Look up: underpinning

1. 
   Underpinning
   The installation of strong foundations underneath primary foundations when the latter have failed or have been found to be inadequate to support the structure above.
   Found on http://www.selfbuildabc.co.uk/self-build
   
   
2. 
   Underpinning
   The installation of strong foundations underneath primary foundations when the latter have failed or have been found to be inadequate to support the structure above.
   Found on http://selfbuildhome.net/self-build-glos
   
   
3. 
   Underpinning
   In construction, `underpinning` is the process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of an existing building or other structure. Underpinning may be necessary for a variety of reasons: *The original foundation is simply not strong or stable enough, e.g. due to decay of wooden piles under the foundation. *The usage of the structure has changed. *The properties of the soil supporting the foundation may have changed (possibly through sub...
   Found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Underpinnin
   
   
4. 
   Underpinning
   • (n.) The foundation, esp. of a frame house. • (n.) That by which a building is underpinned; the material and construction used for support, introduced beneath a wall already constructed. • (n.) The act of one who underpins; the act of supporting by stones, masonry, or the like. • (p. pr. & vb. n.) of UnderpinUnderpinning: word...
   Found on http://thinkexist.com/dictionary/meaning