Checking the foundation after underpinning
The foundation is the most important part of building maintenance site here. The foundation stability and durability are preserved and faults can be identified before they become costly. Engineers and property owners monitor foundations by using old and innovative methods.
Visual inspections can be a very effective way to identify errors. Qualified Inspectors can spot new or increasing foundation fractures and wall fractures. They also notice changes to the alignment of floors or floor levels, and other shifting indicators, such as doors and windows not closing in their frames. These inspections should be well documented to track and identify structural integrity trends, as well as unexpected alterations.
Monitoring foundations requires both technology and visual inspections. Electronic monitoring systems that include inclinometers with strain gauges is one of the most sophisticated methods. These devices will be strategically installed in the foundation or soil. Inclinometers and strain gauges are both used to detect small changes in foundation wall angles.
GPR is used to measure the strength of foundations following underpinning by geotechnical specialists. GPR systems are designed to send radio waves deep into the ground and measure their reflection by subsurface structures. Engineers are able to examine these reflections in order to locate soil or structure voids, fissures or discrepancies.
Laser scanning can also be used to monitor foundations. This method can provide comprehensive 3D maps of the surrounding area and foundation that can be updated for movement or degradation. Laser scanning can detect shifts as small as a few millimeters. This makes it a highly-resolution method for long-term inspection of foundations.
Hydrostatic level monitors are another way to identify uneven foundation movement. They use fluid-filled tubing around the foundation. Fluid levels in tubes fluctuate when the foundation shifts. This indicates movement areas and extent. This strategy works for large projects where there are multiple monitoring points.
A structural engineer must often assess data to determine the best way to proceed. The engineer may adjust monitoring methods based on the dangers that are present in a particular location. For example, high water levels, seismic activity or heavy urban traffic.