Difficult Ground Conditions

On soft ground, excavate shallow pits (40-50cm cube) under each post and fill with compacted gravel. This creates a larger bearing surface—like a snowshoe—distributing load and preventing settlement. The gravel also provides drainage. For detailed installation on soft ground, see our gravel pocket guide.

Excavate 20-30cm deep under each post and fill with compacted gravel. This provides drainage and a stable bearing layer, reducing clay movement effects. If ground does shift seasonally, adjust post heights to compensate. See our gravel pocket guide for installation details.

Bedrock provides excellent bearing capacity. Drill 22mm holes approximately 15cm deep and anchor posts with threaded rod. No blasting or large-scale excavation required. See our bedrock anchoring guide for drilling and leveling procedures.

Frequency depends on soil type. Expansive clay: check after first major wet-dry cycle, then seasonally. Compressible soil (peat, organic): check after first season for initial compression, then annually. Frost-prone areas: check after spring thaw. Bedrock: rarely requires adjustment. Readjustment typically takes 20-30 minutes.

Elevated design (150-600mm clearance) usually maintains adequate drainage—water flows beneath the structure. On sites with standing water, simple surface grading to direct water away from the structure is often sufficient. The elevation itself provides drainage that traditional slab foundations cannot.

Yes. Use larger gravel pads (approximately 50x50cm) to distribute load over greater area. Expect some compression during the first year—plan for 2-3 readjustment sessions as the building settles. See our gravel pocket guide for compressible soil installation.

Frost heave lifts ground as moisture freezes and expands. Posts may lift with the ground in winter. After spring thaw, check level and readjust if necessary. The ability to adjust accommodates frost movement that would crack rigid foundations.