Building Confidence from the Ground Up

Every great building starts with a solid foundation. But over time, even the strongest foundations can shift, settle, or weaken — especially in areas like Devonport, where changing soil conditions and moisture levels can challenge structural stability.

That’s where underpinning comes in.

At Mirage Building & Construction, we specialise in foundation stabilisation and underpinning services that strengthen and secure existing structures. Whether you’re dealing with cracked walls, sloping floors, or signs of foundation movement, our team provides reliable, long-term solutions designed for Devonport’s unique environment.

We don’t just fix problems — we restore confidence in your home or building’s stability.

 

What Is Underpinning?

Underpinning is the process of strengthening or stabilising an existing foundation that has shifted, settled, or failed to bear the weight of a structure properly. It involves reinforcing the base of your home or building to restore its integrity and prevent further movement.

Depending on the situation, underpinning can include traditional concrete reinforcement, screw pile installation, or a combination of methods — all designed to secure your foundation from the ground up.

At Mirage Building, we assess every property individually and select the most effective, least disruptive method to bring your structure back to strength.

 

Why Foundations Move in Devonport

The soils and environment around Devonport can be unpredictable. From coastal exposure to clay shrinkage, a range of local factors can contribute to foundation movement.

Common causes include:

1. Reactive Clay Soils
   These soils expand when wet and contract when dry. The repeated cycle of swelling and shrinking can cause foundations to move or crack.

2. Moisture Variation
   Changes in drainage, leaking pipes, or inconsistent watering near foundations can destabilise soil over time.

3. Poorly Compacted Fill
   In newer developments, fill soils may not be compacted adequately, leading to gradual settling.

4. Tree Roots and Vegetation
   Large trees near your home draw moisture from the soil, causing shrinkage and uneven movement.

5. Ageing or Deterioration
   Over decades, older buildings naturally settle, and their materials may begin to weaken.

6. Groundwater or Erosion
   Areas with high rainfall or poor drainage can experience soil washout beneath slabs and footings.

The good news? Underpinning can correct these issues and restore your property’s structural balance.

 

Signs You Might Need Underpinning

Foundation movement often starts subtly, but early signs can indicate a deeper issue. Watch out for:

• Cracks in internal or external walls

• Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly

• Gaps appearing between walls and ceilings

• Uneven or sloping floors

• Visible sinking or movement around the base of your home

• Cracks in concrete slabs or tiles

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to call the experts at Mirage Building for a foundation inspection. Acting early can prevent costly structural repairs later on.

 

Our Underpinning Process

We take a structured, professional approach to every underpinning job. No two homes are alike, and we tailor our process to match the soil conditions, building type, and extent of movement.

1. Site Inspection and Assessment

We start with a detailed site visit to assess your home’s condition, identify the cause of movement, and evaluate soil performance. This helps us determine the most effective stabilisation approach.

2. Engineering Consultation

We collaborate with qualified structural engineers to design a solution that meets both structural needs and Australian building standards.

3. Underpinning Design

Depending on the site, we may use:

• Traditional mass concrete underpinning

• Screw piles (helical piles) for deeper stability

• Combination methods for complex sites

The goal is always the same — restore strength and stability safely.

4. Installation or Excavation

Our team carefully excavates or installs supports beneath existing footings, ensuring minimal disruption to your property and landscaping.

5. Reinforcement and Load Transfer

Once the new underpinning elements are installed, we transfer the load from the unstable areas to the new supports. This effectively rebalances your foundation.

6. Finishing and Clean-Up

We restore the surrounding area to its original condition as much as possible, leaving your site clean and structurally sound.

7. Final Checks

Before we consider the job complete, we perform thorough inspections to ensure the building is secure and the underpinning has performed as expected.

Our systematic process gives homeowners peace of mind that their property is safe and supported.

 

Types of Underpinning Methods We Use

1. Traditional Mass Concrete Underpinning

This classic method involves digging sections under the existing footing and pouring high-strength concrete in stages to deepen and stabilise the foundation.
It’s ideal for smaller movements and older homes.

2. Screw Pile Underpinning

Screw piles are steel shafts with helical plates that are screwed deep into the ground. They are excellent for properties with poor soil or limited access and can be installed with minimal vibration and excavation.
They also allow immediate load transfer — a major time-saver for homeowners.

3. Hybrid or Custom Solutions

In some cases, we combine traditional underpinning and screw piles to suit complex structures or difficult soil profiles.
Every job is engineered specifically for long-term success.

 

Benefits of Underpinning

Underpinning isn’t just about fixing cracks — it’s about protecting your biggest asset.

Here’s what a professionally underpinned foundation offers:

• Restored Structural Integrity
  Stops movement, stabilises your home, and prevents further damage.

• Enhanced Property Value
  A solid, stable foundation improves resale value and buyer confidence.

• Peace of Mind
  Knowing your home is structurally sound brings long-term reassurance.

• Protection Against Future Damage
  Correcting the problem early prevents larger issues like wall collapse or slab separation.

• Improved Safety
  Stabilising the base of your structure ensures walls, floors, and roofs stay aligned and safe.

For many Devonport homeowners, underpinning is both a practical and preventative investment.

 

Underpinning vs. Rebuilding

Some property owners worry that severe foundation damage means a rebuild is the only option. In most cases, that’s not true.

Underpinning can restore an existing foundation without demolishing or replacing your structure. It’s far less invasive, faster, and significantly more cost-effective than reconstruction.

Mirage Building’s specialists assess your property first to ensure that underpinning is the right solution. If rebuilding is required, we’ll be honest and help guide your decision.

 

Common Questions About Underpinning

Q: Is underpinning disruptive?
Our modern methods are designed to minimise disturbance. Many projects can be completed while you remain in your home.

Q: How long does it take?
Project duration depends on soil conditions and structure size, but most residential jobs take between one and three weeks.

Q: Can underpinning stop cracks from returning?
Yes — by stabilising the foundation, we stop further movement. Cracks can then be repaired permanently.

Q: What areas do you service?
We serve Devonport and the surrounding regions across Northern Tasmania.

Q: Do you work with engineers?
Absolutely. Every underpinning job is assessed and designed in collaboration with a qualified structural engineer.

 

When to Call the Experts

If your home shows early warning signs of movement, don’t wait until cracks widen or floors tilt. Early intervention can prevent major damage.

Contacting an experienced underpinning specialist like Mirage Building & Construction ensures the right solution from the start — saving time, stress, and money.

We’re here to help homeowners in Devonport protect their properties and preserve structural safety for the long haul.

 

Why Choose Mirage Building for Underpinning in Devonport

• Local Experience
  We know Devonport’s soil types, weather patterns, and construction standards.

• Comprehensive Solutions
  From screw piles to traditional methods, we tailor our approach to each site.

• Precision and Professionalism
  Every underpinning project is managed with care, communication, and compliance.

• Minimal Disruption
  Our techniques reduce excavation, noise, and downtime.

• Quality Materials
  We use high-grade steel and concrete for durability and performance.

• Personal Service
  We take pride in being approachable, reliable, and easy to deal with.

At Mirage Building, underpinning isn’t just about construction — it’s about trust. When you choose us, you’re choosing local experts who genuinely care about getting your foundation right.

 

Protecting Homes Across Devonport

We’ve worked on a wide range of properties — from coastal homes affected by erosion to heritage cottages needing careful foundation repair. Each job is handled with precision, care, and full respect for the client’s property.

Whether your project involves stabilising a family home, investment property, or commercial building, we bring the same level of commitment and skill to every site.

Our goal? To make sure your home stands strong for generations to come.

 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Foundation Movement

1. Document the Damage
   Take photos of cracks, sloping floors, or separation lines as they appear.

2. Avoid Quick Fixes
   Patching cracks without addressing the underlying cause only delays the problem.

3. Call an Expert
   Contact Mirage Building for a professional assessment and quote.

4. Get an Engineering Opinion
   We’ll coordinate with structural engineers to confirm the safest solution.

5. Book Your Underpinning
   Once approved, we’ll begin stabilising your foundation promptly and carefully.

A strong home starts with a solid plan — and we’re here to provide it.

 

Our Commitment to Quality

At Mirage Building & Construction, quality isn’t just in the materials we use — it’s in how we communicate, plan, and deliver results.
We take the time to explain the process, keep you informed, and ensure every underpinning job meets professional standards.

You’ll get personal attention from start to finish and a foundation built to stand the test of time.

If your Devonport property is showing signs of foundation movement or cracking, now’s the time to act.

Contact Mirage Building & Construction for expert underpinning and foundation stabilisation services.
Our team will inspect your site, design the right solution, and restore confidence in your property’s strength.

Call or reach out through our website, miragebuilding.com.au, to schedule your consultation.

Your home deserves a foundation you can depend on, and that’s exactly what we deliver.