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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?
High quality of any work a free quote is given we do any building work from patio driveways drains compete build new fencing plastering plasterboards
We are very pleased with the work carried out by R and J Lubbock. Richard and Dean installed internal wall insulation in a couple of rooms in our house. They turned up on time, carried out the work carefully, and left the rooms clean and tidy at the end of the job. I would not have any problem recommending them.
The smallest details can make a real impact when it comes to designing a space, but only a true professional knows how to bring these details together to create a seamless design. That’s where Complete Kitchens And Renovations comes in. With over 35 years experience and a team of skilled tradesmen you'll be in safe hands. ? We work throughout the South-East providing bespoke home renovations and extensions tailored to our clients’ needs. ? From a small kitchen installation to a full house renovation, no job is too big or small.
Very happy with result.
Thiara Construction Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Quality.safety.reliability All building works undertaken Loft conversion Back extension Driveways Renovations Gardens
General Builder 19yrs in the trade Highly skilled - standard to high end jobs
Excellent decorator and builder. Professional, reliable and courteous Completed a 5 bedroom home with small building and electrical works to a high standard.
Quigley's
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Trusted local builders. Many work undertaken and all completed. Extentions, Bathrooms, Kitchens and all other aspects In building construction.
Hi im Tom from secure carpentry & renovation Ltd. We cover all aspects of property renovation and developments . We have over 25 years of experience and qualifications and pride our self in being at the top of our game the reviews speak for its self . We are a friendly and well organised company our work ethic is impeccable and extremely professional and tidy . Fully insured for all aspects of the trade.
Happy with job overall, skilled caftmanship. After job issue: Glue has leaked onto door from frame and hardened until seen on day of instalation. Was advised it can be fixed and will attend to it when passing by. The rating will be changed once this is fixed or new door installed as I paid for new door. It is not my doing thaglue leaked.
From a single wall to a complete house, inside and out, plastering/rendering. Also roofing, stonewalling, extensions and general maintenance....no job too small. Please feel free to email me or leave me a message and I'll get back to you.
Reliable, personable, conscientious, trustworthy and reasonably priced. Can definitely recommend .
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.
Hello, and welcome to Home Fixology – your friendly neighbourhood home improvement experts! At Home Fixology, we don’t just fix homes; we build trust through a personal touch that turns every project into a unique journey. If you want to see our growing portfolio of reviews, you can check us out on UK TRUSTPILOT: Home Fixology We're on FACEBOOK too: homefixologyltd Services we provide: Roof restorations: Repairing and refurbishing roofs to improve their structural integrity and appearance. #ProPERLA #Renotec Wall coatings: Applying coatings or finishes to exterior walls to protect them from weather damage and enhance their aesthetics. #ProPERLA Driveway restorations: Repairing and refurbishing driveways to improve their appearance and durability. #Resiblock Flat roof services: Repairing or replacing flat roofs to prevent leaks and water damage. #FirestoneRubberRoof Render repairs: Fixing and maintaining render on exterior walls for structural integrity and aesthetic purposes. Loft insulation: Installing insulation in lofts or attics to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. #SuperFOIL Damp proofing: Treating and preventing dampness and moisture issues in buildings to protect against structural damage and mould growth.
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Home Improvement Specialist, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Shower rooms, Extensions, Conversions...etc.etc.. FREE Quotations
Awful.
we are experience refurbishment contractors. we are reputable and reliable builders, established since 2010 and over 20years experience in building trade. using our skill and materials, we are eager to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied.
Did not received the quote / response after sent the details.
Hi we are a two band company me and my son plus contractor when we need them we do all aspects of the building game as specified in are categories from bricklaying to decorating we aim to keep all are customers happy from start to finish thanks
Really good job from Matthew. Was flexible on coming for a quote in the first instance as we both juggled life, communication was very good throughout too. Decent price and job -partial patio rebuilding and pointing -done within a few days. Will definitely hire again as needed.
Thank you for looking to consider volt developments and construction, here we pride ourselves on good hard work and quality craftsmanship. we like to put extra time in to bringing you the best quality work on your project weather it might be a big brick wall with foundations, a little driveway refurb or a restoration project ! Our years of experience paints a whole new picture for the up and coming young tradesmen. Having been trained by some of the best in the business we each bring our acquired skills to the table to give you a quick and nice clean turn around on whatever your project may be ! Here at volt, we specialise in Brickwork, Stonework, landscaping, groundworks & driveways and a-lot more (please don’t hesitate to ask! ) we also work along side some other good trades including roofers, plasters & gas engineers meaning we have alot of knowledge under our belts and a good network of connection’s within the construction industry. we were pushed to our limits in area’s of special brickwork including arches, ponds, twisted pillars & serpentines all of witch are very intricate and very desirable and make us stand out from the rest ! we are fully insured for all of our work and always work closely with any customer concerning budgets and budgeting techniques to make the process a whole lot easier for each party, we aim to make it as less stressful for the homeowner as I personally have dealt with a few who are abit unsure to start off but are overwhelmed with the outcomes and customer satisfaction ! Testimonials will all be on our page for everyone to see. Thank you for your time to consider us and we hope we can work along side anyone and everyone to get their dreams fulfilled
Spot on from start to finish. Understood the assignment and details of the job and executed perfectly. Ensured everything was done to detail. Would definitely recommend and use again. Many thanks Phil.
We have been trading for 23 years in plumbing. We offer all plumbing needs. We also have an emergency call out.
Job done efficiently and explained clearly. Prompt appointment.
NPC Decorators
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Elevate your home's style and value with our exceptional Painting and Decorating services. • Expert color consultation and design • Fast, efficient, and meticulous workmanship • Personalized service to fit your unique needs • High-quality paints, materials, and finishes • Flexible scheduling to fit your timeline Whether you're preparing to sell, refreshing a tired space, or creating your dream interior, our premium Painting and Decorating services will elevate your living experience and increase the value of your property. Invest in your home and enjoy the benefits of a beautifully updated space that reflects your unique style. Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality ensures a flawless finish that will have a lasting impact. Let us handle the hard work so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your transformed living space.
Carswells construction & plumbing has been established over 10 year for a during that period of time we have built our business on reputation, word of mouth and dedication in order to provide our customers with the best possible services in all Building works specialise in extensions all building work & bathroom fitting
I recently had Luke and his team widen an opening between two rooms in my property, which was a sizeable job requiring the installation of a steel beam. The work was managed efficiently, and great care was taken throughout the project. I’m very pleased with the results and would highly recommend Luke and his team for their professionalism and attention to detail.
As a building We strive to make customers happy ur work speaks for itself we trie to offer all our clients the best advice and services all or callout are absolutely free advice and we do not charge for inspections this is just another way to give ? people peace of mind To choose GJ building solutions?
James and Andy provided excellent advice and did a great job. The job revealed some extra work was needed but the changes were all discussed and agreed without pressure before being implemented and James was able to bring in extra team members whilst on site so the work was completed in a timely fashion. All of the team were personable and a pleasure to have on site.
We do all aspects of building work Roofing, patios, driveway, decking, painting, electrical and more
Reliable, friendly, am really pleased with the work they did. Would definitely recommend.
AD Property Maintenance Services Ltd is a modern, client-focused property maintenance company based in Central London. We specialise in high-quality handyman work, painting and decorating, deep cleaning, Venetian plaster and microcement finishes, removals, and general refurbishment services. What sets us apart? We're reliable, responsive, and transparent. Our team of trusted professionals and subcontractors deliver work with precision, care, and pride — whether it’s a small repair or a full property refresh. We don’t charge VAT, offer competitive pricing, and work weekends to fit your schedule. Backed by strong reviews and partnerships with estate agencies and commercial clients, we’re here to raise the standard — one job at a time.
Pocock developments has been trading in and around Berkshire and the home counties for some 30 years with great references. its a family run business with myself and my wife Kerry. We Produce fixed price quotations. we are Elecsa certified.
Spencer at Pocock Developments project managed our work very well. From the fully detailed quote, to advising on any pricing changes and providing some extra plastering work - got to say everything was managed smoothly and transparently, and the one hiccup over the roof tiles was put right quickly. Plus we appreciated Myron and Ivan's eye for detail and managing their work around the weather. Our two dormers look great, so thanks Pocock Development and we'd definitely use them again ????
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