Challenge
A single-storey extension in Co. Louth suffered structural cracking due to inadequate foundations, with ground movement compounded by nearby live gas and water services complicating safe and effective repair.
Solution
Geobear delivered a one-day geopolymer injection solution, strengthening soils beneath the foundations across multiple depths, safely stabilising the structure without excavation or disruption to live utility services.
Total installation time
Maximum injection depth
Targeted ground improvement
Geobear was contacted by the homeowner of a property in Co. Louth after cracking appeared on the front and rear walls of a single-storey bathroom extension. The cracks were visible externally and indicated ongoing structural movement.
A site investigation confirmed that the extension had been constructed on inadequate foundations, which lacked the depth and bearing capacity required to support the structure. Over time, this had allowed ground movement to occur, resulting in progressive cracking.
The homeowner required a permanent solution that could be delivered quickly, without major disruption to the property or daily life.
The extension foundations were insufficient to support the imposed loads, leading to settlement and visible cracking. Any solution needed to improve ground bearing capacity without rebuilding the structure.
A gas main and water main were located directly within the treatment area, increasing the risk profile of any intrusive groundworks and requiring careful planning and execution.
Traditional underpinning would have required excavation, spoil removal, and extended construction time—creating significant disruption for the homeowner.

Geobear implemented a tailored geopolymer injection solution to strengthen and consolidate the soils beneath the extension foundations.
The treatment was delivered across three levels, targeting depths of up to 2.1 metres below foundation level. A total of eight external injection points were used to accurately deliver the geopolymer material into the ground, improving load-bearing capacity and arresting further movement.
To manage the presence of live utilities, enabling works were undertaken to expose both the gas and water mains prior to injection. This ensured full visibility and protection during the process, with the gas main located between two injection points.
The controlled, low-pressure injection process allowed the team to work safely around these services, with no risk of damage or disruption.
All works were completed in a single day using a two-person crew and a self-contained injection unit, with no excavation or heavy plant required.

The structure was successfully stabilised within one day, eliminating the need for invasive underpinning works.
The homeowner experienced minimal disruption, with no excavation, noise, or mess typically associated with traditional methods. The presence of live utilities was safely managed without incident.
Following completion, the customer highlighted the speed and cleanliness of the installation, noting that the process was far less disruptive than expected and praising the professionalism of the installation team.
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