Benefits of Micropile Underpinning
Micropiles are deep foundation friction piles constructed using high strength steel casings. A friction pile allows transfer of some of the pressure put on them to the soil around them. The friction creates an adhesive effect where the pile and the soil connect. Micropile underpinning is the process of creating small diameter drilled and grouted friction piles. Hollow bars are then installed via the injection bored method to complete the underpinning process.
The injection bored method is when hollow bars are installed then pumped full of a cement grout mixture while an anchor is drilled into the grout. There are several advantages to using the micropile underpinning process offered by My Foundation Repairs:
- Fast and effective
- Drilling and grouting completed at the same time
- Ability to use smaller equipment thus able to work in smaller spaces at a lower cost
- Improves the ground
- Offers a higher skin friction protection
How Micropile Underpinning Works
Micropile underpinning uses small-diameter piles to support and stabilize a foundation. The micropiles are installed using a small drilling rig, and they are usually made of steel or concrete. The piles are driven into the ground until they reach a stable stratum, and then they are grouted in place.
Once the micropiles are in place, the load from the foundation is transferred to the piles, which helps to stabilize the foundation and prevent further settling. In some cases, additional reinforcement may be needed to ensure that the micropiles can carry the load of the foundation. However, micropile underpinning is typically a cost-effective and efficient way to stabilize a foundation and prevent further damage.
Micropile Underpinning For Foundation Repair
My Foundation Repairs uses Earth Contact Products. Earth Contact Products (ECP) created a process of micropile underpinning by coordinating the injection bored method with a bracketing system for underpinning. The ECP model 350MP offers all the advantages of the regular micropile method; however, it offers a unique choice to contractors dealing with underpinning through tough soil conditions. Earth Contact Products are made in the United States of America. Another reason that My Foundation Repairs uses ECP products is ECP’s commitment to using green products. ECP is committed to using as many recyclable products as possible, reclaims production waste, reuses boxes as often as possible for shipping, and focuses on green product development.
Micropile Underpinning Contractors
Foundation repairs are not a do-it-yourself project, please call today for a professional from My Foundation Repairs to review your foundation problems. We will provide a thorough inspection and respond quickly and accurately to any of your questions.
When Micropile Underpinning is Necessary
Micropile underpinning is a process of reinforcing the foundation of an existing structure by installing small-diameter piles. This technique is often used in situations where the soil is too weak to support the weight of the existing structure, or when the structure has settled and needs to be lifted back into place.
In some cases, micropile underpinning may also be used to stabilize a slope or hillside. The piles are installed using a small rig, and they are usually made of steel or concrete. Micropile underpinning is a relatively quick and simple process, and it can be completed with minimal disruption to the day-to-day operations of the existing structure.
And remember, some of the signs to look for that may indicate that you may be in need of foundation repair are:
- Cracked walls
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Leaning chimney
- Sloping floors
- Porch pulling away from the home
- Garage column cracks
- Doors and windows that stick