Can You Cut Bedrock in a Basement?
Bedrock refers to the rock layer that typically lies hidden beneath the soil. In rocky areas, bedrock may be very close to the surface, allowing foundations to be built directly against the primary bedrock layer. There are a couple of situations in which the bedrock layer can be cut, such as the initial construction of the basement. But later projects may not lend themselves to further bedrock work, especially in such a difficult location in which to work.
Bedrock in Basements
There is a reason that foundation are built on top of bedrock instead of in bedrock: The thick layer of rock cannot be moved as takes an incredible amount of work to cut and or change at all. Bedrock layers are left as they are to provide a high level of stability to the foundation constructed over them. Every house is different, but you may find that a quick survey will show cutting bedrock is not possible or practical, even if it can be accessed through your basement level.
Construction
When your basement is first being constructed and is built directly on the bedrock, some bedrock work is common. In this case, you can cut into bedrock and remove sections to make way for your new foundation, leveling out the bedrock surface to accommodate your home. This is the easiest way to remove any of the bedrock because it is still exposed. This also provides a chance to drill down and install rebar in the bedrock for extra foundational support.
Excavation
If your basement and home are already built, excavation into bedrock can be much more complicated. You should contact a surveyor or construction company and ask them to take a look to see if your bedrock can be removed to enlarge or change your basement area. Slight changes may be possible, especially for extra foundation support like added rebar. But excavating in a pre-built basement can be very expensive, even without dealing with bedrock. Even if the project is possible, it may not fit within your budget.
Wells
Wells are sometimes constructed on top of bedrock. The bedrock layer is "cracked" slightly to allow the well to re-fill with water more easily. If you want to install a well in your basement but you are not sure how easy it will be to cut into the bedrock, surveyors and specialists can offer invaluable advice here, too. A bedrock well may be possible, but anything from the position of the foundation to the use of fertilizers in your garden may make drilling a well in your bedrock inadvisable.
References
Writer Bio
Tyler Lacoma has worked as a writer and editor for several years after graduating from George Fox University with a degree in business management and writing/literature. He works on business and technology topics for clients such as Obsessable, EBSCO, Drop.io, The TAC Group, Anaxos, Dynamic Page Solutions and others, specializing in ecology, marketing and modern trends.
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