Espit

You just bought a Victorian beauty. But as lovely as it may be, the telltale sag on the floor wasn’t what you had in mind. The house looks like it is doing an old-fashioned bow. So, what is a Melbournian going to do? Underpinning, mate. Rectify Underpinning is the key.

When your home behaves like a rebellious teenage, you can’t or shouldn’t ignore these signs. It’s the home’s way to say it needs serious TLC. Ground movement from Melbourne’s weather, outdated foundations, and soil compaction can all have a negative impact on your home. You, like me want to maintain that old-fashioned elegance while removing the tripping hazards.

Underpinning is a process that involves digging under the existing foundation and pouring cement to give it a fresh lease of life. Imagine your house getting those sturdy, orthopedic shoes that your grandmother swears by. You don’t have to cringe every time it creaks.

Melbourne’s building industry is full of innovative materials and methods that make this work not only efficient but fascinating. There are many methods, from mass concrete to beam and bases to piling. The house foundations are like a buffet; choose what is right for the situation.

Remember the time your uncle fixed his fence with a quick fix? Imagine doing this with your own house. Spoiler alert: this is not a good plan. It’s for this reason that you call in the professionals. They’re not just bringing in the big guns, they bring a whole arsenal. The experts are able to do soil testing, which is a science. The experts at AECOM are not just sledgehammers and hope. They do everything from soil testing to structural analysis.

Underpinnings are not a one-size fits all solution. Specialists may suggest mass concrete or mini-piles to strengthen weak soil. Imagine repairing a vintage clock. You’d rather have someone who can do the job right.

What is the cost? The elephant in the living room can be cost. It’s not cheap to do quality work, but if you bite the bullet now, it will save you money over the years. You can find a cowboy who will promise promises that are sweeter than Nana’s pavlova. Ask yourself: Do you want to risk the integrity of your house?

Mark told me about his story last month over coffee. In Melbourne’s cold winter, the house near Albert Park had sunk faster than his spirits. He found a trustworthy expert who walked through the options with him, like choosing the perfect avocado –firm but ready. After a few weeks, his house was standing proudly and steadfast. No more 2 am “house settling” noises, just quiet peace.

Melbournians are unique in their relationship with home. It’s quirky like Melbourne’s cafe scene and is often as old-fashioned as our love of football. The blend of modern and traditional, classic architecture and modern techniques makes underpinning seem almost poetic.

You may want to reconsider if you are glancing at that uneven floor. Consider your home a good friend in need of some support, both metaphorically and literally. Talk to professionals and learn what your house needs. Most importantly, make sure it lasts many decades more without a sag.

Here’s to making our Melbourne homes just as solid as our MCG pride. Today’s little investment can lead to a lot more peace tomorrow. Who wouldn’t want to toast this?