Stone Columns Method

Stone column ground improvement involves adding vertical columns of stone into the ground to a depth of at least 4m below the ground surface. A layer of compacted gravel can then be put over the top of the columns, ready for the construction of new house foundations. The stone column method is quick to construct and can be done at any time of the year.

Stone columns are constructed by experienced contractors using specialist equipment. The construction uses an excavator with a vibrating probe to feed stone into the ground, forming a vertical column of stone. Some stone column rigs feed stone into the ground through the vibrating probe, exiting at the bottom, and other rigs require the stone to be fed in from the ground surface down the vertical hole in the ground. Both types use a vibrating probe that densifies the surrounding soils to help feed the stone into the ground.