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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?
At ICON_Interiors , we are a family-oriented construction business with over 15 years of experience delivering high-quality building services. From kitchen and bathroom installations to full house renovations, loft conversions, and restaurant refurbishments, we pride ourselves on being able to take on projects of all sizes—no job is too big or too small. Our team brings a vast knowledge of various trades, allowing us to handle all aspects of construction with confidence and skill. We also collaborate with a trusted network of specialist tradespeople to ensure every project is completed to the highest standards. Whether you're planning a small renovation, a major extension, or any construction work in between, we are committed to delivering exceptional results. With numerous satisfied clients, glowing references, and a portfolio of completed projects, we are confident that we can bring your vision to life. Contact us today to discuss how we can help with your next project!
Sam Construction Services
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
About Sam Construction Services Welcome to Sam Construction Services! We are a professional and reliable construction team, driven by a passion for building quality projects and exceeding client expectations. With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in delivering high-quality construction services, including: - Renovations and extensions - Loft conversions - Kitchen and bathroom renovations - Driveways, patios, and landscaping - General building and repairs Our team is fully trained, highly skilled, and dedicated to completing every project to the highest standards. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, ensuring results that stand the test of time. At Sam Construction Services, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We pride ourselves on: ? Clear communication from start to finish ? Transparent pricing with no hidden costs ? Timely project completion within agreed deadlines We are fully insured and guarantee that all work meets industry standards and regulations. ???? Contact us today for a free quote and let us bring your construction projects to life!
Family company who started trading in 2013 .Our mission is to impact lives, offer our greatest services and advice to homeowners and to develop ongoing relationship for the future. In an ever more tough environment which is governed by the big companies we still believe that developing a good relationship with people is paramount. We always give 100% in order to deliver big or small projects on time with a great sense of duty and responsibility. This being said we are here to offer out our five star services to you in a way that we would like any business regardless of their domain to provide . Many thanks and God bless you. Tudor
Tudor was phenomenal - arrives on time, has quality work, and provides exceptional advice. Would use him and his brother again in a heartbeat.
Hello, thanks for stopping in at Courtney Construction! We are a family run general building and landscaping company built on family values. Across the team we have over 10 years in the building trade with various different skill sets. Nothing is beyond our capabilities and we offer a turnkey solution on every project with our customers satisfaction and work quality as our main priority. We cover a large array of different jobs internally and externally, residential and commercial from conversions and extensions to drive ways and garden designs. Between the team we have numerous qualifications from construction, refurbishment and restoration to brick laying and more.
we are a construction company based in the north east with over 25 years experience in the construction industry. we have a fully trained time served team of employees who work to the highest of standards. Our speciality is extensions and house refurbishment and we also undertake insurance work i.e. fire, flood and impact damage, with customer satisfaction at the top of our list. we offer a full package, from the foundation excavation to final decoration, meaning we can efficiently complete jobs without waiting for outside tradesmen to turn up. Regards Colin, Mark and the team CAM construction Group ltd
Colin from cam construction was extremely helpful with our quote for potential extension work to a home we were looking to purchase. He made himself available for a specific appointment at the property, gave us some great ideas for what would be possible then fully costed it up, and even accompanied it with a proposed planning drawing. The service we received was extremely professional. We haven't been able to go ahead with the purchase for unforeseen reasons, but would recommend cam thus far.
We always aim to keep our customers happy and we love recommendation we have years of experience and a very friendly respectable team we use the best equipment to ensure our customers get what they desire.
Great job!! Very pleased with the new fencing. Thanks.
Hortn LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Welcome to Hortn We are building contractors that have been serving the community for over 20 years. Our team of experienced professionals specialise in various building services such as custom home builds, renovations, groundwork and commercial construction. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is what sets us apart from the competition. Our Services We offer a wide range of services including custom home builds, renovations, and commercial construction. We are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship and outstanding customer service on every project. WHAT WE OFFER Extensions Loft Conversions Home Improvements Garage Conversions Building Alterations Renovations Windows General Joinery Plastering Painting and Decorating Drainage CCTV Drain Surveys Groundwork Fencing Driveways Patio Porches Fascia Installation Soffit Installation Gutter Installation Electrical Plumbing Heating Flooring Tiling Fitted Kitchens Fitted Bathrooms Fitted Bedrooms Home Studies Site Clearances
J4H Civil Engineering Ltd is a trusted company providing a range of property maintenance and home improvements for domestic and industrial customers in Feltham, Middlesex, West London, and the surrounding areas.
Delighted with the service received from this company. Completed the job to quoted budget and well within the maximum timeframe quoted including doing some extra work (painting hallways, replacing spotlights) that weren't in the original job. Everything looks really good, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
Welcome to RY Interior Design & Renovations, where our passion for exquisite design meets the art of transforming spaces. Based in the heart of London, we have over 10 years experience in the construction industry. we are a beacon of innovation and elegance in interior design and renovation. At RY Interior Design & Renovations, we believe that your space is a reflection of your unique taste and lifestyle. Our mission is to create environments that are not only visually stunning but also functional and comfortable. Our team, comprising seasoned designers, skilled craftsmen, and attentive project managers, is dedicated to delivering bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s individual needs. - Services: Tailored interiors: • Painting, decorating and styling. • Kitchens and Bathrooms. • Living A Read, Bedrooms and other spaces. • full renovation and remodelling. • Bespoke joinery and custom woodwork. • Flooring and doors. Advanced building solutions: • Extensions and lofts. • Plumbing, electrical and technical service. • Rendering and external works.
Electrician at Self employed electrical engineer
Came out short notice. Managed to squeeze me in. Due to short notice of getting room plastered 3 days later. Had 4 double plugs put in. In chrome like I wanted. They were professional and cleaned up after themselves. Will definitely use again
At Designs and Developments we welcome the chance to work with you on your project. We have the experience and technical knowledge to guide and assist you in making the correct choices. We offer a design, supply and install service or if you prefer any combination of the three. We work with selected specialist suppliers and manufactures to ensure a finish to an extremely high standard of craftsmanship. We are more than willing to go that little bit extra to ensure you get exactly what you want and more. We are proud of the services we offer which is why we are recommended time and time again. We pride ourselves on the high level of service, professionalism and expertise, all of which can be seen in the work we produce. All domestic work is undertaken — No job is too big or small. We offer Call Outs to all our customers. All work is fully guaranteed. We specialise in providing a wide and varied interior and exterior services portfolio which is aimed at giving you piece of mind by choosing one company. Our services include bathroom and kitchen refurbishments, extensions and loft conversions, flooring including tiles, laminates, engineered and solid woods, painting and decorating, curtains, wooden blinds, rugs and carpets.
E SAINT GEORGE Ltd is a London & Essex based construction company. We specialise in all aspects of Home Improvements and strive to provide excellent work in order to achieve each individual clients vision. Our Customer Focused Service, ensures that we Communicate-Resolve-Produce superb tailor made projects. E SAINT GEORGE Ltd has an outstanding track record for delivering projects on Time and on Budget. All of our surveys are thoroughly analysed and concisely priced. Our pledge is to deliver all clients with Flat-Rate Costs for all of our contracted services. At E SAINT GEORGE Ltd, we value our highly-skilled team members as the core ingredient to completing every project successfully. HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES: - Kitchen Installations - Bathroom Renovations - Flooring (Laminate/Wood) - Tiling - Painting & Decorating - Structural Engineering & Design Services BUILDING WORK SERVICES: - Loft & Basement Conversions - Extensions (Single/Double) - Rendering / Plastering - Patio & Driveway Installations - Gardening & Landscaping - Gas Safe Services - Electrical Services (NICEIC) - Handy Man Services
Endrit and his team were wonderful to work with - friendly and professional and nothing was too much trouble for them, despite me changing aspects of the kitchen renovation and install during the process. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect and that I was happy with all aspects. My new kitchen looks amazing and I can't recommend Endrit and his team highly enough - I have already recommended E Saint George to friends and will be getting them back to install my bathroom.
All brickwork,slabbing,steps,monoblocking,fencing & drainage.All landscaping and garden design.I have 40 years of experience,and have never left a customer unhappy with my work.I will offer the best advice for the job in hand.
Property Solutions LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Property Solutions Ltd Every Roofing Solution At Property Solutions Ltd, we are dedicated to delivering superior roofing solutions. With our wealth of experience, we have become the go-to roofing company for both residential and commercial clients. Our team of skilled professionals takes pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring that every project is completed with precision and attention to detail. From minor repairs to complete roof installations, we use only the highest quality materials to guarantee long-lasting results. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our business. We strive to provide excellent service, transparent communication, and fair pricing, building strong and trusting relationships with our clients. When you choose Property Solutions Ltd, you can rest assured that your property is in safe hands. Let us protect your investment with reliable and top-notch roofing solutions. Contact us today for all your roofing needs!
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Free quotes. Free Advice. Public Liability Insurance. Clean & Tidy Worker. Over 25yrs Experience in the building trade. We are a friendly family run business. We cover All roofing work undertaken, repairs to complete Re-Roof. Flat Roof. Chimney repairs. Fascia. Soffits. Guttering. Pointing. Also Landscaping. Patios. Blockpaving. Driveways. Fencing. External & Internal Painting. Brickwork. Extensions. Small jobs are welcome.
A really good job. Very happy with the finished product. Waiting on a quote for something else now.
Rated-Trades
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are a local building company, experts in extensions and refurbishment with over 30 years experience. We have fully qualified tradesmen and public liability insurance. References available, no upfront fees and honest advice. Our latest project involved raising the roof level of a bungalow, extension and complete internal alterations. Before and after pictures below.
Wow, that was a long time ago and I forgot to leave a review! All I can now confirm is that the job was completed and to my complete satisfaction.
CHIS REFURBISHMENT CARPENTRY JOINERY TILING PLUMBING ELECTRICALS
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
HELLO. MY NAME IS GRIGORE CHIS A MULTI TRADESMAN WITH MAIN TRADE CARPENTRY, JOINERY WHO WORKS IN PARTENERSHIP WITH 4 OTHER PROFESIONALS. WE COVER A LARGE RANGE OF TRADES LIKE CARPENTRY, ELECTRICITY, TILING, PLASTERING, PAINTING, PLUMBING.
Fast response; prompt communication; understood parameters and limitations; completed job super well and quickly. Intend to hire again for a number of jobs.
Family run Building company, established since 2002. We specialise in new, full builds, extensions and renovations, self build projects, kitchen and bathroom renovations, loft conversions. We undertake all building requirement’s.
Very efficient and friendly service. Highly recommended and will definitely use again. Thank you.
Quality Spec Building Service LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
At QSBS LTD, our name stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence and precision in the construction industry. Quality Spec Building Service encapsulates the core principles that drive our co mpany. QSBS Ltd is dedicated to transforming visions into reality. We understand that property design and construction is not just about creating physical spaces but about crafting environments where memories are made and moments are celebrated. Our mission is to breathe life into designs and functionality, providing spaces that are both beautiful and practical.
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