09 Jul Basement Underpinning Project for a Home in Vaughan

KEY STATS

Project Success Metrics

• Delivered on time and within budget
• 9.9/10 customer satisfaction
• $30,000 total project cost
• 80% local labor
• 100% local supplier spend

Building Stats

• 1,200 sq ft basement underpinning
• Installation of new structural supports
• Upgraded waterproofing and drainage system
• Enhanced energy-efficient insulation
• Reinforcement of foundation walls

INTRODUCTION

Initial Assessment and Planning

The project began with a detailed inspection of the existing basement and foundation. The homeowner had experienced moisture issues and minor structural cracks, limiting the use of the basement. Our team identified key weaknesses and developed a comprehensive plan to address these issues.

Excavation

Careful excavation was necessary to avoid destabilizing the home. The area around the foundation was excavated in controlled segments. During this phase, we discovered remnants of an old drainage system that had been contributing to the moisture issues. This system was removed and replaced with a modern drainage solution.

Installation of Underpinning Pits

Small sections of the foundation, known as underpinning pits, were excavated to the required depth. Concrete was poured to create new, deeper footings. The homeowner and their children were fascinated by the process and often visited the site to observe and learn about the underpinning techniques.

Reinforcement

Steel reinforcements were added to the new footings to ensure they could support the building’s load and the anticipated additional usage of the basement. These reinforcements were integrated with the existing foundation to create a unified structural system.

Structural Supports

Hydraulic jacks were used to support and lift the foundation where necessary, ensuring an even base. This phase required precise coordination to minimize disruption to the family living in the home.

Waterproofing and Drainage

Advanced waterproofing membranes were applied to the basement walls and floors to protect against future moisture issues. A new drainage system was installed to effectively direct water away from the foundation. The homeowner noticed an immediate improvement in the basement’s dryness and air quality.

Insulation and Finishing

Energy-efficient insulation was added to improve thermal performance, making the basement suitable for a home gym and family room. The final touches included high-quality wall and floor finishes, transforming the basement into a clean and secure space.

BUDGET ALLOCATION

The total project cost of $30,000 was allocated across various essential components and services to ensure a comprehensive and high-quality underpinning process:

• Initial Assessment and Planning: $2,500
  • Detailed inspection of the basement and foundation, development of a project plan, and initial consultation.
• Excavation: $5,000
  • Careful and controlled excavation around the foundation, including the removal and replacement of an old drainage system.
• Underpinning Pits and Concrete Work: $8,000
  • Excavation of underpinning pits, pouring of concrete to create new footings, and integration with the existing foundation.
• Reinforcement: $4,500
  • Installation of steel reinforcements to support the building’s load and ensure structural stability.
• Structural Supports: $3,500
  • Use of hydraulic jacks to support and lift the foundation as necessary.
• Waterproofing and Drainage: $4,000
  • Application of advanced waterproofing membranes and installation of a new drainage system.
• Insulation and Finishing: $2,500
  • Addition of energy-efficient insulation and high-quality wall and floor finishes.

OUR APPROACH

Delivered on time and within budget, the project overcame several challenges. By working closely with the supply chain and the client, we implemented innovative, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to various issues identified during ground investigations, such as high water tables and existing foundation cracks. These challenges were identified and resolved early to avoid impacting the project timeline.

Our team navigated significant challenges posed by unexpected weather conditions and material shortages. To address these issues, we sourced alternative materials locally, ensuring timely delivery and cost-efficiency. This proactive approach allowed us to maintain the project schedule and budget.

We utilized advanced underpinning techniques, including the use of hydraulic jacks and specialized concrete mixtures, to ensure the new foundation was strong and stable. Additionally, we incorporated state-of-the-art waterproofing systems to protect the basement from potential water damage.

SOCIAL IMPACT

The project had a positive impact on the local community by supporting local businesses and trades. By utilizing 100% local suppliers and 80% local labor, we boosted the local economy and provided jobs for residents. The improved basement space allowed the homeowner to source more local products for their home gym and family room, further supporting nearby suppliers and businesses.

Additionally, the energy-efficient upgrades made during the project contributed to the homeowner’s sustainability efforts, reducing their environmental footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices in the community.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 97 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ingrid Caroline Muniz 
 
 
 
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We had a great experience, this is definitely a reliable and highly professional company!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Andrew Ling 
 
 
 
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Happy with their work - Mike and his team are dedicated, responsive, and hard working - you won't be disappointed.  Did a double under pin on a 70 year old house, no problems.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Pradeep Neupane 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Approaching the underpinning of our 70-year-old home was initially daunting, but the team delivered exceptional results that far exceeded our expectations. The worksite was meticulously maintained, the project adhered to the budget, and completion was achieved ahead of schedule. Tom’s outstanding communication and his prompt, professional responses to any queries or concerns greatly enhanced our experience. We confidently and wholeheartedly recommend VMB.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Shisir Khanal 
 
 
 
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This is a reliable and highly professional company with an exceptional team of skilled and innovative workers. Tom, in particular, stands out for his excellence.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Karan Verma 
 
 
 
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Good working with genuine price. Everyone should try this
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Jahid Hassan 
 
 
 
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Excellent place highly recommended tom was great they did their work really fast
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ishwor Karki 
 
 
 
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I recently hired them and was beyond thrilled with the results. Their team was professional and efficient every step of the way. They truly are the best in the industry! Thank you for an exceptional job!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Simon Broer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Vlad and the team at VMB are the best of the best!

They just finished a basement walkout for a project I have ongoing in Mississauga and two of my subcontractors and the inspector commented on how it was some of the best concrete work they had seen, and how they were fast, clean, and incredibly accurate!

As a homeowner or general contractor I could not recommend them highly enough!
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
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CONCLUSION

This basement underpinning project in Vaughan is a prime example of how innovative solutions and a collaborative approach can overcome challenges and deliver outstanding results. The project not only improved the safety and functionality of the home’s basement but also contributed to the local community by supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices. This case study demonstrates our commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver complex projects on time and within budget.