A philosophy of minimal intervention

Upholding the principles of conservation

Historic buildings are irreplaceable assets. When subsidence or ground instability threatens them, the solution must be as sensitive as it is effective.

Traditional underpinning, with its destructive excavation and vibration, often poses an unacceptable risk to delicate, often shallow foundations and the surrounding archaeology.

Our geopolymer solution aligns with the core principle of modern conservation: minimal intervention. We strengthen the ground beneath the structure, preserving its original materials and historical integrity for future generations.

3D render of historic building with foundation exposed showing where injection bulbs are and Geobear techs at work

The Geobear solution for heritage structures

Our approach is a proven, scientifically advanced method that respects the unique character of your building

Non-invasive

We work through small diameter holes, eliminating the need for any excavation. This preserves the building's fabric, interiors, and the surrounding landscape, including archaeologically sensitive ground. Because we only need to drill through to the ground, any vibrations are kept to a minimum.

Surgical precision & control

The injection process is meticulously controlled and monitored in real-time with lasers. This allows for precise, targeted ground improvement and re-levelling, ensuring no undue stress is placed on the historic structure.

Lightweight & sympathetic

Our geopolymer material is incredibly strong yet lightweight. Unlike heavy concrete, it does not add significant new loads to the ground, which is a critical consideration for historic foundations that were not designed for modern materials.

Proven & compliant

Our work is guided by the principles of BS 7913: Guide to the conservation of historic buildings. We provide a solution that is not only effective but fully compliant with best practices for heritage asset management.

Case studies

See how we've helped preserve these historic assets

Infra public buildings

Campbeltown Museum & Registrar's Office

We used our ground improvement solution to lift a section of the museum's floor and prevent further damage.

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Exterior view from ground level of a section of Hurst castle with large red rocks and pebble cover in foreground.

Hurst Castle

We helped strengthen the foundations of this historic castle to protect it from tidal erosion.

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Exterior ground view of front gate in foreground and St Anne's church in background.

St Anne's Church

Our team was able to improve the church's foundations without the need for disruptive and costly underpinning.

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infra case studt long eaton

Long Eaton Library Foundation Stabilisation

Geobear stabilised the front-left corner of Long Eaton Library, a Grade II listed Carnegie building, with geopolymer injection.

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Frequently asked questions

Common enquiries regarding conservation and heritage projects

Here are answers to common questions from conservation architects, structural engineers, and custodians of historic and listed buildings.

Yes. Our non-invasive and precisely controlled method is ideal for listed buildings where preservation is paramount. We have a proven track record of successfully improving the ground of protected structures without compromising their heritage value.

A typical project is completed in a matter of days, not the weeks or months required for underpinning. This significantly reduces the time the building is at risk during remedial works and minimises disruption to the site.

Our process is designed around the principle of "minimum intervention" as outlined in BS 7913. By strengthening the ground without altering the historic foundation itself, we preserve the building's original fabric and authenticity. It is a sympathetic, modern engineering solution for heritage conservation.

The risk is exceptionally low. The process is very low, if any, vibration, and because there is no excavation, there is no risk of damaging the foundation or surrounding materials. The precise, laser-monitored control ensures the structure is lifted or the ground is improved without causing new stress or cracking.

Because we do not excavate, the impact is minimal compared to any traditional method. The small diameter injection tubes can be carefully placed to avoid known sensitive areas, preserving the integrity of archaeological layers beneath and around the structure.

The geopolymer does not adversely react with historic materials like stone, brick, or lime mortar. It is an inert, stable, and water-resistant material that strengthens the soil around the foundation, creating a stable base without chemically altering the historic structure itself.

Discuss your conservation project

Every historic building presents a unique challenge. Contact our specialist heritage team for a confidential, no-obligation consultation to discuss how our modern engineering solution can help you preserve your landmark structure.

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