and replacing it with new, stronger materials such as concrete or steel. The new materials are then allowed to cure before the next section is excavated and reinforced.

The first step is to assess which stumps need to be replaced or reset. This is normally done using a level to assess how even your floors are, and by checking the stumps themselves for movement and deterioration. The house is then gradually and slightly jacked up where the stump that needs to be replaced is, and existing stumps are either packed out to compensate for settling or are removed and replaced altogether.

While it can be quite challenging, it’s well worth paying to have it done professionally and to the highest standard by hiring a licensed and qualified professional. Restumping is a difficult and dirty job, and having it done properly is crucial to the structural integrity of your home.

What causes settling?

Settling is what happens when the soil shifts and shrinks beneath a house, disrupting the stability of the foundation and often causing damage to the slab. In the case of stumps, settling may cause damage to plaster and brickwork, doorways, and windows or even to the frame of the house.

Does my home need restumping?

Restumping, also known as reblocking, involves resetting (or replacing) the stumps on a house that uses a stump subfloor.

All houses are different and are built on ground with different soil conditions. For that reason, every house will display deterioration in different ways. If failed stumping is left untreated though, the result is the same, partial, or total collapse of the structure. When soil shifts and moves underneath a foundation, whether due to settling, reactive clay or other issues, it can lead to buckling and cracking. This has knock-on effects through the rest of the house; cracks can appear in walls internally and externally, floors can droop and sag in places or become detached from the walls and seepage can occur, with water drawn up through the cracks and into your floor.

A house can be partially restumped if only certain areas need it, but there is always the risk that a few rotten stumps that were thought to be in good condition may collapse later on, requiring you to restump again. While wooden stumps may look fine, they may well be rotting under the ground. It’s a big job to have to return just to replace one or two stumps!

What can we support with?

Dedication to client satisfaction

15 years of Experience

Attention to safety

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that my building needs underpinning?

Signs that your building may need underpinning include cracked or bowed walls, sloping floors, doors or windows that no longer close properly, and visible gaps between the walls and ceiling. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to have a qualified professional inspect your foundation and recommend the best course of action.

How long does underpinning take?

The duration of the underpinning process depends on the complexity and scope of the project. Small projects may take only a few days, while larger and more complex projects may take several weeks or months to complete.

How much does underpinning cost?

The cost of underpinning depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the building, the condition of the existing foundation, and the materials used for the underpinning. It is best to get a detailed quote from a qualified professional.

Will underpinning cause damage to my building?

Underpinning is a delicate process that can potentially cause damage to a building if not done correctly. However, with the right techniques and equipment, the risk of damage can be minimized.

Will underpinning increase the value of my property?

Underpinning can improve the stability and safety of a building, which can increase its value. However, the extent to which underpinning increases property value depends on several factors, including the location and condition of the property, and the quality of the underpinning work.

Need more information?

Call Us Now