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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?
D&M PROPERTYS INC LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
At D&M Property's, our goal is to make your dream a reality. We have a wide range of specialities, including kitchens and bathrooms, interior decorating and carpentry, to large house extensions. Our company is committed to delivering the highest standards of excellence on every project. Our quality of service, customer satisfaction and competitive prices are what make us the right choice for you next project.
SQUARE ROOT GROUP LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Let us square root your vision with our team at Square Root Group. We accommodate all budgets and given our handpicked team of structural engineers and architects, we’re well placed to get your project off the ground and deliver on that vision. No matter how big or small, we can bring your idea to life and complete anything that you have in mind. You’ll always be kept fully informed of your project’s progress throughout.
Acorn Roofing
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Acorn roofing has been an established business since 1980. Specialising all aspects of roofing work, we also provide removal of asbestos and all hazardous materials, we provided efficient and satisfying removal service of all outer buildings such as garden sheds and and demolition of concrete garages. We at Acorn roofing strive to establish a friendly and professional service with all our customer.
Constructpedia LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
It’s hard to choose the proper construction company when you have so many options, so which one is the one you are looking for? In an over-saturated market we are trying to make the difference by being professional, involved and confident.
MRT DEVELOPMENT AND BUILDERS LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
MRT Development and Builders Ltd is a trusted name in construction, known for our problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and innovative designs. Our mission is simple: to exceed the expectations of every client we serve. We offer a range of services including conversions, extensions, groundworks, new builds, and roofing. With a combined experience of over 100 years, our team of 5-6 professionals ensures that every project is executed with precision. While our core team is small, we have a network of reliable subcontractors for electrical and plumbing work. Based in Leeds, North Yorkshire, and Lancaster, we are dedicated to serving these areas with quality construction services. Choose MRT Development and Builders Ltd for reliable craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence in every project.
MJ Deco Handyman
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
General repairs & all DIYs Woodwork, Laying of laminated and hardwood flooring, Flat pack construction, Tiling, Bathroom and kitchen installation, Freeview aerial and sat dish installation and setting up. General maintenance Painting & decorating Plumbing Water and central heating (not gas)
Loftspec LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Loft conversion Building Contractor We are based in Uxbridge. Our domestic projects include both new construction and repairs/restorations. Occupied and fully operational job sites are never a problem. And we can also plan, manage, and build multi-phase jobs.
UKP Construction
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
UKP Construction is a business, company with over 10 years experience, And we’ve been providing the highest quality work for our customers ever since. we are dedicated to meeting your specific requirements, delivering bespoke work on budget and on time. Which means you’ll enjoy peace of mind from start to finish.We undertake all aspects of building work e.g.: Brickwork, Ground Work, Foundations, Extensions, Loft Conversions, Roofing, Patios, Demolition,Driveways,Painting/Decorating, Damp Proofing,Kitchen/Bathroom Fitting,etc.Residents who wants to build their dream home, UKP Construction is business who understands their customers needs.
N H Building and Carpentry
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
N H Building & Carpentry: I am based in high Wycombe Buckinghamshire. Friendly,reliable service,specialising in all Building & Carpentry work.
Mac-Jones Builders
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Mac-jones builders are professional builders and decorators , we’ve been in service for 24 years our expertise are installing and maintaining boilers, lift conversions, plumbing, tiling, patios slabs, painting and decorating, gardening, carpentry, wooden flooring, carpet, fitted kitchen and bathrooms electrical and many more. We are proud of what we do and our main aim is customer satisfaction. We take health and safety seriously and we always protect clients property and clean after us .
Eastwood Builders Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We ( James and small team as and when required), undertake small to medium sized building works. I have been in business some 20 years now (5 as a limited company). I am a fully time served bricklayer, a fantastic plasterer (my brother is a time served plasterer, so having worked with him 20 years almost! as good!). I am also a civil quilified engineer and fully insured to £500k for all structural works, from steel beams to foundations etc. Works we love to do include knock throughs creating open plan living areas, plastering, smaller single storey extensions, wetrooms, Damp-proofing (DryZone approved), Gargage conversions, all maintenance works, GRP Roofing. I would like to say I am a nice guy, and will discuss all options with you what ever the project and come up with a solution that suites everyone. Thanks. James
GG Builders
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
DJC Building Services Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Hi my name is Damien and I’m the Director of DJC building services. I’ve being working in the construction industry for 20 years. How it works. Once you get in touch with DJC we will arrange to meet with you to discuss the work your hoping to get carried out. We will then provide you with a free detailed quote. Once you are happy with the quote we’ll then arrange a starting date with detailed plan of each stage and a timescale for the work to be carried out. Our team is comprised of highly skilled tradesmen that will ensure all work is carried out with the upmost professionalism and to an extremely high standard. We will work with you to make sure that the build is fitting in with your budget requirements, without sacrificing the quality of the materials. You will be kept in constant communication myself and the build team and given weekly update on costs and the completion time scale. Who’s in our team? Groundwork’s Bricklayers Joiners Glazers Electricians Plumbers Roofers Plasters
S E LOTHIAN CONSTRUCTION LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are a new partnership with over 30 years experience in the building trade. As a small business we are able to work with you on a personal level ensuring that all jobs are completed to your exact specifications. We pride ourselves as professional, skilled tradesmen and to that end guarantee all our work. We are able to cover all manner of jobs from home improvements, through to conversions, extensions and new builds (and everything in between!). We are very happy to discuss all prospective jobs with you so please don’t hesitate to contact us. Excellent references available on request
BUZZ MODE LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Buzz Mode Ltd provides all the experience trade people what’s your building project requires. Our service is professional, cost effective and reliable. My company it’s new but I have over 10 years of experience in the building trade. We work closely with our customers to establish their requirements, yet provide our suggestions and advice in order to get the best result. Some of the main services we offer are: * Total house Refurbishment * Kitchen fitting * Bathroom fitting * General Renovations * Painting and Decorating * Laminate flooring * Tiling * Driveways * Extensions and Conversions * Garage Conversions * Refurbishments and Renovations
PERIOD HOUSE BUILDERS LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Specialist builder renovating restoring and extending Period buildings .I have been working on Period Houses since 1987 and in the Cotswolds since 1991 when we restored two holiday cottages for the national trust. We mainly work for private clients. We carry out Stone and timber frame building repairs.Reroofing,conversions and extensions
STERLING BARRETT REINFORCEMENT LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Sterling Barrett Reinforcement Ltd cater for all your foundations and reinforcement needs.
PRESA CONSTRUCTION LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Welcome to Presa Construction Ltd we are a Cheltenham based building company and will consider all building work. We take pride in every job big or small. Qualified tradesman.
Dynamic Service Solutions
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
When it comes to fix,change or build the interior of your home Dynamic service solutions are happy to help. Our priority is best quality of work,satisfactory price . Dynamic service solutions offer you a professional service with over 10 years experience and a real focus on customer satisfaction.. Our service: ,Kitchen installation, Bathroom installation, Extension, Loft conversion Full refurbishment General building www.dynamicservice.uk
Self Employed
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
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