Basement excavation project summary
Project type: Basement excavation (underpinning)
Location: Montreal (Saint-Michel neighborhood)
Building type: Residential multiplex
Objective: Basement expansion to create 2 rental units
Bisson Expert’s project duration: 2 months
Client : Dhruv Arya, real estate investor
Why Excavate a Basement in Montreal
In Montreal, basement excavation has become a strategic solution for expanding living space without altering the building’s footprint, converting a basement into living space, or increasing a building’s rental income.
In neighborhoods like Saint-Michel, this approach is increasingly being used by property owners looking to maximize their building’s profitability.
In this project, the client was not facing a structural problem, but rather a real estate investment opportunity. The goal was to convert an unused space into compliant and profitable rental units.
The goal:
To convert a basement into rental units
The project entrusted to Bisson Expert by Mr. Dhruv Arya involved a complete basement excavation to make the space suitable for living and create two additional units.
This type of project requires a rigorous approach, as it involves working directly beneath an existing structure while ensuring compliance with Montreal’s municipal codes.
Before beginning the work, Mr. Arya enlisted the help of engineers and architects to conduct a thorough analysis of the challenges associated with foundation excavation in Montreal, including the load-bearing capacity of the existing foundations, the role of load-bearing walls, and the minimum required height for a residential unit. Thanks to this preparation, he gained a solid understanding of the issues involved in an urban basement excavation project.
“I chose to work with Bisson Expert for a number of reasons,” says Mr. Arya. “First, because I had worked with them before, but that wasn’t the only reason. The detailed quote, the competitive pricing, and the attentive team were also important factors.“
The Bisson Expert Solution:
Safe and Efficient Basement Excavation
As soon as Mr. Arya contacted Bisson Expert to request a quote, an on-site visit by Derick Pelletier, a senior technical representative, was scheduled. Mr. Pelletier then reviewed the architectural and engineering plans provided by the client and suggested a few adjustments.
“ When I looked at the client’s plans,” Mr. Pelletier points out, “I saw ways to optimize the project, both for efficiency and final quality.“
Finally, a detailed estimate was provided to Mr. Arya. “I prepared a preliminary estimate, which I sent to the client along with an explanation of how I envisioned the project and how each cost item was justified,” explains Derick.
Bisson Expert took a proactive approach to this basement excavation project to ensure safe execution, greater durability, and optimized costs and timelines.
DERICK PELLETIER
Senior Technical Representative
Step-by-step guide to underpinning basement excavation
[ 1 ] Creating site access
Support of the existing structure and opening in the foundation wall
[ 2 ] Basement excavation
Using miniaturized equipment, the existing basement is carefully excavated, as well as certain sections of the soil beneath the foundation to the desired depth.
[ 3 ] Underpinning
Step by step, in alternating sections, formwork panels and steel reinforcement rebars are installed, and the underpinning concrete is poured.
[ 4 ] Structural columns
Columns set on concrete footings are installed to support the structure and load-bearing walls, designed to be integrated into and concealed within the future basement partitions.
[ 5 ] Window wells
Concrete window wells are formed and poured to create direct exterior access to the basement.
[ 6 ] Waterproofing
A drainage system is then installed, covered with a layer of crushed stone, and a Delta-MS membrane is applied to the wall.
[ 7 ] Insulation and slab pouring
The stone is then covered with spray foam insulation, and the process is completed with a metal mesh and a perfectly level concrete slab.
[ 8 ] Basement Finishing
Interior finishing work is not included in Bisson Expert’s scope of work. It is therefore carried out by specialized contractors after we have completed our work.
Potential Challenges Associated with Basement Excavation in Montreal
Since construction began in January, specific measures were necessary to ensure operational safety, such as heating the site and protecting the facilities. The timeline was affected by the plumbing work required for the bathrooms, as well as the connections and installations for the window wells.
Despite these challenges, the Bisson Expert team encountered no major unexpected issues, thanks to the analysis and preparation carried out in advance.
The result:
A successful expansion and new rental units
The basement excavation allowed for a complete transformation of the basement and the creation of 2 additional rental units, leading to optimal space utilization and, of course, an increase in the building’s value.
Before the renovations, the space had a ceiling height of 6 feet 7 inches, which does not meet Quebec housing standards. Bisson Expert therefore excavated to create a habitable basement with an 8-foot ceiling and an area of 1,738 square feet.
Basement Excavation:
Why Choose Bisson Expert
Choosing an excavation contractor in the Greater Montreal area is crucial for a project of this scale. This decision can have a significant impact on the project’s progress and the final result. Expertise and work methods are therefore key factors to consider.
Bisson Expert stands out first and foremost for its in-depth expertise in underpinning, developed through the completion of more than 500 projects per year. This specialization enables the team to work effectively beneath existing structures.
The company also prioritizes a rigorous and safe approach at every stage of excavation. The techniques used ensure adequate support for existing foundations, minimizing risks and guaranteeing the building’s stability throughout the project.
Finally, Bisson Expert also has an extensive network of partners in plumbing, electrical work, and interior finishing. Thanks to these trusted partners, the company can provide its clients with reliable professionals, making their lives easier.
Unparalleled support and a relationship built on trust
Beyond technical execution, Bisson Expert stands out for the support it provides. Every client receives ongoing assistance from a dedicated technical representative and project manager who can explain complex issues in simple terms, propose practical solutions, and adapt the project to address any on-site challenges that arise.
Having had positive experiences with Bisson Expert on several occasions in the past, there was no question in Mr. Arya’s mind: this was the team he would entrust with his project.
“I really appreciate working with Bisson Expert,” he says. “You can always count on this team to find a solution. If there are challenges, we’ll overcome them together. With them, you’re in good hands.“
With Bisson Expert, the scope of work is always clearly stated, with an estimate that is both accurate and transparent. Our project managers support our clients at every stage of their project and are always available to answer their questions.
Maximizing a building’s profitability through basement excavation in the Greater Montreal area
This project, carried out in Montreal, demonstrates that a well-planned basement expansion can transform an existing building into a more profitable asset. Thanks to its expertise in basement excavation, Bisson Expert delivered a safe, code-compliant, and high-performance project.
Do You Have a Basement Excavation Project in Montreal?
Bisson Expert is with you every step of the way, from planning to execution.
Contact our team to receive a complete quote.