A Rouyn-Noranda company has invented a hydraulic system used to stabilize and straighten the foundations of a building that is well on its way to breaking into export markets.
As a first step, Stabiliforce Technologies is preparing to enter the American market.
“We are in talks with several large companies specializing in foundations and excavation in the United States who are interested in buying our technology, explains Francis Boucher, founder of the company. The pandemic is slowing things down a bit, but we are confident in the outlook for this market where the piling of buildings can be done year-round, unlike in Quebec. »
In the near future, the SME plans to achieve 80% of its turnover in our southern neighbours.
Stabiliforce is also present in
Australia through a network of resellers. The SME is also eyeing Europe, which already holds the patent for the entire continent.
Demand growth
Business is also going very well within our borders. Thanks to its patented product, Stabiliforce recorded the strongest growth in its turnover in 2021, of around 300%.
“Demand is particularly strong in Quebec because more and more buildings are sinking into the ground due to climate change,” explains Francis Boucher. The year 2022 promises to be just as effervescent. »
Currently, Stabiliforce generates 65% of its sales in Quebec thanks to a network of 13 resellers – soon to be 14 – who are present in all regions. In foreign markets, the SME sells its technology directly to its customers.
Thanks to the gains in productivity and efficiency it provides, Stabiliforce’s technology is attracting interest from coast to coast. The SME was invited by the Canadian Construction Association to present its innovation at an event that will take place in March in Vancouver (if the pandemic allows it, of course).
Innovation, a family affair
The idea of developing hydraulic piles germinated in Francis Boucher’s head in 2010. The mechanical engineer wanted to help his father, Camil, who had just noticed that his house had sunk more than five inches in just six months.
“I suggested that he invent a system to stake his house that would be more efficient than what existed on the market. We worked on the product for more than five years before arriving at the current concept. »
The technology combines hydraulically driven piles with foundation chairs that have been certified by WSP Engineering.
Confident in the market potential of his invention, Francis Boucher founded
Stabiliforce and 2016.
“The system can lift all types of buildings, even multi-dwellings,” he says. Our foundation chairs are anti-corrosive, which guarantees their durability. As for hydraulic piles, they offer superior performance to screw piles. »
The spirit of invention is a family story with the Bouchers. Francis’ father, who had a career in the mining sector as a mechanical engineer, is the source of several patents. On the eve of his retirement, he is now associated with his son in the company.
For Francis Boucher, there is no question of stopping on such a good path.
“We are working on developing other products,” he concludes.
Stabiliforce Technologies
- Date of foundation: 2016
- Activities: manufacturer of hydraulic systems
- Shareholders: Francis Boucher, Love Véronneau, Camil Boucher
- Number of employees: 6