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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?
MW Stone Builders
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Hi I’m Mike I Started life in the building trade 40 plus years ago as an apprentice Bricklayer. The following years I have spent mostly in domestic construction from chimney and fireplace construction to extension and house alterations. I run a small team of trades people who work to a very high standard.
If you need plasterer, painter, kitchen fitter bathroom fitter or general building work we can help you immediately. We guarantee the highest quality of work
Couldn’t be happier with the remedial painting. Friendly from the start and no upselling at all, they just got on with it and the finish is excellent. They even sorted doors that wouldn’t close, shaving them to fit, and cleaned all the hardware. The flat was left spotless, with no paint specks anywhere. Extra bits I asked for were done with no fuss, and they even offered to source a missing handle part afterwards. The place now looks crisp and brand new. Highly recommend
SS Cheema Builder Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
1
Booked for a small job, needed a new hand rail fitted on stairs, replaced two colour end panels in the kitchen and had two wall cabinets fitted. Came out when said to quote and we booked for works to be completed . Pleased with work and would recommend booking.
Richard Hames General Builder
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Richard Hames has been producing finely crafted renovation works in and around the beautiful city of Bath for nearly 30 years and has taken his work overseas to a number of locations including the Bahamas. He was born in Bath where he still lives and has gained a huge knowledge of the buildings, both both listed and non-listed in and around Bath. Richard takes the commitment of satisfying his clients very seriously. He listens, designs and works with the client to transform an initial seed of an idea into reality.
T & M BUILDING CONTRACTORS LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Phill Turner,Chris Mabe,,T&M building contractors
CHRIS WOODWARD BUILDING SERVICES. WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALL TYPES OF WORK UNDERTAKEN BRICKWORK, STONEWORK, PATIOS, PLASTERING, ROOFING, FENCING, GUTTERING ETC... CITY AND GUILDS APPROVED. LIABILITY INSURANCE. HONEST, RELIABLE & TRUSTWORTHY.
High quality work from a very friendly and knowledgeable tradesman. Very pleased with the finished job.
KASE CONSTRUCT LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Residential, Commercial and Industrial Construction
Hi I’m Mike from Bison Construction I have 27 Years experience In the industry with the last 14 of them working for myself or rather for you the customer and this is something I respect as I completely understand the stress and worry that can come with having any work done to your home but especially when it is a large costly project, should you decide that Bison Construction Yorkshire is the Building firm for you then please rest assured your in safe hands with me and my team.
Michael provided a competitive quote, turned up when required, and undertook the work competently and cleaned up well after each day. I would have no trouble recommending him and Bison Construction to undertake work in your home.
Hello, I'm Gareth from Bangor, Gwynedd North Wales. I cover all areas including Wales and England. I have been working within the construction industry for over 10 years! I'm a hard working individual, with a strong hardworking team behind me organised by myself. All of my employees take pride in their work and are able to complete set tasks. I cover a variety of areas, This includes -Roofing -Groundworks -Earth works -General Building -Landscaping
Excellent job polite efficient and would definitely recommend thanks for a great job
Kirktoun Limited is a family run construction firm based in Perthshire, Scotland. Established by father and son team Paul and Blair Brown with shared experience in construction of over four decades. With Kirktoun Limited Paul and Blair have created a unique service within the construction industry putting the client and their needs front and centre of every project. With a focus on transparency, communication, value for money and unwavering attention to detail Kirktoun Limited are here to guid you through every step of your project.
Great job, quality work, delivered on time and on budget. No hesitation in recommending and would definitely use again. Excellent.
MKM PROJECT was established 2 years ago after working self employed for 18 years. I have been involved in many projects from basement, extensions, full house or flat refurbishments and loft conversion. Structural steel fittings, footings, brick and stud walls, roof structure, flooring, kitchen and bathroom fittings, tiling, joinery, plastering & painting. I have a SMSTS course done. First aid course.
Mario is the best all-round builder I have come across. He is at home with plumbing, building, joinery, tiling, electrics and decorating work, all done in a cheerful, positive manner. He converted our decaying washroom into a modern utility room with panache and I would recommend him to anyone.
sole trader operation with over 35 yrs continuous experience. trade indentured, city&guilds1st and time served.all aspects of brickwork with particular concentration to repointing, restoration,strengthening& surface cleaning.all lime& Portland mortar done
PPS
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Steven Rose, the founder and owner of PPS, brings a wealth of expertise to the construction industry with a background as a qualified Electrician and Plumbing and Heating Engineer. Holding a Master's degree in construction project management, a Level 6 diploma in applied health and safety, and a Level 5 in Leadership and Management, Steven is committed to delivering comprehensive turnkey design and build construction solutions. PPS specialise in New buildings, Extensions, Loft Conversions, Renovations, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Landscaping, Electrical, Plumbing and Heating. Steven is a distinguished member of industry-related affiliations, including MAPM (Member of the Association for Project Management), CertIOSH (Certified Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health), and FCIOB (Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building). At PPS, our core values, are encapsulated by the acronym SERVE (Service, Excellence, Relationships, Value, and Expertise), which underlines our commitment to providing quality building services. We specialise in various aspects of the construction process, offering services such as Architectural Design, Planning Applications, Building Control, Project Delivery, and Handover and sign-off Documentation. Our approach is designed to alleviate the burden on our clients by seamlessly managing the entire project lifecycle. PPS engages vetted construction professionals to deliver quality design solutions aligned with client requirements. From securing planning permissions to adhering to CDM regulations, completing F10 notifications, and conducting safety audits, we ensure that health and safety standards are met throughout the project. We streamline the process by obtaining costs from our trusted supply partners, organising and managing the program of works, and ensuring the timely ordering of long lead material items to minimise delays. Our commitment to transparency includes producing written progress reports, keeping clients informed about project advancements, and promptly addressing any identified issues to ensure project targets are achieved. Additionally, PPS facilitates visits from Building Control Officers, oversees the issuance and registration of electrical and gas certifications, and manages resource allocation. With a customer-centric focus, we aim to create a stress-free experience for our clients, ensuring that every project is executed with precision and meets the highest standards of quality and compliance.
Experience great craftsmanship from experienced builders; we are specialist in new builds, groundwork and all form of extensions and conversions. All our tradesman are qualified and well experienced. We are also members of FMB which shows our sites have been visited by a qualified inspector to approve the work is to a high and safe standard. We offer: - -weekly task list to keep you the client updated - long term savings on heating costs as we use the best materials and methods. - saving you costs in materials as we are partners with over 6 builders merchants. -quick turnover time with extensions taking 6 weeks. -10 year building gurantee
Abdul turned up to give me a quote and just had a really good vibe about him. He was very professional and kept me informed every step of the way. An itemised invoice was provided and updated after any change so I was always aware of my costs. The team he had working on my job were professional, punctual and very polite. The work performed was excellent, I am extremely pleased with the final product and would definitely use them again and I recommend them wholeheartedly (which I have already).
Friendly, you first service. 20 years + quality construction services
Absolutely superb from start to finish. Jon does a thoroughly professional job and is a lovely man to boot. Turns up when he says he will - including quote. Found solutions to tricky bits of the job. Competitive price. Value for money Couldn't be more happy. Cheers Jon
ND Demolitions Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Hello people ? most of the jobs is soft strip out and demolition ? buildings, and houses I got in demolition, 13 years experience and all hours people ? is very friendly ?????????
Been proving exceptional service to customers for over a decade. Specialising in garden maintenance, Patios, house extension foundations and conservatory foundations. No Job too small. Construction plant competence scheme and NVQ level 3 qualified in excavations and transporting loads, with over 20 years experience. Friendly and professional service.
Regency construction is a family run business We have the knowledge and ability to carry out the majority of construction and maintenance work in house We have a good reputation and are both reliable and trustworthy Our company is fully insured and all work is guaranteed Our most recent completed and ongoing work includes Extension and loft conversion in Brighton Garage conversion in Peacehaven Replacement kitchen and bathroom in Brighton Ongoing programmed and reactive maintenance on various residential properties in the area
Great work and prices you won’t find any one better
At OCTOPUSBUILDERSLIMITED, we pride ourselves on our extensive 16 years of experience in the construction industry. Our dedicated team works collaboratively to handle every aspect of your building project from A to Z. Whether it’s residential or commercial, we ensure quality craftsmanship and excellence in every job. Let us turn your vision into reality!
Great job and would definitely rate it higher if I could. Will keep in mind if I need other jobs done around the house.
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