What is the difference between restumping and underpinning?
Ever wondered why some homes need to be underpinned while others may need restumping click to read more. It can be difficult to navigate these terms. Let’s deconstruct it. What is underpinning, exactly? It’s all about improving the foundations of a structure. Maybe you’ve noticed cracks or uneven floors in your home. You may need to consider underpinning your home.
Restumping is the process of replacing old stumps, or pylons as they are sometimes called, under a home. Older homes were often built on concrete or timber stumps that deteriorated over time. Imagine a house that is resting on toothpicks, slowly deteriorating. That’s what we are dealing with.
Restumping, from a structural perspective, is more about giving your home a new set of legs. You got it? Awesome. How do you choose the right one for your home? Here’s a handy cheat sheet to help you.
Sinking foundations can be the cause of your floor feeling like a rollercoaster or your house tilting like the Tower of Pisa. If you notice that your doors and windows are acting stubbornly, it could be a sinking foundation. Underpinning is the answer. More solid foundations equal fewer cracks, and a more stable house.
Restumping is the solution when old stumps die. Replace them with more durable materials such as galvanized steel, concrete or even concrete. Imagine replacing your old, worn out sneakers with a brand new pair. The comfort and stability will be increased.
Let’s talk about the costs. Due to its complexity, underpinning is a more expensive fix. Restumping is usually cheaper, but it can cost more if you want to do a complete overhaul. Although they are different, both processes have the same goal: to keep your house looking beautiful and strong.