Does anyone know a good contractor for infill basement underpinning in Inglewood that understands clay soil?

Yes, basement underpinning in Inglewood requires specialized expertise with Calgary's expansive clay soils, and you'll want a contractor experienced with heritage district considerations and the unique challenges of infill properties in established neighborhoods.

Inglewood presents some of Calgary's most challenging foundation work due to the combination of expansive bentonite clay soils, proximity to the Bow River, and the neighborhood's mix of heritage properties and modern infills. The clay soils in this area are particularly reactive to moisture changes, causing significant swelling and shrinkage that can damage foundations during underpinning work.

Underpinning in clay soil requires contractors who understand proper excavation sequencing, temporary shoring, and soil stabilization techniques. The work typically involves excavating in small sections (usually 3-4 foot segments) to avoid destabilizing the existing foundation. In Inglewood's clay, contractors often need to install temporary steel beams and use specialized equipment to manage groundwater and soil movement. The process usually takes 4-8 weeks depending on the basement size and soil conditions.

Inglewood-specific considerations include the neighborhood's heritage character area designation, which may require development permits for significant foundation work. Many properties sit on smaller lots with limited access for equipment, making the work more complex. The area's mature trees and proximity to neighboring infills also require careful planning to avoid damage to adjacent properties.

What to look for in an underpinning contractor: current WCB Alberta coverage, experience with clay soil conditions, references from recent Inglewood or similar inner-city projects, and proper equipment for confined spaces. Expect costs of $400-$800 per linear foot of foundation wall, with higher costs for complex soil conditions or restricted access. The contractor should provide a geotechnical assessment and work with a structural engineer familiar with Calgary clay soils.

Next steps: Get quotes from at least three contractors experienced with underpinning in Calgary's clay soils. Verify their Safety Codes Council permits and ask to see recent projects in similar soil conditions. The City of Calgary requires building permits for underpinning work, and you may need a development permit depending on the scope.

Find verified contractors experienced with foundation work in our Calgary directory at Calgary Construction Network.