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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?
Excellent time served Plasterer with 16 years building experience all over the UK .No job to small and always to highest standard possible. Experienced with:Skimming,Boarding,Damp proofing, wall removal (Steel work), extensions, Rendering, roofing, tiling, bathroom fitting Coving,brickwork , joinery. All work is guaranteed . Give us a call for your free quotation
I am extremely happy with the excellent work completed by Shaun and his team. The job was extremely challenging and required serious structural support work, building a new roof, plastering, fixing brick work and dismantling and then re-fitting a kitchen. The lads always arrived on time, did exactly what they said they would do and took only 4 days from start to finish to carry out all of the work. The lads were really friendly and all rubbish was taken away. I couldnt recommend them highly enough
Brandon Green Homes
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
started business as parternership in 2007, we grown our portfolio from 2 houses to 86 units today, we also helped over 100 homeowners and 25 landlords including housing association, we help from a full consultancy package to build yur dreams to even help with leasing to our corporate contacts if you wish to invest. featured on HOMES UNDER THE HAMMER, we pride our selves in job well done, we always make sure we start projects within 2 to 3 weeks from time we agree and we always deliver our projects on time; we make the impossible a luxury and affordable possible while we take all the stress away; BGH combines technical expertise with exceptional customer service, ensuring every client benefits from cutting-edge technologies tailored to their home needs. with industry leading certifications and proven track record, BGH is a top choice for those seeking efficient, reliable and successful renovations We ate fully accredited Offer full guarantees and insurances including insurance backed guarantee and deposit guarantee We are specialist in new build, extensions, heavy refurbs, hmo and luxury conversions
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.
I needed my shed reducing in size urgently. Haki came in half an hour and gave a very reasonable quote. He and his brother worked tirelessly over 2 days to do the job. It looks great and they tidied up after themselves too.
We are a family run business with lots of experience no job is too big or too small many thanks onestop team
Very pleased with the quality of the repair. Would recommend them to Neighbours.
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midland improvements has over 35 years in the home improvement market from a kitchen to a bathroom from a garage conversion to a full renovation whatever your home improvement needs we have the experience and trades to complete the job ,
Garage conversion into living accommodation, en-suite, and retained small section for storage accessible from both outside and inside. Great work that's stood up to almost 4 years of solid regular use so far.
Rose Projects
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
A Construction Company based in South West London. Craftsmanship is our main focus ensuring every detail is finished to our high standards. Our Communication and Understanding are key. We are always on hand to help and assist you with any questions throughout the build. Our Projects are always built on time and budget. We are fully insured, All our tradesman are Qualified and References available upon request. Regards Rose Projects
General Building and maintenance New builds Exstensions Restoration Renovation
We had them in to install insulation in our upstairs floor, replace the sub floor, replace some lights, install a loft hatch, and board out our loft. On top of this they discovered a problem in our roof that they fixed. We were incredibly impressed by all of the staff that attended on site. They were friendly, polite at all times, and worked really hard, to a high standard. I couldn't recommend James and his team more, and we've already started talking to them about a further project.
Maidtowork: Transforming Spaces, Inside and Out At Maidtowork, we take pride in our journey from a trusted cleaning service to a comprehensive solution for all your interior and exterior needs. What started as a humble cleaning company has evolved into a multifaceted team catering to a diverse range of customer requests. Our Services: Cleaning Excellence: Our roots lie in providing top-notch cleaning services. Our experienced team ensures that your interiors gleam with cleanliness and hygiene. Garden Oasis: Responding to the demands of our valued customers, we've expanded our services to include garden clearance and restoration. From planting and re-turfing to seeding, paving, and building sheds and fences, we transform your outdoor spaces into thriving havens. Interior Mastery: Beyond cleaning, we specialize in refurbishments, new construction projects, and enhancing key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring. Whether it's a complete overhaul or a targeted improvement, we bring a decade of expertise to every project. Why Choose Maidtowork? Comprehensive Expertise: Our diversified range of services reflects our commitment to meeting your every need, both inside and outside your home or workplace. Experienced Team: With a seasoned team of seven professionals, Maidtowork brings over a decade of collective experience to ensure the highest quality in every project we undertake. Customer-Centric Approach: Customer satisfaction has been the driving force behind our expansion. We listen to your needs and tailor our services to exceed your expectations. Reliable and Trustworthy: Maidtowork has earned a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. You can count on us to deliver exceptional results, consistently. Transform your living and working spaces with Maidtowork — where expertise meets excellence, and your satisfaction is our priority. Inside or outside, we've got you covered!
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.
17+ years doing plumbing and electrics. City & Guilds • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating: Suitable if you have some relevant knowledge and skills, focusing on domestic hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, sanitation, and gas safety. • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Installing and Maintaining Domestic Heating Systems: Covers safe working practices, installation and maintenance of hot water systems, drainage systems, and domestic heating systems. • Level 3 NVQ Diplomas: Aimed at those with considerable experience, offering pathways in domestic plumbing and heating, including gas, oil firing, and environmental technologies like solar thermal hot water systems . I am also accredited by these associations. • Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE): CIPHE is a professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, aiming to ensure high standards of practice and professionalism. It offers various resources and training opportunities to its members . • Engineering Council: The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession, including gas engineering. It oversees the Engineering Accreditation Board (EAB), which accredits academic programs for Chartered Engineer and Incorporated Engineer status. This accreditation process assures the competence, ethics, and professionalism of engineers in the UK and abroad . • APHC Certification Ltd.: Accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), APHC operates several government-authorized plumbing and heating certification schemes. These include the Competent Persons Scheme, which allows businesses to self-certify their compliance with building regulations, and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, certifying the installation of renewable technologies . These bodies play crucial roles in maintaining high standards within the plumbing and gas engineering sectors, offering pathways for professionals to demonstrate their competence and professionalism. For further details, you may visit the respective websites of CIPHE, the Engineering Council, and APHC.
Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, ensuring that every project reflects our clients' vision and requirements. A family run business, (recently relocated to Cambridgeshire) with years of experience in the building industry, we understand that every project is unique. Whether you're looking to renovate your home, carry out essential maintenance, fit out a new office space, or embark on a new building project, we approach each task with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working closely with clients to ensure their ideas and needs are at the forefront of every decision. Our skilled team bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. We take pleasure in providing a wide range of trades to meet all of your building-related needs. We specialise in the following on Rated People, though provide a comprehensive range of services for all your building and property maintenance requirements: Plumbing & Heating Tiling & Bathroom Fitting Painting & Decorating
Harry and Mustafa where very polite, professional and excellent customer service. Kept me informed through out the process and all with smiles, that this days is a bonus. Thank you
I represent a company with a strong and established presence in the market. Specializing in bathrooms, kitchens, and comprehensive renovations of real estate and apartments, we have 33 years of experience in delivering high-quality projects. In addition to renovations, we also offer services in loft conversions, new extensions, and other general building works. Our expertise and track record ensure that we can handle a wide range of construction needs with precision and excellence.
Andrew excellent job removing an old bathroom and installing a new walk in shower & toilet. A good job well done quickly with plenty of updates
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
Build once and right.me and my team offer you guaranty and security for the work that we perform.we are fully insured and this is the most important thing.we will get the dreams come true with happy end plus we can offer you guaranty for at least 2 years. please see all the pictures below
Excellent job and reasonable prices as
I’ve been plastering for 35 years with vast experience in all aspects of traditional plastering
good workmanship
NORTH WEST LONDON RENOVATIONS is a well established, trustworthy, reliable and professional company. We serve Acton, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kilburn, Paddington, Brent, Westminster, Hampstead, West Hampstead, Primrose Hill and all surrounding areas of N, NW and Greater London. Our service is professional, caring, and high quality. Our customers rate us highly for our ability to stick to deadlines, and for the quality of our workmanship. We provide a professional service from the initial free quotation to the end professional finish. Our service is friendly, clean and tidy, and reliable. We consider no job as too large or too small and offer very competitive prices
Had scaffolding up very quickly. Started job on time and finished in a week. Very impressive. Good communications and reasonable price.
All aspects of electrical work undertaken fully qualified professional service with 20 years experience.
Really quick to respond, turned up as planned & the work carried out was excellent
Building company based in wednesbury providing quality workmanship with individual design to meet your requirements.
Excellent service. Very professional and work completed to a high standard, within the given timeframe. Will definately be hiring again.
family run business with over 20 years in the roofing industry we can meet all of your roofing needs from flat roofs fibreglass felt or rubber we do small single slate and tile repairs to whole new roofs all UPVC products dry verge systems dry ridge systems all types of guttering basically anything to do with your roof chimney repairs to lead work we do it all hard and soft Brick layer re-pointing /
I call Phill and sons 3 days ago to fix a leak on my roof. I did have the valley fix by an other roofer but they did not do anything just to take my money. I was a bit suspicious but I was happily surprise when I call Phill who repond to my call very quicly. He is very friendly and most of all very professional. So so please with Phill I'll will recommand him anytime.Thank you Phill for your excellent job
We are a small team of 12 covering all trades. We have been running for 7 years and slowly getting bigger. We are interested in giving free advise and a free quote to any project large or small. Fully Insured and Qualified team for all aspects. building projects Lenny
If you want a botch job, rushed in order to fit in other jobs, no consultation, just does what he thinks, promises everything but doesn't follow through, then this is the tradesman for you. Don't hire Lenny if you don't want to pay someone else to fix his mess.
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