Screw pile underpinning for subsiding foundations
Stabilising foundations using permanent, structurally engineered methods to protect your home's integrity.
Book a Home Check-UpA permanent, structural, engineered solution to compromised foundations
Underpinning a building is the process of restoring the integrity of the foundation. It is required when the existing foundation has failed and, as a result, the structure begins sinking, cracking or is compromised in some related way.
Underpinning can be done using a few different methods: steel screw piles, concrete piers or grout injection. We exclusively use the screw pile underpinning method as it provides unique advantages over other methods. Steel piles are screwed into the ground to a depth that ensures a solid foundation, then concreted in place and securely integrated with the existing building.
Most importantly, our method allows a cost-effective reach to deeper depths, securing the structure below the zone of influence (ZOI): the soil layers that shrink and swell with seasonal variance. Methods that do not secure at this level are only a band-aid fix.
The advantages of screw pile underpinning
Screw piles offer a modern, engineered solution for underpinning that provides long-term structural stability, making them a standout choice for homes experiencing foundation movement.
Unlike polyurethane resin injection, which can be unpredictable in variable soil conditions, screw piles are mechanically installed deep into stable strata, ensuring the building is supported on solid, load-bearing ground. Each pile is installed with precise torque monitoring, giving engineers accurate, real-time feedback that confirms the integrity and load capacity of each pile. This controlled process is based on measurable data, not guesswork.
Because the piles are connected to the footing, hydraulic jacks can incrementally raise sections of the home as needed. This is especially useful for correcting subsidence, bringing the structure back to level in a stable, gradual way that reduces the risk of damage. Unlike mass concrete underpinning, Katana screw piles are quicker to install, cause minimal disruption and don't require extensive excavation.
- ✓ Engineered for precision
- ✓ Controlled lifting and level correction
- ✓ Minimal disruption to your property
- ✓ Long-term foundation stability
- ✓ Adaptable to a range of site conditions
- ✓ Environmentally sustainable
- ✓ Katana Codemarked screw piles
Our process
Before we begin
The foundation repair
After we've finished
How much does screw pile underpinning cost?
The cost of repairing a foundation using underpinning varies based on factors such as the extent of compromised foundation damage seen via floor levels, the size of the building, soil conditions, access conditions and permits needed.
We assess all these factors in advance and provide a line-by-line quote for complete transparency. Then we lock that cost in, so there are no surprises or hidden variables.
Underpinning Costs
FAQs
It varies based on each job, though most residential installations are completed in a matter of weeks. Once we understand the nature of your foundation problems, we will map out a timeline to give you clarity.
Installation is generally low-noise and low-impact compared to heavy excavation work. The main piece of machinery we use is a mini-excavator to access the foundation and install the Katana screw piles into the ground.
Structural re-levelling can close some cracks, but cosmetic repairs may still be needed. We can review this with you as part of our assessment and offer solutions for this too.
When properly designed and installed, screw piles provide a permanent solution, backed by structural warranties, not just product and labour warranties. They are purpose-designed by an engineer for your specific situation to support your home for the life of the structure.
In most areas, yes. We will typically handle this process for you. Once you decide, you can sit back and relax while we take care of everything.