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Craig got in touch quickly, gave me a rough estimate over the phone and answered all my questions. Surveyor arrived on time, gave instant quote. Price was good. Michael and (another) Craig turned up to do the job on the day, time given. Good, tidy job. Can't fault anything, from start to finish!! Would recommend!
Mary
George and his team are experienced builders, replaced my front door with a custom frame/sidelights and raising the floor level in the hallway quite quickly - in fact, they were the only who came next day, gave a quote straightaway and were ready to start in just couple of days. They also had all the necessary tools and materials, were ready to buy something additional quickly on the day - if further adjustments were required to fit everything as I asked. Thanks a lot for your help, guys!
Dmitry
Highly recommend. These guys did a fantastic job of constructing our pergola and decking. Very hardworking and reliable. The job was completed in the time frame agreed and to a very high standard. We would 100% use them again.
Holly
Foundations, underpinning and piling are complex, technical services that require the know-how of specialist groundworkers and engineers. More than any other part of your home, it pays to invest in solid foundations, so find a professional you can trust today.
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Underpinning, piling and foundation construction – Rated People
When it comes to foundations and underpinning, the name tells you everything you need to know about their importance to your home. This specialist groundwork quite literally provides the base your home is built on. And that’s why it’s absolutely vital the professionals you use are experienced experts who know what they’re doing.
The complexity of foundations (and underpinning or piling, if required) depends on the structure you’re building, and the state of the ground your home or plot sits on. Basic foundations involve filling trenches (dug precisely according to plans) with a layer of solid concrete and then building blockwork up to ground level. Alternatively, an entire trench can be filled with concrete to just below ground level before adding damp proof coursing.
Piling is becoming an increasing popular alternative to standard footings or foundations. It involves driving piles into the ground, which are made from steel, concrete or even wood. A ground beam then sits atop the foundation, which your structure can be built on.
Underpinning is required when existing foundations have become defective, and to counter issues like subsidence. The appropriate method will be recommended by an experienced groundwork specialist and potentially a structural engineer too. The standard approach to underpinning involves excavating specific sections below the footing and reinforcing them with concrete. Piling techniques provide an alternative to traditional underpinning and can be used in situations where there’s restricted access. Not only is piling faster than standard underpinning, but it has a higher load capability and less disruption. Those benefits come at a cost though, and you’ll find piling is significantly pricier than standard concrete underpinning.
Cost of foundations, underpinning and piling
It pays to invest in foundations, but quite how much you’ll need to invest depends on the type of foundations you require. Basic foundation laying involves the following steps (excluding site clearance and the setting out of footings):
- Excavation: £7-£10 per sqm
- Laying foundations (concrete and blockwork): £40-£60 per sqm
Piling costs are typically significantly higher than standard foundations – anywhere from 2-3 times more expensive than the concrete and blockwork method.
Similarly, underpinning costs vary according to the issue that needs to be resolved, and the method selected. For mass concrete underpinning you can expect to pay between £1,000-£2,000 per linear metre.
How to build a foundation
Basic foundations follow a fairly simple process. After you’ve consulted a structural engineer and have all the necessary plans approved, the first step is to dig out trenches. Your groundwork professional may recommend a ground survey before any digging begins. This process involves creating trial holes to ensure the foundation method you plan to use is appropriate. With (or without) that survey complete, footings can then be dug to the agreed level.
The next phase involves laying concrete into the base of the trench to at least 250mm in depth. Blockwork is then built up to floor level. This method is called a strip foundation. Alternatively, a technique known as “trenchfill” involves (unsurprisingly) filling the trench with concrete to just below ground level. Both methods are completed with the application of a damp-proof course onto which the ground floor can be installed.
How does piling work
There are three main piling techniques: screw piling, pile and beam, and piled raft.
Screw piling is the simplest piling technique to execute. A small crew of ground-workers can install screw piles and brackets by hand or with the assistance of a small excavator. This method is well-suited to walls and larger structures, when used with supporting brackets. Screw piling offers a number of benefits, including ease of installation, lower costs and reduced environmental impact.
The pile and beam method involves installing mini-piles either side of a wall. Brickwork can then be removed below the affected wall, and a reinforced concrete needle beam inserted to connect the piles. The pile and beam technique is well-suited to homes on smaller plots, or with restricted access. It’s also faster and less messy than traditional mass concrete underpinning and is capable of bearing high loads.
Finally, there’s the piled raft approach. Piled raft foundations are required when an entire building needs to be underpinned, when foundations can’t be accessed or where soil conditions aren’t suitable for any other method. Piles are placed into the ground and needle beams are installed to help bear the load. A ring beam links the needles together and the structure is then filled with concrete.
When does a house need underpinning?
Cracked walls, ceilings or flooring are the tell-tale signs that you may need to have all or part of your home underpinned. Diagonal cracks, or those that reach a quarter of an inch or larger, are classic symptoms of faulty foundations, or problematic ground conditions. More severe warning signs are walls beginning to buckle. Underpinning, either using the mass concrete method or any of the piling techniques outlined above, can help to remedy these problems.
While underpinning is usually associated with foundation problems, it can also be required if you’re planning to add another floor to a building, or if it needs to stand up to increased load-bearing requirements.
The qualifications your foundation, piling or underpinning professional needs
Foundations and piling or underpinning will almost always require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will be able to advise on load bearing considerations, as well as the most appropriate technique to use (taking ground and soil conditions into account). Choose an experienced professional who holds chartered status from the Institution of Structural Engineers.
The groundworkers carrying out your excavation work should also be experienced, though they won’t need formal accreditation. A diploma, City and Guilds qualification or evidence of completing an apprenticeship is always helpful, but ultimately you should look for a proven track record of delivering groundwork services to a high standard and complete customer satisfaction.
Planning permission for foundation, piling or underpinning work
How and where you lay foundations will be determined by the planning permission you’ve been granted. This will be decided by your local planning authority, and unless an unforeseen issue crops up you’ll need to stick closely to what you’ve been given permission for.
When it comes to underpinning, you won’t require planning permission to remedy a fault with your foundations. The only exception here is a listed building, which may have certain limitations.
Insurance for foundation, piling or underpinning work
It’s crucial that your professional holds public liability insurance, to cover your property against damage. Such is the importance of this work, most structural engineers will also hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them in case anything goes wrong with the services they’ve provided.
Questions you should ask your foundation, piling or underpinning professional
- For standard foundations, which method would they use (and why)?
- Will they be using a strip or trenchfill foundation?
- For underpinning, which technique would they advise on (and why)?
- For piling, what is the most cost-effective option available?
- Can they provide a warranty (or do they have professional indemnity insurance) to cover their work?
Explore the comprehensive services offered by CDL Building & Carpentry Ltd in the Swansea and south wales areas, we cover all aspects of building and carpentry jobs including comercial and domestic. Some of the job we do are: Extensions Conservatories Loft conversions Kitchens Bathrooms Tiling Garden walls Windows & doors Roofs Repointing Fascias Guttering Flooring Patios Driveways Paving Decking & fencing Plastering All interior carpentry Lime rendering Lime pointing Sand/shoot blasting Fiberglass roofing Fencing New build home / self builds Damp Proofing Complete office refurbishments Complete shop fitting Insurance repair work CDL Building & Carpentry Ltd delivers excellence in every project. Contact us to turn your vision into reality with our professional and reliable services.
Craig and his team (Carne, Jason and the carpenters) were excellent. They were friendly, hard-working and tidy. They coped with unforeseen issues very competently. The communication between trades and with ourselves was very good. We have no hesitation in recommending them and will use them again.
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AA property and groundwork All aspects building work landscaping Building Roofing Pointing Flagging Sand blasting Small demolition Extensions Ponds Driveway specialist Resin driveways Handy man Garden clearances Jet washing Block paving Flagging Groundwork’s All work under taken
AT V.T.BUILDERS WE ARE A FRIENDLY, RELIABLE AND TRUST WORTHY TEAM. WE COMPLETE ALL OF OUR JOBS TO 100% SATISFACTION. NO JOB IS TO BIG OR SMALL SO PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO CALL. ALL QUOTES ARE FREE.
Victor was very quick, helpful, polite and understanding. He communicated well providing regular updates. Removal and replacement of Stairs was done in less than a day. Everything was cleaned and tidied up before leaving. Extremely efficient. Can recommend and would engage again.
Top Line removals & clearances
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Check out our face book page toplinesprayers uk !!!!
We are a general building and maintenance company. We cover all aspects of building from small maintenance items to full refurbishments, conversions and extensions. We have over 30 years experience and all our operatives are time served tradesmen. We pride ourselves on our quality of work and always price competitively. No job is too difficult and we specialise in structural work, composite walls, dry rot and other challenging jobs which we will execute and resolve at an extremely reasonable cost. We also attach a 'no quibble guarantee' on all our work for your peace of mind. Although we are geared mainly to commercial customers we welcome residential homeowners as well. Please feel free to email me or call me and I will be happy to discuss your requirements with you. We offer free estimates, are fully insured and can provide references if required. Andrew Truby Company Director AVT Building Solutions.
Much care was taken to replicate the original porch - an excellent job.
We are a small company, specialising in supplying quality workmanship, to customers, all our installers have aquiared many years of experience, this includes electrician, carpenters, painters, floor layers , we specialise in garage conversions, and refurbishment work ,
DO NOT USE THIS BUILDERS THEY ARE ROUGH TRADERS
Alliance building and landscapes Ltd are a family run business here at alliance we make sure all works is completed to customer satisfaction,no job to big or to small,contact us today for a free quote,book once,book right,book alliance
Thanks to Michael and the team for a great job rendering the chimney breast in the attic. Quoted and works completed in less than 48hrs. Not the cheapest of the quotes I received, but went with the positive reviews and wasn't disappointed.
Eurocenter - Online Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are one of the best building and renovation company in London since 2011. Our experience taken over many years and different architects helping us to provide a service meeting the highest quality standards in every detail, making our homes and city beautiful...
Building, groundworks,fencing and paving,landscaping,turf,and artificial grass,Decking,
LITA CONTRACTORS LTD We are a family owned construction company with over 10 years of successful commercial and residential building projects. Based in London, we help clients with all kinds of construction needs, with existing plans or brand-new designs and solutions. Some of our services include: - Ground work - Drainage - Basements - First Fix & Second Fix - Kitchen & Bathroom Fit Out - RC Frame & Steel Frame We are specialised in delivering reliable and best quality services that will last a generation.
My self and my workers have a nice way of working with clients we’re friendly polite and very clean and respectful of other people homes as we too have lovely homes . We work hard to keep clients happy and resolve problems that come there way through building projects. We also can show many recommendations from our own neighbours to people we have never met . Many thanks mark
Mark was very responsive and really helpful and informative when providing a quote for some underpinning and structural repair work. Would definitely recommend.
hello I have 15 year in the trade I am a multi skilled tradesmen who takes pride in what I do I love my job I work on a basis you not happy with my work you don't pay simple as that I am fully insured and vetted
Came out quickly and job sorted. Great service
DMH Group is a family-run business with over 15 years of expertise in providing comprehensive landscaping and building solutions. Covering a large area in the south east our team takes pride in offering a diverse range of services, catering to all aspects of landscaping and building work. From transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful landscapes to undertaking building projects of varying scales, DMH Group is committed to delivering excellence. No project is too big or too small for us as we strive to bring creativity, quality craftsmanship, and personalized attention to every detail.
We were thrilled with the work Bradley did on our garden. Did exactly what we asked, and tidied up beautifully afterwards. Would definitely recommend! Many thanks
NO UPFRONT PAYMENTS 0R DEPOSITS REQUIRED FREE QUOTATIONS. Luxury Spaces specializes in joinery, plumbing, and electrical services,l honed over 22 years to meet exceptionally high standards. Our commitment is to transparency and integrity in every project, collaborating closely with clients to achieve optimal results within their budget. We offer no-fuss financing options—simply reach out for guidance. Services' provided are as follows, Kitchen, bathrooms, bespoke staircase's, extensions, windows. As a family-operated business spanning generations, we take pride in passing down expertise from father to sons. Our dedication to excellence extends from military training—an artillery Gunner for five years—to every task we undertake. With honesty at our core, we consistently deliver value for money. Our clientele, diverse yet united in their desire for quality workmanship, inspire us to exceed expectations. To honor service professionals, Blue Light cardholders, and pensioners, we extend special discounts as a token of appreciation. For further details, visit our website: lux-spaces co,uk,
This job became a full house renovation project including 3 bathrooms, heating upgrade, electrics, painting, joinery work etc. Any issues were quickly resolved and everything was done to an exceptional standard. I can’t recommend Aaron and the team at Luxury Spaces highly enough
TCL Building and Landscapes, friendly professional service.
Quick response and turn around
Hello we are FRPM Ltd a compete property maintenance company with over 20 years experience so if it’s a leaking tap to a complete property renovation we are here to help so please do not hesitate to call for your free quote Areas we cover Worcestershire Gloucestershire Warwickshire And the Cotswolds We have years of experience working with listed buildings and pride ourselves and our level of knowledge and expertise in this area We also cover light commercial premises for maintenance contracts and adhoc works We are fully insured
DO NOT USE THIS PLUMBER! Andy MacClay trading as FRPM was engaged to fit a bathroom for a lady in her 90's. Although personable, he did an appalling job and left the poor lady with raw sewage leaking and a dreadful smell. She was very distressed for months and it cost over £1800 to put the work right. He has since stopped answering his phone and does not respond to any communication.
Handyman full property house maintenance includes softwood and hardwood door fitting all locks , window locks handles , MOULD damp moisture problems cleaning , painting decoration, garden trees branch cutting rubbish removal, fitting shelves tv brackets small fittings , small leaks taps drains radiators, blocked drains being kitchen waste drain , rat mouse control , wardrobe doors kitchen doors hinge tighten , fencing storm damage repairs no job too small reliable trustworthy fully qualified 40 years experience in the London areas
ES Building Services is a family run business with a team of highly skilled, well experienced and passionate professionals who puts your needs at the forefront of what we do. All our work is completed to the highest industry standards and compliance with current regulations is always met. We focus on providing a high end finish on all of our projects regardless of budget. We will make sure you are involved and understood at every step of the process, from design to completion. Whether it’s a simple maintenance job or a full internal refurbishment, we aim to provide a level of service that exceeds your expectations. Our predominant active contacts consist of bathroom and kitchen refurbishment work. We work alongside multiple industry leaders and have an excellent track record in providing high quality installations across London. With a skilled and mature team of professionals we have an abundance of experience in all areas of building services. We specialise in full internal refurbishments covering all aspects of the build: strip out, plastering, kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, electrics and everything in between. With over 300+ 5* reviews accross all platforms, rest assured your property is in safe hands with ES Building Services. Kitchens Bathrooms Refurbishments Electrical installation + Everything in between NICEIC Aproved Contractor. GasSafe Registered Engineers. SafeContractor Approved.
We hired ES Electrical to fit our new Kitchen and also added a toilet and shower unit downstairs. From the begening we found Harry and his Team to be very professional but also had have a very friendly approach. They listerned to our concearns during the process of the instillation and also gave us some good advice and ideas. We found them to be very tidy with their work and respected our property. Overhall we are very happy with the outcome of our new Kitchen and Bathroom,hence we have giving this rating.
General builders
We at Express Services painting-decorating-tiling and flooring provide quality professional and affordable work carried out and aim to keep the clients happy and satisfied with our work.
Hard working, honest and trustworthy. Good quality work and willing to go the extra mile.
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