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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?
Over 20 years' experience High standards of workmanship Fully qualified team of builders and joiners Associated with the Apprenticeship scheme of the Construction Industry Training Board Competitive pricing Free, no obligation quotation
Beautiful carpentry work , attention to detail is amazing, hes gone the extra mile to help us transform our home. Would recommend for all joinery work doors ,door frames, bannister, skirting, loft hatch, flooring and plastering. Very good price also. Very approachable with better ideas. Have recommended Tom to everyone I know!.
RELM Interiors is an established and highly recommended renovation company based in Wimbledon, specialising in full home or office refurbishments, including loft conversions and extensions. We are dedicated to providing an efficient, personable and high quality service to transform your home. RELM Interiors has shown its ability to complete expert renovations to exceptionally high standards across London. We have a team of highly skilled and reliable tradesmen who pride themselves on their dedication and attention to detail when transforming your space into something beautiful for you to enjoy. Our portfolio of work ranges from domestic kitchen, bathroom, bedroom renovations to large scale office refurbishments, loft conversions and extensions, all the way through to one-off bespoke furnishings. We offer the full service so you can relax knowing your home is in good hands from the initial planning process through to the day the keys are handed over to your new beautifully constructed home. Our number one priority is your satisfaction, assuring you of our utmost commitment and careful approach to every project (big or small) so that you can rely on excellent quality and craftsmanship. Design is also an integral part of our process; any assistance you require in terms of kitchen/bathroom design or decision making on any interior decoration, then we can be with you at every step of the way.
Relm were fantastic. I have done a lot of renovations over the years but our regular builders weren’t available and we had to get the job done on short notice. Relm were professional, helpful and most notably stayed on time and on budget. I wasn’t able to be onsite and they kept me up to date with photos and videos. They left the building site clean and tidy and I am delighted with the quality of the workmanship. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again or recommend them to friends.
Infrasurv is able to provide a building and landscaping service from small projects such as drainage repairs, groundworks, footpath and driveway works, brickwork, fencing, facia,guttering and roof repairs to both flat and pitched. Also design services.
Excellent service and great communication. Site left tidy when they had finished and completed the job with great consideration and care. Would not hesitate to use Lou again.
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Fully insured up to £5m AND QUALIFIED, I can provide a full range of professional landscaping and garden maintenance services, delivering high-standard, reliable and detail-driven workmanship on every project. Whether it’s regular garden care or a complete transformation, I take pride in creating clean, From hedge cutting, lawn care and planting to patios, pathways, turfing and full redesigns, every job is completed with care and precision. I work closely with each customer to understand their vision, ensuring the final result is beautifully presented, long-lasting and finished to the highest quality.
Ethan and his team did a brilliant job, couldn’t recommend more. Two lads trying to hold a proper business - good on them. Polite, friendly and stayed (in the dark!) until they finished the job. After lots of time wasters, these guys were spot on, Thanks chaps.
Hi I am working more than 10 years off the building jobs I do any building jobs like: Plastering Tilling All so I can do painting jobs Brickwork Floor work Fitting bathroom Windows take out and putting new And any building jobs you need to do. Thank you
Time keeping good. Got unprofessional team . Job not finished properly.
DN PROJECT SERVICES LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Working building in Essex since 2010.
Jordan Davies
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
J.White has been building and plumbing for over 30 years, and is experienced in all aspects of the trade big or small projects. very friendly and professional with attention to detail no matter what the job, he was taught by his father and studied at Bournemouth college with citb certified.
Marius Mailat
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
All kind of building works that includes:chimney removal,flooring,window and door,kitchen fitting,painting.tiling floor and bathroom.
Hi, I am Bryan Sabin. I'm a Sole trader with 45 years of experience, having been in the trade since leaving education. Specialising In stone masonry. I can fulfil any area of General Building work to a high Standard. Registered and Certified by City and Guilds. Experience in Brick Laying, Chimney Building and rebuilding. Repair work.
Well pleased with the price and finished job. Started early on the day we agreed. Would definitely recommend
M I Bone Builders
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Family business with over 35 years experience. We are a multi trade business and can undertake everything from drawing up plans to laying carpet. We are also contractors for a number of local authorities.
Waited for a month to start the job, and then just ignored the phone. Totally messed me around . Do not use these people totally unprofessional!
R&B Services
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We have a dedication to provide a quality construction , technical and management service to all our customers. We will strive to implement a long term relationship with our clients, based on safety, quality, timely service and an anticipation of their needs. Our Company is new to Rated people but we have over 15 years experience that cover all aspects of building work.
With a combined experience of over 60 years in the trade we offer efficient, professional and customer focused services at affordable prices. Our one-stop shop services include groundwork and foundations, structural alterations, steel work and cladding, extensions and new builds and landscaping. We are proud to have highly trained specialised teams working around the clock to ensure customer satisfaction. Please do not hesitate to get in touch to discuss your requirements and ideas so we can set up a face to face meeting and provide a FREE personalised quote for your project. We answer all enquiries the same day!
Would highly recommend. Fair price and Anthony was very reliable and helpful. Explained what parts we needed and what needed to be done to fix guttering after falling down. Very polite and courteous. We believe this company does various tasks wouldn’t hesitate asking him to do a job for us again or recommended colleagues.
We are a groundwork’s and building company with 20 years experience
Jay and his team were very pleasant and helpful, turned up on time, finished the job on time and did a good job. Everyone who has visited me since the job was done have all said what a good job they have done. I would recommend them to anyone. Thanks to Jay and his team
Hi I'm Greg and my company is Makerfield Construction LTD, we are a 3 generation family run business, Our men have 4 to 41 years experience. There is no job that can not be completed to the highest standards an speedy delivery. We cover all aspects of building works, extensions, garage conversions, media walls, bathroom remodels, kitchen remodels , plastering, including MF ceilings gypliner systems floating to rendering systems i.e. Krend which we are certified by Krend and can give a 30 year guarantee. We machine apply renders. Full house renovation to new build dryline an skimming.
Can’t fault the plastering or the service really happy with the outcome.
Pure Construction Group LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Established in 2021, Pure Construction Group Limited has rapidly built a reputation as a trusted multi-trade building contractor, serving the commercial, social, and domestic markets across Northwest England. With over 30 years of combined commercial and subcontract experience, our team has driven the steady growth of our business. We pride ourselves on being large enough to handle significant projects but small enough to provide personalised attention and exceptional service to every client. At Pure Construction Group, we offer a comprehensive range of services to meet diverse needs. Our offerings include everything from strip outs and kitchen & bathroom replacements to internal and external redecoration. We also specialise in disabled adaptations, retrofit work, structural repairs, groundworks, extensions & alterations, minor building works, roofing (both pitched and flat), damp proofing, and cleaning. Our broad service scope reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions tailored to each project’s requirements.
AK Home Improvements
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
A one-stop-shop for all your home improvements & construction needs. We are team of professionals people with over 10 years of experience in all areas of building works. Our services include extensions, loft conversions, home improvements including but not limited to bathroom & kitchen installation, painting & decorating, plastering & skimming, wood flooring, carpet fitting, tiling, carpentry, electrical and plumbing services. We believe in providing a excellent service at an affordable price.
We have been trading for in excess of 30 years ,15 years as a limited company, we undertake all building works on residential and commercial buildings including planning and project management. We will look at any job regardless of size or location . We offer a friendly service and always listen to your needs Trustworthy and reliable
Calling via the Rated People phone link button is the best way to make contact for a same day reply and lowest prices, call during November for a 25% discount on all quotes, offer ends November 30th If I miss your call, leave a message or text and I'll call you back on the same day Quotes can be given via pictures, and all payments can be made via bank transfer upon completion of all works. With over 25 years’ experience in the plastering, building trade and 10+ years of Rated People positive feedback, I provide a first-class service, including damp proofing, soundproofing and complete bathroom/kitchen and home renovations from start to finish
Excellent work from Sean who shines 5 ceilings for us. Lovely finish and very clean work.
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