Basement underpinning is a specialized construction process aimed at strengthening and stabilizing a building’s foundation. Often undertaken to increase basement depth and create additional living or storage space, this method involves extending the foundation deeper into the ground.
As urban spaces become more compact, homeowners in areas like Toronto are increasingly turning to underpinning to maximize their property’s potential. Beyond space creation, underpinning also addresses foundation settlement issues, ensuring homes remain safe, secure, and structurally sound for years to come.
At WillFix, we understand that your home’s foundation is crucial to its safety, longevity, and overall structural integrity. Underpinning Toronto is one of the best ways to ensure that your foundation remains strong and resilient. Will Fix team professionally performs all types of basement underpinning and basement waterproofing from A to Z:
Our commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Our team of experts is trained in the latest underpinning techniques, ensuring your home gets the best care possible. When you partner with us, you can be confident in a job well done.
No other home improvement gives you so many benefits for such an affordable price as basement underpinning. Lowering your floor can add surprisingly a lot of value to your home and change your whole perception of your basement.
Your basement can be more than just a crawl space. Turn it into your favorite place.
We have certified engineers to do the drawings and save you from paperwork.
Check all plumbing and HVAC communications in the process to fix them easily.
Underpinning requires less paperwork and money than any other home addition.
Lowering the floor in your basement can significantly increase the value of your home and transform your perception of this space. This modification often brings an unexpected and substantial enhancement to your property.
Increased ventilation in the basement through strategically placed larger windows or vents helps in mitigating moisture issues, preventing the growth of mold and mildew, and ensuring a comfortable living space.
Basement lowering in Toronto provides homeowners with the opportunity to expand their living space vertically, effectively increasing the usable square footage of their homes.
A renovated basement with ample headroom and well-designed layouts adds to the overall appeal and desirability of your home, attracting potential buyers.
Basement lowering in Toronto involves reinforcing the foundation, ensuring that the structural integrity of your home remains intact.
Make your home a better place with no major trouble. Basement underpinning is a definitive upgrade, beneficial on multiple levels, and has no drawbacks. The most affordable and cost-effective major house addition for a wide spectrum of needs and priorities.
When your crawl space is 6ft high — you can’t do much with it. During basement underpinning our team will lower the floor to make it 8ft, 9ft high, or even more. Transform it into anything:
Underpinning gives you an opportunity to use a whole new space in your old home — without the long and troublesome process of building an extra floor or a home addition outside.
High-quality basement underpinning by Willfix can pay for itself over time and make you more money in the long run. Your basement can be an actual high-return investment:
No other house upgrade gives you that many possibilities and benefits with that few problems and obstacles along the way. Most of the other options are not even close.
The process of lowering your basement floor is a unique possibility to inspect all the communications that are hard to reach most of the time. Willfix experts can help you:
As the result, your home will have no hidden timebombs of structural issues and will look better from the outside. Foundation safety and stability come free with your new extra basement floor.
In the last 20 years, we performed over a thousand projects all across Toronto. We’re proud of our reputation and always appreciate the kind words from satisfied clients:
All basements are unique in terms of construction, condition, and location. Half the basic steps in underpinning might be unnecessary for your basement floor lowering. Our experts can implement multiple time-tested methods and technologies to find the most efficient solution.
Both are standard methods of expanding your basement space. As we already mentioned, underpinning involves strengthening the existing foundation by extending it deeper into the ground, providing you with increased headroom and usable space. This method is ideal for homeowners looking to maximize their basement’s potential and create a seamless, integrated living area.
On the other hand, basement benching involves excavating the basement floor to create a step-like structure, effectively lowering a portion of the floor while leaving the rest intact. This method is a cost-effective alternative when complete underpinning is not necessary or feasible. It allows for some additional space and can be an excellent option for those on a tighter budget.
The choice between underpinning and benching depends on factors such as:
In case you’re looking for the best quality for a fair price — the Willfix team is ready to commit and help you with any wet basement issues. We understand that you wouldn’t trust a complete stranger with your basement safety, your family’s health, and your comfort. Here are a few facts about us so we don’t feel like a stranger anymore: (Numbers and this paragraph stay the same; icons are new.)
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
SATISFIED CLIENTS
EXPERTS IN THE TEAM
YEARS WARRANTY
Willfix’s licensing means we are well-versed in local building codes and regulations. This ensures that all toronto underpinning projects not only meet but often exceed the requisite standards, saving homeowners potential legal and structural headaches in the future.
With a licensed contractor like Willfix, you’re not just paying for a service; you’re investing in peace of mind. Every step of the basement underpinning process adheres to strict safety guidelines, ensuring the well-being of both your property and its occupants.
We have access to the latest industry tools and technology. Willfix team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and methods, ensuring that your underpinning project is both modern and durable.
With a deep understanding of the underpinning process, Willfix can provide accurate estimates and avoid unforeseen costs. This means homeowners can budget effectively, confident in the transparency and fairness of the project’s written estimate.
Navigating the bureaucratic maze of obtaining the necessary permits can be daunting. As a licensed contractor, we have the experience and connections to expedite this process, ensuring all work is compliant and authorized without undue delays.
With a deep understanding of the underpinning process, Willfix can provide accurate estimates and avoid unforeseen costs. This means homeowners can budget effectively, confident in the transparency and fairness of the project’s written estimate.
Basement underpinning is a complicated process that requires multiple skilled professionals: certified engineers, experts in foundation structures, concrete work, and multiple sets of specialized equipment.
Willfix team is doing it for over 20 years now and we have everything we may need for the top quality floor lowering project — from skills and expertise to certifications.
8 Steps of Basement Underpinning:
Our team’s certified engineer will examine the basement, the plans, and will do the drawings. It’s crucial to get a permit for any underpinning project.
We’ll get rid of the old concrete in your basement floor and dig out the soil that was underneath to make space and increase the overall height.
Following the engineer’s drawings, we’ll add and replace the sections between your foundation and footing with new concrete to make it firm.
We’ll lower the plumbing and make sure it works right. It’s the best stage to address all the issues in your communications or foundation structure.
We’ll add a drainage system to protect the new basement structure from the water and secure the area with a thick gravel layer.
We’ll pour your new concrete floor, strengthen it, make sure it’s even, and smooth it out. In the end, it will look better than the old one.
Our team leaves no mess — we’ll make sure the area is nice and clean before we leave you with your successfully lowered new basement floor.
You have a professionally lowered floor and a whole new area in your house. You’ll have no issues with it in the next 25 years — or we’ll fix them for free.
Basement underpinning is a method of lowering the basement floor that increases the structural strength of a foundation.
In short, your basement floor is excavated, and your walls are reinforced with a new layer of concrete. It’s an extremely oversimplified explanation, but that’s essentially how basement underpinning works, technology-wise.
There are several different types of materials used, including reinforced concrete, steel and sometimes — timber constructions. Depending on each individual case, some installations may also include waterproofing measures to prevent water from entering the foundation walls.
Concrete: Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials for basement underpinning. It’s durable enough and easily adjustable at the same time.
Steel: Another alternative approach is steel underpinning. Steel beams are welded to the existing foundation walls and are then filled with concrete giving the steel greater strength. You won’t see this method often in residential areas in Canada, but it’s still one of the most cost-effective options when pure concrete is not enough.
Timber: Basement underpinning can also be done using timber units. It’s less commonly used because it tends to cost more than other methods and is significantly less reliable.
Underpinning is an upgrade, not a necessity, so there’s no strong “should” in this question. However, you may WANT to do basement underpinning, given that it’s the most cost-efficient upgrade you can get, with multiple other benefits.
Here are some extra conditions that can help you make a decision, whether you should underpin your basement, or not. You may need it, if:
Basement renovation project time can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. On average, a basement renovation can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks. However, this timeline can be affected by factors such as the size of the basement, the extent of the renovations, any structural modifications required, and unforeseen issues that may arise during the construction process.
The cost of a basement renovation can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the basement, the level of finishes and customization desired, the complexity of the project, and the location. On average, a basement renovation can range from $30,000 to $75,000 or more. It’s essential to consult with Will Fix, a professional contractor who can assess your specific needs and provide a detailed cost estimate based on your requirements.
In most cases, a permit is required for a basement renovation. The specific permit requirements can vary based on local building codes and regulations. Generally, if your renovation involves structural changes, electrical or plumbing work, or changes to the egress points, such as windows or doors, a permit will likely be required. It’s essential to check with your local building department or consult with a professional contractor to determine the specific permit requirements for your basement renovation project.
No, you can’t underpin your basement yourself. Even though technically you can, according to current Ontario laws, it would be illegal.
Basement underpinning implies major structural changes in your home’s foundation, so it has to be safe and well-planned. Unless you have a certification — you need to hire a professional company for your basement underpinning project, that will have a certified engineer on the team and will be able to do all the paperwork properly.
The time we’ll need for your underpinning project heavily depends on your basement structure, its condition, and the materials.
Typically, a basement underpinning process takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish.
You may think that it’s too long, but keep in mind that it’s a lot of work — not a quick crack repair. The drawings, excavation, foundation works, concrete works, sealing, all of it takes time. It’s a complex process with multiple steps, and each of them involves a dozen more steps.
We have more than 20 years of experience in working with foundations, each member of the Willfix team has no less than 10 years of experience, so we know how to make it effectively in the shortest possible time, without sacrificing the quality.
In case you’ll find a quality that will promise you a full-scale basement underpinning in 3 days — they probably have no idea what they’re doing and just want to disappear with your money.
Yes, you sure can lower your basement floor without underpinning. It’s just the most cost-efficient of many commonly used technologies — not the only one.
Benching is the second most popular way to lower you basement floor, and Willfix experts can do it as well. We recommend basement underpinning over benching to our clients because it has more benefits in the long run. You don’t lose any living space and the square footage of your basement remains the same.
Basement underpinning includes a drainage system installation, but protecting your basement from the water’s degrading effects is a whole different project. Lowering the floor by itself does not protect you from the old mold, wall cracks, or dangerously high humidity.
Our experts are ready to help you with any wet basement issues. Willfix team provides basement waterproofing services in the Toronto area for 20 years now.
Exterior (and commonly called “external”) basement waterproofing is the way to protect your basement from the outside, so the water does not make it to the inner side of your basement walls at all. It’s a time-tested and reliable solution that the majority of our clients prefer.
Exterior basement waterproofing might be a better option when:
The Willfix team has over 20 years of experience in exterior basement waterproofing and we’re ready to commit.
Interior (or sometimes called internal) basement waterproofing means that no works take place on the outside of your basement. Instead, the water is channeled away from the basement through a complex draining system.
Interior basement waterproofing might be a better option if:
Willfix experts are experienced in interior basement waterproofing and we’re ready to commit.
Concrete forming allows you to build brand new structures for any of your project needs. Our experts can accomplish residential and commercial projects regardless of the complexity of the task:
The Willfix team has more than 20 years of experience and we guarantee that only the best materials and machinery will be used in your concrete forming project.
You can’t waterproof a foundation that has long exceeded its purpose. Increased humidity, cracks and leaks are major red flags. Even a tiny foundation crack is a threat not just to your comfort, but to your home’s safety as well.
You need foundation crack repair in case:
We have been helping Toronto residents to fix their basements for over 20 years now and have all the necessary certifications for it.
Concrete in your basement walls was never made to last for ages and withstand the immense water pressure from the soil. The walls bend and bow, deform and lose the structural soundness. The best way to fix the issue is to repair the damaged area.
The Willfix team has over 20 years of experience in concrete crack repairs. We know how to do it right:
A concrete crack repair is never the final solution because it doesn’t protect your walls from the groundwater’s degrading effects, but it’s enough to restore your foundation’s original structure.
Basement cracks are relatively harmless when small, but the frequent rainfalls, snowy winters, and sometimes — extreme temperature changes can make a small crack expand dramatically overnight.
For every basement crack repair, whether the crack is around the window frame, on the floor, or on the wall — we have a professional solution:
The only unchanging aspect is the result: you get your problem fixed with no chances for it to appear ever again.
Epoxy crack injection is the fastest and the least expensive way to fix a crack in your basement. It’s one of the most popular wet basement repair methods, but it won’t work with cracks that already leak — only with the ones that are potentially dangerous.
Epoxy crack injection is the perfect option for basement repair when:
Willfix professionals use only high-quality epoxy with commercial-grade ports that leave no chances to the tiniest hollow spots in your basement walls.
Your home deserves nothing but the best protection against the wrath of Mother Nature. With Will Fix’s exterior basement waterproofing, you’ll receive an impenetrable barrier that shields your basement from water damage. The benefits? A drier, safer home, reduced chances of mold growth, and an increase in property value. This proactive measure ensures your home remains sturdy, irrespective of the torrential downpours or melting snow. Our eco-friendly solutions not only safeguard your property but also enhance its aesthetic appeal. Why wait for a rainy day? Waterproof now for lasting peace of mind.
Transform your basement into a dry, inviting space with Will Fix’s interior basement waterproofing services. This solution efficiently redirects water away from your home’s foundation. By choosing our services, you’re ensuring a healthy living environment, minimizing the risks of mold, and enhancing your home’s integrity. Plus, a dry basement means extended living space and increased home value. Secure your investment today and enjoy the rewards for years to come.
The foundation is the backbone of your home. When it’s compromised, so is your safety. Our foundation repair service reinforces the very ground your house stands on. This ensures longevity, stability, and peace of mind. Say goodbye to uneven floors, wall cracks, and a depreciating home value.
Even the tiniest crack can invite unwanted moisture and pests into your home. At Will Fix, our basement crack repair service offers an efficient and durable solution. We close the doors to potential water damage, mold growth, and energy losses. Investing in crack repair not only safeguards your living space but also boosts your property’s resale value.
Transform your outdoor spaces with Will Fix’s premium interlocking services. We provide designs that fuse style, durability, and functionality. Whether it’s driveways, walkways, or patios, our interlocking solutions stand the test of time, weather, and daily use. A revamped outdoor area not only elevates your home’s curb appeal but also its value.
Willfix professionals are well-acquainted with the intricacies of the Greater Toronto Area and possess the required expertise to handle any basement underpinning and basement waterproofing task in any city. We understand that the challenges of cold winters, regular rain, and soil stability concerns can threaten the integrity of basements and foundation walls across all neighborhoods.
