Site Assessment: The initial phase involved a comprehensive assessment of each property. This included soil analysis, drainage system inspection, and a thorough examination of the foundation structure. It was revealed that the waffle pod slabs had settled unevenly due to inadequate soil compaction and drainage problems, leading to differential settlement and subsidence.
Solution Design: To rectify the subsidence issues, a multi-faceted approach was designed. This involved the injection of specialized chemical grouts, both internally and externally, to raise and stabilize the affected areas. Additionally, improvements were made to the drainage systems to prevent future subsidence problems.
Implementation: The injection works were executed systematically. Internal injections targeted the areas where cracks had formed, while external injections were performed along the perimeter of each house to lift and level the foundation. This process was carried out under the supervision of experienced engineers and technicians.
Quality Control: Throughout the project, quality control measures were implemented to ensure the success of the remediation. Real-time monitoring of subsidence levels, crack closure, and the stabilization of the foundations were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the chemical underpinning solution.
Several challenges were encountered during the project:
Coordination: Coordinating the work on multiple properties simultaneously required careful planning and resource allocation to meet the project timeline.
Weather Conditions: Weather fluctuations posed a challenge, as extreme temperatures and rainfall could affect the curing of the injected grout.
Client Communication: Ensuring clear and consistent communication with homeowners was crucial to managing expectations and addressing concerns.
Upon the completion of the project, the following results were achieved:
Subsidence Remediation: The injection works successfully lifted and stabilized the waffle pod foundations, eliminating the subsidence issues.
Crack Closure: Cracks in both interior and exterior walls were significantly reduced in size, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the houses.
Structural Stability: The properties regained their structural stability, ensuring the safety and comfort of the occupants.
Improved Drainage: Upgraded drainage systems were implemented to mitigate future subsidence risks.