Basement Underpinning In Toronto

If you are looking to increase the basement space within your home, consider a basement underpinning in Scarborough, Toronto with Elite Construction and Renovations. Why move to a new neighbourhood or house with more room when you have the available space under your feet?

Whether you want to be able to use the increased basement space for your family, guest quarters, or as potential rental income, we can make your vision come to light! 

As one of the leading basement underpinning companies in Scarborough, Toronto, Elite Construction and Renovations has the expertise and manpower to ensure all details of this complex process are completed with minimal disruption to your household. 

What Is Basement Underpinning?

Basement underpinning is a process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of an existing building or structure. It involves digging out the soil around the foundation walls and basement walls and installing new concrete or steel supports to transfer the load to a deeper and more stable soil layer.

Using an engineered plan, the structural integrity of the house is kept intact as the floor is excavated deeper into the ground.

By physically lowering the basement floor, your home will obtain a larger basement space without building an addition on top of the house. This increases the basement ceiling height by opening up the entire underneath to become a larger area of space.

Basement underpinning can be done for various reasons, such as:

• To increase the height and usable space of a basement.
• To repair cracks and damages caused by settlement or subsidence.
• To accommodate an adjacent excavation or construction project.
• To improve the structural integrity and safety of a building.

Steps for Basement Underpinning

Underpinning entails several complex steps, all of which require the planning and execution of underpinning contractors, certified engineers, architects and skilled labourers. Here at Elite Construction and Renovations, we have the experience, tools and knowledge to ensure all structural modifications are done properly. 

We work with the Toronto homeowners to plan and prepare the site before any demolition work begins.

Demolition

Before work begins, all portable items are removed. Demolition entails sectioning off portions of the basement to ensure the structural integrity is maintained throughout the underpinning process. 

Each section is demolished one at a time until the proper water drainage is installed. The onsite engineer will mark off which sections should be demolished. The heavy concrete is removed with the use of tools and state-of-the-art equipment that our team members are trained in using. 

Soil Extraction

With extracting the soil, the depth depends on the original planning by the homeowner and the engineer and architect. Lowering the basement can be done several feet beneath the existing foundation floor. 

Inspections

Throughout each underpinning stage, inspections will be done by Toronto Building Inspectors as well as by our team at Elite Construction and Renovations as work is being done. Our experts ensure the integrity of the house is not compromised. The various levels of demolition and soil excavation can cause issues if not attended to properly.

Waterproofing

Once the demolition and soil extraction are completed, the focus turns to waterproofing the entire basement. Through age and damage from fluctuating temperatures and environmental elements, the basement is a common place for water to seep in from the ground or leak through the pipes. 

A flood-proof drainage system will be installed and connected to prevent any water issues in the months and years to come. It is an excellent time to have a sump pump system installed in basements where flooding has been an issue in previous years. Testing of the new drains and all plumbing will be performed before work continues with gravel being laid. 

Insulation

One of the big advantages for underpinning a basement is the opportunity to have the new living space properly insulated. While the extra floor space adds more livable area, the basement can have a drafty damp feeling, even with a makeover.

Adding insulation and underfloor heating, like the popular radiant in-floor heating system, can improve the living conditions, regardless of the intended room use. A well-heated basement can also help with keeping the floors on the main floor warm.

Laying New Slab

Once the plumbing, electrical, water drainage and sewer lines are attended to, the next step is laying the new concrete slab. A waterproof liner will protect the concrete from the underlying gravel. The knowledgeable team at Elite Construction and Renovations will ensure the concrete is poured correctly and that it results in a smooth surface that is durable and long-lasting. 

Benefits of Basement Underpinning

Basement underpinning can provide many benefits for homeowners and property owners, such as:

• Increasing the value and appeal of your property by adding more living space, storage space or recreational space.
• Enhancing the comfort and functionality of your basement by improving the ventilation, lighting, insulation and drainage.
• Preventing further damage and deterioration of your foundation and basement walls by addressing the root causes of settlement or subsidence.
• Reducing the risk of water infiltration, mold growth, pest infestation and structural failure by strengthening and waterproofing your foundation and basement walls.

The Cost of Basement Underpinning in Toronto

Basement underpinning is a complex and specialized project that requires careful planning, design and engineering before any work begins. The costs of basement underpinning can vary depending on several factors, such as:

• The size and condition of your basement and foundation.
• The type and depth of underpinning method used.
• The soil type and groundwater level at your site.
• The permits and approvals required by your local authorities.
• The quality and experience of your underpinning contractors.

According to some estimates, the average cost of underpinning in Toronto is $500 per linear foot. However, this is only a rough guide and the actual cost may differ depending on your specific situation and needs. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with our underpinning contractors who can provide you with a detailed and accurate quote based on a thorough inspection and assessment of your property.

Service Areas

Elite Construction and Renovations offer all of our services, including basement underpinning, in the following neighbourhoods: 

• Toronto
• Scarborough
• The Beaches
• Don Valley
• Leslieville
• Danforth
• East York
• Leaside
• Pickering

Why Choose Elite Construction and Renovations For Basement Underpinning?

Wondering why you should choose Elite Construction and Renovations? Here are just some of the benefits of working with our knowledgeable team.

Years of Experience 

With more than 18 years in the construction and renovation business, Elite Construction and Renovations has the expertise, experience and knowledge to help you bring your vision to life! Our team of certified sub-contractors have been working with us for years.

Two-Year Warranty

At Elite Construction and Renovations, we provide a full two-year guarantee on all workmanship by our crew and honour all warranties offered by our partnering manufacturers. 

Contact Us Today for a Free Quote

If you are interested in basement underpinning or any other basement remodelling service, please contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We will visit your property, inspect your basement and foundation, discuss your goals and expectations, answer your questions and provide you with a detailed quote for your project.

Don’t wait any longer to transform your basement into a more spacious, comfortable and valuable space. Call us today at (416) 888-8417 to get started.