Underpinning historical buildings in Colorado, particularly in areas like Littleton and the Denver metro region, involves navigating complex geological and structural hurdles. Because historical structures often feature delicate masonry, original stonework, and fragile interior finishes, the method of stabilization must be precise and non-destructive.

Some of the primary challenges we address include:

• Expansive Clay Soils: Much of the Front Range sits on soil that shrinks and swells with moisture changes. We must drive piers deep enough—often 8 to 12 feet or more—to bypass this active layer and reach stable bedrock or competent soil strata.
• Preserving Structural Integrity: Historical renovations require a vibration-free approach. Traditional methods can cause additional stress to aging frames, whereas our steel piering process uses hydraulic pressure to drive piers to refusal without the heavy vibrations that could damage historic finishes.
• Access and Site Constraints: Older properties often have mature landscaping, narrow alleys, or close proximity to neighboring structures. We utilize small 2×2 foot access pits to minimize site impact and preserve existing porches, walkways, and stonework.
• Immediate Load Requirements: Many historical buildings are heavy masonry structures that cannot tolerate the long wait times associated with concrete curing. We use galvanized steel piers because they are immediate-load capable, providing predictable support the moment they reach refusal.
• Engineering and Regulatory Compliance: Historical renovations often require stamped engineering plans and must meet specific preservation guidelines. We coordinate closely with licensed structural engineers to ensure the repair strategy addresses the root cause of settlement while protecting the building’s historical value.

All information is for general informational purposes. Estimates are preliminary and not binding until confirmed by an on-site inspection. We recommend consulting a licensed structural engineer for definitive design recommendations.

• Foundation Stabilization for Historical Renovations: Complete Guide