Get a Free Consultation
Contact us!
Get a Free Consultation

  

Professional Basement Lowering & Underpinning in Toronto

Contact Us





    Professional Basement Lowering & Underpinning in Toronto

    Google Reviews Logo
    We're Highly Recommended Badge
    WISB ONTARIO
    HomeStars Logo
    G1000 Home is offering you a guarantee of satisfaction with any project we undertake.
    VERIFIED CBRB 2024 badge
    BBB logo

    Contact Us





      Unlock the full potential of your basement by increasing head room / leaving space and functionality.

      Me and my team have specialized in transforming your basement into a valuable living space for over 2 decades through our expert substructure and basement lowering services.

      Whether you’re looking to expand your home’s footprint, increase its market value, or simply create a more comfortable and functional living environment, we’re here to turn your vision into reality.

      Below, we outline the step-by-step process of lowering a basement, along with the pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision for your home.

      Let us help you transform your basement into a functional and inviting area that adds value and enhances your lifestyle at the same time.

      Benching or bench footing looks like

      bench waterproofing
      finish bench
      forming bench
      waterproofing bench
      bench footing rebar
      rebar bench
      benching or footing

      What you should Know Before Underpinning Starts

      UNDERPINNING SECTION OF BASEMENT

       

      Pros to lower your basement floor

      1.Increased Living Space

      2. Improved Headroom

      3. Enhanced Property Value

      4. Customization Opportunities

      5. Potential for Income Generation

       

      Cons to lower your basement floor​

      1. Costly and Disruptive

      2. Structural Risks (when done wrong)

      3. Permit requirements and engineering costs

      4. Potential for Water Intrusion during process (water table)

      5. Loss of Storage Space

      what is underpinning

       

      G1000 Home Advantage and benefits

      1. Increased Ceiling Height

      2. Enhanced Usable Space

      3. Improved Natural Lighting

      4. Customizable Design Options

      5. Professional Underpinning and Benching Techniques

      6. Experienced and Skilled Team

      We understand the importance of maximizing the potential of your home’s substructure.

      With our expertise and dedication to quality craftsmanship, we strive to deliver exceptional results that exceed your expectations. Whether you’re embarking on a basement lowering project for the first time or seeking to enhance an existing space, trust G1000 Home Substructure to bring your vision to life with precision and professionalism. Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your basement into a valuable asset for your home.

      Underpinning looks like

      Finished basement floor
      what is underpinning
      tall underpinning and rebar
      section 123 done
      section 3 finish
      center mass finish
      6 mils poly below the future slab
      underpinning and inside waterproofing
      drains rough in
      concrete installation prep
      basement lowering
      framing and underpinning
      underpinningsection number 2
      organize site
      benching rebar

      Why Choose G1000 Home for Underpinning?

      We ensure Quality

      We are committed to using only the highest quality materials and the latest techniques in the industry, ensuring that our solutions stand the test of time

      Our Expert Services Grounded in Quality and Durability

      Our team combines expertise and experience to deliver high-quality waterproofing services that meet our strict standards for effectiveness and
      durability

      We are Dedicated

      At G1000 Home, we prioritize your satisfaction. We offer solutions with education and support, empowering you to protect your property with confidence.

      Tailored Solutions to meet your unique needs.

      Recognizing each property's uniqueness, we provide tailored solutions to meet your specific needs, ensuring complete protection that exceeds your expectations and ours.

      • OUR PROCESS

      How It Works?
      How to Begin in Simple Steps

      Contact Us

      Reach out by phone, email, or our website contact form. Share your preferred date, time, and any details or questions.
      Step 1

      Free estimate

      We'll confirm the appointment using your preferred communication method and provide any necessary information.
      Step 2

      Pricing & Approval

      After the quote is sent and receive your approval, we will schedule the work right away.
      Step 3

      Execution

      Our team will arrive on time. Execute the work as planned, clean the site as if we were never there."
      Step 4

      Call us for a free consultation

      We will make you underpinning project a success. 

      Click Here

      How Do I Find the Right Concrete Contractor?

      Finding the right concrete contractor can be a challenge. Many contractors may lack the expertise, reliability, and transparency needed for a successful project. Poor quality work, delays, and unclear communication can lead to stress, additional costs, and unsatisfactory results.

      The Solution

      We offer white glove expert concrete services with a focus on quality, reliability, and clear communication. Our team provides custom concrete solutions tailored to your needs, using high-quality materials and industry-best practices. With our dedication to excellence and your satisfaction, we ensure a smooth and successful project from start to finish. If these qualities are important to you, then we are the right fit for your project. Remember, you can't expect quality service at a cheap price. Let us provide the exceptional concrete work you deserve.

      customer review for G1000 Home

      What is Bench footing or Benching?

      Benching, or underpinning with a “bench,” involves adding concrete in front of the existing wall, essentially extending the perimeter of the basement horizontally. Although it doesn’t offer the same vertical expansion as underpinning, benching presents its own merits:

      1. Ideal for Depth Restrictions: Benching is suitable when constraints on excavation depth exist, often due to soil conditions, utilities, or other factors.
      2. Cost-Efficiency: Bench underpinning can be a more budget-friendly option compared to full-depth underpinning.
      3. Enhanced Usability: The created bench can serve as functional space for storage or other purposes.
      Note: You should be aware that the size of the benching will depend on the neighboring structures and the soil conditions. However, the building code typically requires a 7:10 ratio—7 inches down for every 10 inches out. In ideal conditions, a 1:1 ratio may be possible.

      What is Underpinning?

      what is underpinning

      Underpinning involves strengthening and extending the foundation of your existing basement by adding concrete beneath the walls, reinforcing and extending the foundation vertically. This comprehensive process yields significant benefits:

      1. Significant Space Addition: Underpinning provides the opportunity to add significant vertical space to your basement, resulting in increased headroom and a more expansive living area below ground.
      2. Structural Enhancement: By reinforcing the foundation, underpinning enhances the overall stability and structural integrity of your property.
      3. Increased Property Value: A deeper basement created through underpinning can substantially enhance your home’s market value, offering a wise long-term investment.

      Why should you Choose Underpinning?

      Underpinning is the preferred choice when:

      • Maximum additional space and depth are desired for the basement.
      • Existing foundation require reinforcement due to age or structural issues.
      • Extensive renovations are planned or a spacious and versatile living area below ground is desired.
      • Budget permits the investment.

       

      Why should you Choose Benching?

      Benching is a practical choice when:

      • Shallow excavation, makes full-depth underpinning impractical. (below 2 feet)
      • Maximizing existing basement footprint without significant vertical expansion is desired.
      • Budget- or cost-effective means of increasing the basement’s usable space are sought.
      •  Reinforce the footing only, or stop the water, bricks or stone foundations
      • short time line, benching is way stronger and faster process. 
      BENCHING VS UNDERPINNING ARTICLE

      what you should know

      Benching vs Underpinning

      What is the difference? 

      The primary difference between benching and underpinning lies in their purpose and scope. Benching is typically a preventive or corrective measure to enhance stability, while underpinning is a comprehensive solution to address severe foundation issues. Underpinning can also be used to increase the depth of a foundation to support additional floors or heavier loads. Underpinning in Toronto is quite common due to how older homes were built.

      How much does benching cost?

      In terms of complexity and cost, benching is generally a less intricate and more cost-effective solution. It requires less equipment and labour compared to underpinning, making it a suitable choice for less severe foundation concerns. Usely start around $125 up $500 a foot. 

      How much does underpinning cost?

      Being a more involved process, underpinning has higher costs due to the need for specialized equipment and skilled professionals. Starting at $400 a foot and can go up to $1200 if you dig a crawl space or major structural repair.

      The Space-Maximizing Underpinning is the #1 choice

      While a bench-all-around approach offers cost-effective and efficient use of existing space, underpinning stands out for providing significant vertical expansion. Underpinning creates ample headroom and additional square footage below ground, making it the preferred choice for homeowners looking to maximize their basement's potential.

      Benching, underpinning, or both?

      When deciding between benching and underpinning for your foundation-related project, consider the severity of the foundation issues, the project budget, and the long-term goals. Benching is a practical option for minor stability improvements, while underpinning is the go-to choice for addressing significant foundation problems and supporting structural modifications. Both of these methods will increase living space, but underpinning will give you more usable floor space. Consulting with experienced professionals is crucial to determining the most suitable method based on your specific needs.

      Why we can be the right fit?

      With our expertise and over 20 years of experience, me and my team can help you save money and optimize your space using either a bench-all-around, or underpinning or a hybrid method, or a combination of both in the same project. We work for you and your satisfaction is our ultimate goal.

      Step-by-Step Guide: How to Lower My Basement?

      1. Assessment and Planning: Evaluate the feasibility of the project, sign the agreement, and obtain the necessary permits.

      2. Preparation: Clear out the basement and install temporary support structures.

      3. Excavation: Remove the existing floor and soil from underneath the existing basement floor slab. (expose the footings.)

      4. Benching or Underpinning: Choose between benching or underpinning methods for structural modifications.

      5. Finishing: Install drains and French drain systems, install the waterproofing membrane, finish the basement floor, and add desired utilities and features. (we have a unique way to deal with those.)

      6. Inspection and Approval: Schedule inspections and obtain necessary approvals from local authorities. (all inspections are coordinate by us )

      7. Restoration: Replace furniture, belongings, and utilities to restore the basement to its intended use. Enjoy your new extra living space. 

      • Gemil and his team were fantastic! We had a leak in our basement and I reached out to G1000. There were able to locate and solve the problem on a short time line. I would highly recommend G1000's services!

        Jenn Phillips Avatar Jenn Phillips
        July 2, 2024

        we had very good service. Professional service and very qualified staff.

        kavyn laflamme Avatar kavyn laflamme
        July 2, 2024

        I recently hired G1000 for underpinning and waterproofing, and I couldn't be happier. The team was professional and efficient, completing the job with minimal disruption. My basement stays dry even during heavy rain. Excellent customer support throughout the process. Highly... read more

        Navpreet Kaur Avatar Navpreet Kaur
        September 25, 2024

      • I hired G1000 Home to install a concrete pad in the backyard for our 8x10 shed. Gemil provided a fair quote, and supervised the job from start to finish, ensuring time lines were met, the site was kept clean... read more

        Rhoda Villanueva Avatar Rhoda Villanueva
        October 2, 2023

        Gemil called back right away, was friendly and was very helpful in diagnosing the problem right over the phone and providing cost-effective solutions.

        Rahul Arora Avatar Rahul Arora
        February 2, 2024

        I can't help but share by satisfaction with Gemil once more! I've been fortunate to know Gemil for over a decade, and his recent waterproofing job is another example of why I keep using him. He has great work ethic.... read more

        Lisa Sinopoli Avatar Lisa Sinopoli
        October 2, 2023

      • We hired G1000 to underpin the crawl space of our home. This is a very complex project so we took our time to find the right company to do the job and he was highly recommended. We are... read more

        Joan andScott Avatar Joan andScott
        August 2, 2024

        I would definitely recommend G1000 for their extensive knowledge, quality work, and superb communication! From the initial site visit to the finishing touches, Gemil was always available to answer any questions and give honest advice about the project - going... read more

        Adam Hill Avatar Adam Hill
        July 2, 2024

        We would definitely recommend Gemil. He is an honest contractor whose expertise was invaluable to us. We would definitely recommend him..

        lena priore Avatar lena priore
        February 2, 2024

      Trusted Partners

      Honey Comb Engineering
      Remax commercial
      Perel Property Management
      Bennnett Building co.
      Mt Drains & Plumbing
      RealcorpConstruction
      Solo Constructions LTD.
      J.D Silver custom Construction ltd.
      Encore Painting
      Fast forward Toronto
      Shiupong Property Management
      Alair Homes
      Astaneh Construction
      RockBack Landscapes
      get a consultation with G1000 Home

      Three Ways to Get A Quote

       

      1. Drawing Based: Got drawings or blueprints? Perfect! It’s a great start for us to provide you with an accurate quote. Just a Bit of Prep: Have those drawings or blueprints ready. The clearer, the better.

      2. Photos & Measurements :  Snap some photos, take some measurements, and we’re on our way. A Little Prep Goes a Long Way: Take clear photos and measure up the area you’re focusing on. 

      3. Site Visit Quote: Prefer face-to-face? We love meeting our clients in person! A site visit allows us to get every detail just right. Setting Up: Ensure we can access the site, and think about any questions or specifics you’d like to discuss.

      Get a custom quote

      Contact us today with no obligation to discuss your concrete, foundation, or waterproofing needs and let’s bring your vision to life!

      Frequently asked questions

      Basement lowering is the process of excavating and lowering the floor level of an existing basement to increase the ceiling height and create additional usable space. You may consider basement lowering to maximize the potential of your basement, create a legal apartment, add value to your property, and create more functional living areas such as bedrooms, entertainment spaces, or home offices.

      Determining the suitability of your basement for lowering requires a professional assessment. Factors such as the structural integrity of the foundation, soil conditions, and the presence of utilities need to be evaluated. Consulting with experienced contractors and structural engineers will help determine the feasibility and potential challenges of basement lowering for your specific property.

      Yes, basement lowering projects are subject to local building codes and regulations. These codes dictate aspects such as ceiling height requirements, structural modifications, permits, and safety measures. It is crucial to consult with professionals familiar with the local codes to ensure compliance and obtain the necessary city permits.

       

      The duration of the basement lowering process depends on various factors, including the size of the basement, complexity of the project, access, and any unforeseen issues encountered during construction. Generally, basement lowering projects can take several weeks to a few months to complete. A detailed timeline can be provided by the contractors after assessing your specific project.

       

      Yes, the way we underpin or bench your foundation is the safest way possible, and it does not require you to leave your home.

       

      Basement lowering, when done by professionals using appropriate techniques, should not compromise the structural integrity of your property. The process involves reinforcing the foundation to maintain stability and support the lowered floor. Structural engineers and experienced contractors ensure that the necessary precautions are taken to maintain the overall structural integrity of your property.

       

      Lowering your basement can offer several benefits, including increased ceiling height, additional living space, improved functionality, enhanced natural lighting, and increased property value. It allows you to create a more comfortable and versatile living environment that suits your needs and preferences.

       

      Depending on the scope of the project, it may be necessary to temporarily restrict access to the basement during certain stages of the process. However, contractors aim to minimize disruption and provide alternative access or temporary living arrangements if required. Clear communication with the contractors will help ensure minimal inconvenience during the basement lowering process.

       

      The cost of basement lowering can vary depending on factors such as the size of the basement, complexity of the project, existing conditions, required structural modifications, and your location. It is recommended to obtain quotes from reputable contractors who can assess your specific project requirements and provide a detailed cost estimate based on your needs.