funderingswerkzaamheden

Funderingswerk, or foundation work, refers to the design, construction and stabilization of foundations that transfer structural loads from a building to the ground and manage movements caused by soil, groundwater and climate. It includes site investigation, foundation design, and the execution of foundations and underpinning when necessary. The goal is to ensure safety, durability and serviceability of the structure.

Foundations are chosen based on soil properties, load, and environmental conditions. Shallow foundations, such as spread footings, strip footings, and raft foundations, are used on strong surface soils. Deep foundations, including piles (driven or bored) and caissons, reach down to more competent strata or provide additional resistance from surrounding soil. In some cases, underpinning or micro-piling is used to stabilize existing buildings during renovations or to increase load-bearing capacity.

Common steps involve geotechnical investigation, design by structural or geotechnical engineers, permitting, excavation, installation of reinforcement and concrete work, and quality control during curing and testing. Techniques must address risks such as settlement, differential settlement, ground movement, groundwater control and frost heave. Material choices typically include concrete and steel, with attention to corrosion protection and durability in challenging soils.

Funderingswerk is central to both new construction and the rehabilitation of historic structures. It intersects with geotechnical engineering, drainage, and groundwater management, and is guided by national and international building codes and standards that specify safety, performance and inspection requirements.