Methods of Underpinning

Several methods are available for underpinning foundations but four routine methods which are used in general are:

1. Pit Method
2. Pile Method
3. Pier Method
4. Chemical Method

1. Pit Method

Generally underpinning by pit method is carried out by excavating slowly in stages. For this the existing wall is divided into suitable width of about 1.20–1.50 m. Holes are made in the existing wall in the required points. Needles with bearing plates are then inserted through these holes and supported on jacks, Fig. 22.13. This is followed by excavation, first up to the existing foundation level and then to the required depth.

Figure 22.13 Pit method

During the process of excavation, the following precautions are to be taken to avoid formation of crakes or settlement:

1. Excavation should be done one at a time preferably starting at the middle and progressing sideways.
2. Proper timbering is to be provided to the excavated trenches.
3. Instead of central needle beam, cantilever needle beam may be adopted as shown in Fig. 22.14.
4. After completion of excavation, foundation concrete is laid.
5. A suitable connection between the old foundation and new foundation has to be made using vertical mild steel bars.
6. After the new foundation is completely set, then only the needle beams and raking shores are removed.

Figure 22.14 Support by cantilever needle

2. Pile Method

Pit method may be impracticable or uneconomical in the following cases:

1. Waterlogged area
2. Heavy loads on existing structures
3. Loads to be transferred to a deeper depth

In such situations pile method may be adopted.

In this method, the piles are driven along both the sides of the existing wall. Then needles in the form of pile caps are provided through the existing wall as shown in Fig. 22.15. Thus, the existing wall is relieved of the loads coming on it.

Figure 22.15 Underpinning by piles

This method is particularly useful in clayey soils and for waterlogged areas and for walls bearing heavy loads. In case of light structures piles are driven along the structure and then brackets or cantilever needles are provided.

In another approach, pre-cast piles are installed beneath the existing foundation using jacks and digging approach pits. The materials surrounding the pit is removed by water jets or air lifts and then filled with cement concrete.

3. Pier Method

This method is generally resorted to in dry ground. This is a simple method of underpinning. It involves the installation of piers under foundations of structures through the approach pits. Filling the pits with concrete and finally wedging up to transfer the loads to the new piers, Fig. 22.16.

Figure 22.16 Underpinning by pier

4. Chemical Method

In this method the foundation soil is consolidated by employing chemicals.

Perforated pipes are driver in an inclined direction beneath the foundation, Fig. 22.17. The slopes are provided such that the entire area under the existing footing corners under the area used to be strengthened.

Figure 22.17 Chemical method

After the pipes are installed, solution of sodium silicate in water is injected through the pipes. This is a two-injection method. The pipes are withdrawn and at the time of withdrawal of pipes, calcium or magnesium chloride is injected through the pipes. Chemical reaction takes place between these two chemicals and the soil is strengthened by consolidation. This method is suitable for granular soils.