Foundation replacement

Replace your foundation before it’s too late

Major cracks, crumbling concrete, the presence of pyrite or a poorly designed foundation – some types of damage can compromise the very integrity of your home. When the structure is too deteriorated to be repaired effectively, a complete foundation replacement becomes the only viable option to ensure the building’s safety and durability. At Fondabec, we handle every stage of this type of project – from the technical assessment and structure lifting through to the installation of a new, compliant and durable foundation. This intervention allows you not only to stabilize your property, but also to adapt it to your future needs (livable basement, better insulation, extension).

When should you consider a complete foundation replacement?

Before considering a repair or partial reinforcement, it is essential to evaluate the overall condition of the existing foundation. When certain situations no longer allow for an effective repair, a foundation replacement becomes the only long-term solution to ensure the building’s safety.

Major or structural cracks

Deep, wide or stair-step cracks (e.g. fractured walls) are not merely cosmetic. When they traverse the entire thickness of the foundation or continue to widen over time, they indicate active structural movement, often caused by settlement, freezing-thawing cycles or unstable soil. In such cases, injections or patching are no longer sufficient. A complete replacement corrects the source of the problem, stabilises the building and prevents further damage.

Deterioration of concrete or footing

Concrete is a durable material, but not eternal. When exposed to moisture, frost, poor formulation or pyrite, it can crumble, flake or break down. These visible signs often reveal a loss of load-bearing capacity, which compromises the stability of the house. A foundation replacement offers a fresh start built to current standards of quality and waterproofing, with better materials, improved sealing and effective drainage.

Poor design or non-compliant foundation

Many older homes in Quebec were built with shallow foundations, without structural footings, or with poor drainage. Such construction does not meet today’s requirements and cannot withstand the province’s conditions (clay, frost, runoff). In these cases, problems accumulate: water infiltration, cracks, differential movement. Replacing the foundation modernises the structure, strengthens protection against water and increases the home’s energy efficiency.

Transformation or expansion project

Planning to excavate a full-height basement, add a rental unit, or extend your building? In many cases, the existing foundation can neither support the new loads nor meet space or depth requirements. Replacement then lets you start with a structured, optimised base for your new project. It’s also the opportunity to raise the house, improve foundation wall insulation, or integrate modern installations such as radiant floors or a new French drain.

What does the foundation replacement involve at Fondabec?

Foundation replacement is a technical project, but it’s one our teams master. We use a rigorous method that ensures the building’s stability at every step.

Structural inspection and assessment

First, our experts conduct a thorough inspection of the building to assess the foundation’s actual condition. We analyse cracks, settlement signs, concrete quality, soil type (clay, backfill, rock) and existing drainage elements. This step determines whether replacement is justified and, above all, how to carry it out safely and in compliance. If necessary, we collaborate with structural engineers to validate load capacities and develop a custom intervention plan.

Shoring and structure lifting

Once the project is confirmed, our team shores up the house. This consists of temporarily supporting the building with beams and jacks for the duration of the work. The structure is lifted with precision to avoid deformation or settlement. It’s a delicate operation requiring expertise, experience and specialised equipment, which Fondabec has mastered for over twelve years.

Excavation and removal of the old foundation

Once the building is secured, we excavate around and under the house to remove the existing foundation completely. This phase also includes debris removal, material sorting and preparing the ground for the new foundation. We ensure a thorough clean-up of the area while adhering to safety and environmental management standards.

Construction of the new foundation

We rebuild the foundation according to current construction standards, using high-quality reinforced concrete. This includes:

A new structural footing to properly distribute loads
Thicker foundation walls, insulated if needed
A stable, durable interior slab (radiant floor optional)
Installation of a French drain and a Delta MS-type waterproof membrane
A ventilation or sump system, if required

Each foundation is designed to suit site conditions, client needs and municipal requirements.

Backfilling, compaction and finishing

Once the new foundation is completed, we carefully backfill the perimeter, installing a French drain to prevent water infiltration. We also ensure that the land is graded with an adequate slope, directing water away from the foundation (towards a collection basin or storm sewer). Finally, we restore utility connections (electricity, plumbing, ventilation) and complete the exterior finishing (stairs, window well, entry, etc.) as needed.

What are the advantages of a complete replacement?

Replacing a foundation may seem like a significant investment, but it brings lasting benefits for both the safety and the value of the building.

Restored structural safety

An unstable or damaged foundation endangers the building’s integrity. Replacement ensures proper load distribution, corrects original defects (poor footing, degraded concrete, settlement), and provides a sound base that meets construction standards. You protect your building against soil movement, partial collapses or future cracking.

Better energy performance and insulation

A new foundation allows the integration of the latest basement insulation and sealing technologies. You can significantly reduce heat loss, limit ambient humidity and improve your home’s comfort. Installing waterproofing membranes, exterior insulation or radiant floors also becomes easier with a complete replacement.

Increased property value

A house with a new foundation inspires confidence in any buyer or inspector. It’s a decisive factor for resale, rental or mortgage refinancing. By replacing the foundation, you extend your property’s lifespan, reduce insurable risk, and improve its position on the real estate market.

Adaptation to your needs

It’s also an opportunity to adapt the structure to your life projects: raising the house, deeper excavation, creating a livable basement, an intergenerational unit or an integrated garage. Instead of living with an ageing foundation that limits you, you invest in a flexible, scalable and durable solution designed for the years ahead.

Comprehensive support, from diagnosis to the new foundation!

Before undertaking a foundation replacement, an in-depth assessment of the structure and the soil is essential to confirm the best solution. At Fondabec, this analysis is carried out by our experts with the support of our structural engineers. From lifting the house to building the new foundation, we guide you every step of the way to ensure a solid, durable base that complies with current standards.

A doubt or a question about a foundation?

For more than 20 years, Fondabec has assisted homeowners in Greater Montreal and across Quebec with their foundation replacement projects. Whether you’re in Laval, Longueuil, Terrebonne, the North Shore, the South Shore or outlying regions, our team travels quickly to evaluate your situation and propose the most durable solution.

We hold all the certifications required in excavation, civil engineering and underpinning, and we work with partner engineers and surveyors to ensure the compliance and quality of each project.

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FAQ

What is the cost of a foundation replacement?

The price varies according to the type of repair required, whether it is injection or a more structural repair. This can represent a significant investment, so an on-site assessment is necessary to provide an accurate estimate.

Can I live in the house during the work?

Unfortunately, in most cases, the building must be vacated temporarily to allow lifting and demolition/construction work.

How long does the work take?

A foundation replacement can last several weeks, but the actual duration will depend on the complexity of the site, access conditions and weather.

Is it preferable to opt for a repair?

If the foundation is severely damaged, too old or poorly designed, a partial repair would be insufficient. Replacement is then the best long-term option.

Can the new basement be deeper?

Yes, if the project allows. After a feasibility analysis, we can excavate deeper to create a full-height basement.

For over 20 years, Fondabec has been assisting homeowners in Greater Montreal and throughout Quebec with their excavation projects.

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