Got that Sinking Feeling - Ground and Building Movement due to Design and Construction Decisions
A significant number of ground and building movement issues can be related back to their design and construction. Once the building is built, the issues are often costly to repair and/or remediate and the movement then needs to be managed throughout the life of the building as well.
This series is a short overview of the common mistakes made during the early life phases of buildings that I have been asked to assess for repair in the short to medium term of the buildings life cycle.?When I say short, I mean short, sometimes even before the occupancy date. The medium term is in the first 3-15 years of a buildings life, but even some of these are a direct result of new construction in the vicinity, either renovations - extensions, or construction on an adjoining property.
Please remember, no-one asks me to inspect their house because it is perfect! Australia has some great designers and builders, but I inspect buildings with issues.
Building over Exisiting Plumbing
Building over existing plumbing without providing protection for the plumbing is a far too common occurrence. The plumbing is often old, terracotta, galvanised steel or concrete pipes which crack with the weight of an extension’s footing on top of it. Cracking can also occur with PVC pipes that have had a footing placed on top of it.?This leads to saturation right at the footing, leading to either heave damage in the area, or weakening the soil leading to subsidence. It could also lead to health risks such as mould or sewerage under the house.
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When designing and constructing an extension, consideration must be given to rerouting or protecting the insitu services.
Mainmark can usually assist with the rectification of these sorts of issues, feel free to contact me.
Next Topic: The Accidental Retaining Wall (Watch this Space)