Structural Movement Across Somerset
Somerset has an exceptionally varied built environment, from historic stone cottages and period townhouses to rural properties, post-war housing and modern commercial developments. Ground conditions also vary across the county, so the circumstances affecting one property may differ considerably from those affecting another. Local geology, changes in ground level and the presence of made or disturbed ground can all influence foundation performance.
Water management can be particularly important when investigating structural movement. Damaged drains, leaking underground services and concentrated surface water may weaken or remove supporting material. Prolonged dry conditions and established vegetation can affect moisture levels around some foundations, while older properties may have shallow footings that respond differently from modern foundations. At ASRS Ltd, we consider the age, construction and surroundings of each building before recommending repairs. This helps ensure that the proposed solution addresses the actual structural problem rather than only concealing its visible symptoms.
Subsidence Symptoms and Related Defects
A property affected by subsidence may develop stepped cracking through brickwork or diagonal cracks extending from the corners of doors and windows. Gaps can appear where an extension meets the original building, while internal floors may slope and openings can become difficult to operate. Cracks that continue to widen or return after being filled should be investigated to establish whether movement remains active.
Not every structural crack is caused by subsidence. Corroded wall ties, weakened lintels, inadequate restraint and thermal movement can produce damage that appears similar. Retaining walls may also move because of water pressure, poor drainage or changing ground conditions. ASRS examines how the defects relate to one another before selecting a repair method.
Work may involve Helifix crack repairs, bed-joint reinforcement, ground anchors, retaining wall stabilisation or support beneath the existing foundations. We also provide specialist concrete repairs in Somerset where deterioration or movement has affected reinforced concrete elements.
Helifix
Approved Installer
As an approved Helifix installer, ASRS provides a wide range of repair techniques that can be combined to produce the best solution for your structural problems, from wall cracking to foundation sinking. They include the Helifix systems, Anchor Systems’ ground anchors and micro piles, Cintec sock anchors, and various concrete repair products.
Call us for help with any of these
Common structural defects, issues and problems
We offer free site visits to both domestic and professional clients to assess the problem and propose the appropriate repair programme, tailored to suit the specific needs of the project. ASRS are approved installers of the Helibeam System, offering cost effective, non-disruptive and concealed solutions to all aspects of remedial masonry stabilisation. Our skilled installation teams are trained and experienced in all aspects of masonry repair. They have been trained to the highest standard in every installation process to cover all H+S requirements. With most of our design and installation specifications we are proud to offer a 10yr indemnified guarantee on Helifix repairs and Micro Piling. We offer a 25yr guarantee for Wall Tie replacement.
Reasons
To trust ASRS
Free Quotation
Helifix Approved
Skilled Workforce
Guaranteed
How ASRS Builds a Repair Programme
A suitable repair programme begins with an understanding of how movement has affected the property and what has caused it. ASRS Ltd examines the crack pattern, foundation arrangement, masonry condition and relationship between different parts of the building. Drainage, vegetation, ground levels and previous alterations may also be relevant. We can work with structural engineers, building surveyors, insurers and loss adjusters where further investigation or a formal structural design is required.
Once the available evidence has been reviewed, we select the repair systems that best suit the property. Stainless steel reinforcement can be installed within mortar beds to reconnect cracked masonry and distribute loads into stable areas. Where the foundations need additional support, micro piles may be used to transfer the building’s load to more dependable ground. Ground anchors, lintel reinforcement and retaining wall work can be included where necessary. Combining complementary methods allows both the original movement and the resulting structural damage to be addressed within one coordinated scheme.
Specialist Support for Different Property Types
ASRS Ltd works with homeowners, landlords, housing providers, commercial organisations and property professionals across Somerset. Our teams have experience with buildings of different ages, materials and uses, enabling the repair programme to reflect the practical and structural requirements of each site. Occupied properties may require careful access planning, while commercial and managed buildings can involve additional coordination with surveyors, engineers or facilities teams.
As an approved Helifix installer, ASRS can provide concealed reinforcement designed to strengthen existing masonry without unnecessary demolition. Our trained workforce follows the agreed repair design and uses established systems suited to the identified defect. We keep clients informed throughout the process and explain how each element contributes to the wider repair programme. Our aim is to complete the work efficiently, safely and with appropriate consideration for the existing appearance and continued use of the property.