Residential case study
Challenge
Progressive clay shrinkage caused a detached home's front porch to tip forward, requiring a permanent, low-disruption alternative to underpinning.
Solution
Geobear stabilised the ground beneath the porch using specialist geopolymer injections, restoring support and lifting the structure within one day.
Installation completed
Insurance-backed guarantee
Successfully reversed
A homeowner in Kent noticed their front porch gradually tipping forwards after around 25 years. Over the previous two to three years, the movement had become increasingly noticeable, prompting concerns about the porch's long-term stability.
Following an online search into possible solutions, the homeowner considered traditional underpinning alongside several modern resin injection specialists. After discussing the project with multiple companies, Geobear was selected due to the technical approach, clear communication during the consultation, and the reassurance of an insurance-backed guarantee. The cause of the movement was identified as shallow foundations combined with clay shrinkage beneath the porch.
The detached property's porch had experienced progressive forward rotation caused by seasonal clay shrinkage beneath relatively shallow foundations. Although the structure itself was relatively small, continued movement risked worsening structural distortion and cosmetic damage over time.
Traditional underpinning was investigated but was considered too disruptive for a porch of this size. Extensive excavation, increased construction time and significant disturbance to the property made it a less attractive solution. The homeowner wanted a permanent repair that could be completed quickly with minimal impact on everyday life.
client quote
Phil Harcus
Geobear designed a bespoke clay shrinkage ground improvement solution specifically for the porch foundations.
Using small-diameter injection tubes, engineers installed a specialist geopolymer material beneath the foundations at multiple controlled depths, improving the bearing capacity of the clay soils while reducing their susceptibility to seasonal moisture-related shrinkage. The treatment targeted the affected foundation zone without the need for excavation or demolition.
Preparation requirements were minimal, with only minor vegetation trimming needed to provide access around the porch. The complete stabilisation works were carried out in a single day, allowing the homeowner to remain at the property throughout.
The treatment successfully reversed the forward tilt of the porch, lifting the structure and restoring confidence in its stability.
Works were completed with virtually no mess or disruption, and the homeowner was particularly impressed by the speed of the installation and the visible lifting achieved during the injection process.
Following completion, the project was supported by Geobear's transferable 10-year residential guarantee together with an independent insurance-backed guarantee, providing long-term reassurance.
Every home is unique. Our experts are ready to listen and provide answers tailored to your specific property and concerns.
