About the Suburban Basement Team
With over 20 years of experience in waterproofing and foundation repair, Suburban Basement has built a reputation for innovative, homeowner-focused solutions that protect properties without unnecessary demolition. Our team specializes in preserving the integrity of homes and structures while addressing critical safety concerns, just like we did for this historic farmhouse in Lake Orion. From residential homes to commercial and industrial properties across Michigan, we provide tailored, long-lasting solutions designed to keep basements dry, foundations stable, and structures secure
Lake Orion Farmhouse Saved!
A Case Study on Smarter Alternatives to Demolition
When the cellar walls of a historic Lake Orion farmhouse began to buckle, homeowners feared costly demolition that would dismantle their beloved wrap-around porch. The cellar, once used for coal storage, still provided essential access to the home’s well line, making stability a top priority.
Instead of excavation, Suburban Basement used high-density foam injection to reinforce the walls, eliminate collapse risks, and maintain well access—all without disturbing the home’s charm. This cost-effective, non-invasive solution preserved both the structure and the property’s historic integrity.
Discover the smart, non-invasive solution that kept this home’s history intact: Structural Void Filling & Abatement Remediation
At Suburban Basement, we understand that every home tells a story, and preserving those stories is just as important as solving the structural challenges that come with them. This was especially true when we were called to address a pressing safety concern at an old farmhouse in Lake Orion, Michigan.
The property, a charming piece of local history, features an expansive wrap-around porch. Beneath this picturesque exterior lay an aging cellar originally used to store coal. While its functional days are long behind it, the cellar still serves as a vital access point for the home’s well line.
Unfortunately, time had taken its toll, and the cellar walls were buckling inward—a clear safety hazard. Many contractors recommended drastic measures, including demolishing the wrap-around porch and excavating the cellar. While this approach would resolve the structural issue, it would also come with steep costs and a significant loss of the home’s character.
That’s where Suburban Basement came in, offering a smarter, more cost-effective solution that preserved the integrity of the home while addressing the safety concerns: Structural Void Filling & Abatement Remediation
A Unique Solution for a Unique Home
Rather than opting for demolition, we proposed filling the 12-foot-long, 5-foot-wide, and 5-foot-high cellar with a specialized foam solution. This approach stabilized the cellar walls, eliminated the risk of further collapse, and saved the homeowners from the expense and disruption of tearing apart their beloved porch.
We began by prepping the area to ensure both functionality and accessibility for the future. Sonotubes were installed around the existing well line, extending them above the cellar floor to allow for easy access if repairs are ever needed.
To contain the foam, we strategically placed OSB sheathing at a designated stopping point. This barrier ensured the foam filled only the necessary areas, setting the stage for the next phase. Once the foam work was complete, a mason would finish the job by sealing the opening with CMU block, seamlessly integrating it into the existing foundation for a polished, lasting finish.
A Historic Home Preserved
The outcome was nothing short of remarkable. By choosing this innovative solution, the homeowners avoided the significant expense and disruption of demolition. The wrap-around porch remained untouched, preserving the home’s charm and curb appeal.
Not only was our bid considerably more affordable than conventional approaches, but the project also left no lasting impact on the home’s exterior landscaping or architecture. Best of all, the homeowners could breathe a sigh of relief, knowing their safety concerns were fully addressed without compromising the character of their historic property.
At Suburban Basement, we’re proud to provide solutions that don’t just fix problems—they preserve what makes your home special. If you’re facing a challenging structural issue, we’re here to help you find the right approach that works for your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.
This project is a perfect example of how void filling and abandoned structure stabilization can be used to reinforce underground spaces, preventing collapse and ensuring long-term stability. By choosing a smart, non-invasive solution, the homeowners avoided costly demolition while preserving the historic charm of their property.
