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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?
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With over 41 years' experience in creating high quality bespoke building projects, look no further than Turley Properties Ltd for all construction / Landscaping services for your property. * Call Us Now For A Free Quote
Established in 2002 as a sole trader, I have developed a number of properties ranging from barn conversions to new build apartments. I have also project managed a number of bespoke new builds and conversions for high profile clients. All trades available!
Fantastic service from start to finish. Would certainly recommend. Has every trade available and the job went smooth.
I am builder I have been working from last 9 years in this building industry And trying to provide quality work to british standard I can do any kind of building job If you need my any help Feel free to contact me
Feras Awayed Painters
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Work is a trust, and whoever among you does work, let him do it well. My work is what proves my skill.
JCP Building Contractors are a reliable and experienced building company providing a wide range of building and construction services across Farnborough and the surrounding areas. We work with both domestic and commercial clients, delivering high-quality workmanship on projects of all sizes. Specialising in extensions, groundwork and structural works, our skilled team also undertakes brickwork, bricklaying and landscaping services, ensuring a complete, end-to-end solution for your project. From initial preparation and foundations through to the finished build, we manage every stage with care, professionalism and attention to detail. Whether you are planning a home extension, require structural groundwork, or need expert brickwork completed to a high standard, JCP Building Contractors are committed to delivering resultsj you can rely on. We pride ourselves on a friendly, honest approach and believe that no job is too big or too small.
With over 15 years building experience in the construction industry, GN Building Services (Stafford) Ltd are experts in all aspects of construction and project management. We specialise in both traditional and cutting-edge design and building methods. GN Building Services (Stafford) Ltd is not only a building company. We cover the entire project, from planning, design, building, renovating, electrical installation, tiling, and plumbing. We do not use subcontractors; all work is completed by our own employees. This means no delays, no waiting for specialist tradesmen; we finish the entire job within budget and on time.
If you want building work done then GN Building Services are brilliant, not just excellent!. Before we said to go ahead he had introduced us to four former clients and showed us the work completed. He and his team are probably the hardest working tradesmen I have ever come across and talk about working to time and budget. I should really keep this review quiet as they are very much in demand and I need some more work doing - but I can not rate them highly enough.
BA provide a very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable service. We excel in helping with design and thinking outside the box.
Simple job turned out to be not so simple. Turned up exactly when he said he would, did a good job, including taking on the extra degree of difficulty we had not foreseen. Job ran over from the single day expected, and returned the next day to finish off. Polite, efficient, punctual, and stuck to the price agreed.
Our vision at Customex Build & Electrical is to deliver innovative thinking and a first class service in all we do in support of our customers. We will endeavour to be the very best we can be, whilst acting with integrity, professionalism and honesty and operating in the best interests of our customers and the environment at all times. All our team are qualified to the highest of standards providing the best service and workmanship. Weather its a small cupboard to be built or a double story extension, with 30 years + of experience combined you can be sure you can rely on us!
Local small business offering multi trades. All pictures are of jobs undertaken by myself. Kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, plastering, tiling, decorating and carpentry. High quality workmanship carried out by a reliable conscientious tradesman.
Quoted but just too expensive
RATED PEOPLE LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Skilled groundworker with over 25 years of varied experience, including block paving and drainage work.
I would recommend Andy. He spent time evaluating the job required with a view to looking at less costly but effective options. Most of the time I was out at work, he called everyday when he was leaving to update me on progress. He communicated clearly and so there was no confusion with what the job involved and the final cost. He was also very nice to my dog. Thanks Andy.
Family run fabrication and welding business and construction company offering all types of manufacturing and installation that works closely with our clients our aim is to provide fabrication and welding solutions also building construction with honesty and quality also help to complete project on time
What an amazing job John did. He is a very talented ironworker . Our gate looks like it was made for our house . Would highly recommend .
At CLG Projects we offer a range of services and specialise in Construction, Hard/Soft Landscaping and Groundwork. We take pride in combining our experience and passion for our work with our client communication to help achieve their vision and make the duration of their project as affordable and stress free as possible. We keep customer satisfaction as one of our top priorities as we believe that good working relationships are key to a successful project. Based in Essex, serving Essex and the Surrounding areas. Services we provide Construction Landscaping Groundwork Refurbishment Garden Rooms/summerhouses Conversions Driveways Fencing Pergolas Drainage Why work with us - Professional workmanship - Friendly service - 10+ years experience - Complete building and landscaping package - Fully insured - Free, no obligation quotations
Not the cheapest but also not the most expensive. Very friendly. Sent a detailed quote ahead of time. Turned up when he said he would and everything was very well organised and efficient. Very happy with the quality of the work and the job as a whole. Highly recommended.
At Sabr construction We Provide customers with the best quality of work for affordable prices.
Nice work, many thanks Omar
We are a midlands based building company who specialise in renovations, extensions and upgrades to your property. We also carry out all general repairs. We have many year’s experience with time served tradesmen who are fully qualified in all aspects of work required for your project, and we carry out all projects with our own in house team members.
We are a long established company and pride ourselves on job satisfaction, we can also provide references from previous customers and also photographs of previous work all are work is fully guaranteed
James did a fantastic job. He refitted an existing bathroom and created two new ensuites, and also built wardrobes and panelling in our hallway. He is reliable, trustworthy, friendly and his work is of great quality. I fully endorse and recommend him- he turns up as expected every day, communicates well and delivers brilliantly. We are quite happy for anyone to come and see his work .
General construction, refurbishment .......
Alex has completely refurbished my bathroom and i am thrilled with the result. Alex is very skilled and his work is excellent. He takes pride in what he does, and his attention to, and the care he takes with the smallest details, are not seen so often these days. Alex is obliging and helpfull with advice, and will consult his customer on details. He gets on with the job and does not mind staying late until he's finished what he is doing and cleans up before he leaves. He is a very pleasant man.
Berkshire Building & Construction
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We offer only the best in workmanship. Punctual, honest and are here to work with you to achieve your goal however large or small on your property. Our work is never sub-contracted out and all work is done by or with us or our team. We have an excellent team that can excel in any given project. We have access to the best plumbers, electricians, plasterer’s, ground workers, brick layers and decorators. James’s background and passion is carpentry with level 3 city and guilds carpentry qualification 20years personal experience in construction and also 4th generation carpenter but through the many many years in the industry have learnt new skills and branched into other trades along the way. Thus being able to take care of everything in a property from the roof down to the oak flooring and everything in between. Ryan’s expertise is brickwork, ground work, patios, block paving, drainage etc. Ryan has over 20 years experience in the construction industry specialising in all forms of brick work on site and also on extension and new building homes for clients. All work is carried out to the highest specification while being competitively priced. All trades that are under our umbrella are all qualified and have all the correct tickets and certificates in their specific field. We pride ourselves in the work we do but we also take great pride in our communication with our clients. Keeping good lines of communication throughout the process. Giving you peace of mind and keeping everything transparent as your vision is our goal Our list of works that can be undertaken by ourselves Conversions Extensions New build Out houses Loft conversions Steel fitting All roofing work All 1st carpentry All 2nd fix carpentry Stairs Kitchens Bathrooms Flooring Electrics Plumbing Gas engineering Brickwork/Blockwork Plastering Garden walls Retaining walls Painting and decorating Block paving and driveways Decking and fencing Fibreglass roofing We look forward to meeting you and leave you feeling once we have finished the job that you were glad you chose us
Jd projects have been going 28 years in the construction industry,we are a family run business operating from ruislip covering greater London and beyond. We specialise in all thing building from bathrooms to lofts fencing tiling and more. We would love to hear from you either it be a small job or large project expect a friendly timely quote. John Jdprojects
27 years experience a company you can trust,leave nothing to detail.
Steve replaced our guttering, downpipes and a bargeboard. It wasn’t a straightforward task as it’s an old property but he did an excellent job and carried out the work quickly and efficiently at a competitive price. I would highly recommend him.
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