Understanding the underpinning of Melbourne is essential if you are building a house or own one useful link. Melbourne’s soil can either be a blessing or a curse for your foundation. Let’s go down this rabbit hole to find out.
Let’s begin with the basics. Melbourne has a diverse geo-profile. In the northern suburbs you will find clay soils and closer to Port Phillip Bay, sandy soils. It is important to understand the differences in soil compositions, such as the difference between sand and clay. Clay expands and contracts much more than your favorite pair of stretchy jeans. Sandy soil drains better but does not have the same heave-and-ho of clay.
Got clay soil? Hold on. Clay is a lover of moisture. It will drink it up like an ardent sailor and then puff up like marshmallows in hot chocolate. It shrivels in dry seasons. This constant dance could cause serious damage to your foundation. The floors of your home can tilt from one moment to the next.
The sandy soil around the bay may seem to be a blessing, but it has its own tricks. Sand drains extremely well and is less likely to swell. Its lack of solidity can cause your foundation to sink like a pancake when overloaded.
Every cloud has its silver lining. Compromised soil conditions don’t mean game over. It’s all about knowing the terrain and having a secret weapon. Enter underpinning. Underpinning is a way to reinforce and stabilize foundations. Like giving your home a pair of new sturdy boots.
Imagine that your neighbor Madge is always bragging about her garden. Madge’s home was built on clay. After a couple of rainy season, Madge’s home started to look like a Picasso-style painting. The walls were tilted and the floors were crooked. Madge’s house is now rock-solid thanks to some underpinning that was done well.