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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?
JW CARPENTRY AND BUILD LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Welcome to JW Carpentry & Build Ltd – a reliable, cost-effective builder based in Bristol. Established in 2020, we’re a family- run company, priding ourselves on delivering outstanding results that enhance your home’s value and functionality. Specialising in beautiful house extensions, property conversions and property renovations, we approach every project dynamically, delivering to your requirements and transforming your home to suit your needs. From new roofs and emergency roof repairs to full property conversions and storm damage repairs, we handle every project with care and expertise. Whether you’re planning a complete new build home, private development, or restoring a listed building, we can provide a fully project-managed service from start to finish. Our skilled team ensures high-quality craftsmanship, prizing professionalism and attention to detail.
***Building the future.... ***Renovating the past...*** TA Building Firm. offers professional services plastering, rendering, and building work. We have years of experience in this line of business. In addition to plastering and new builds, we carry out a vast range of other services including, Our services are: * Single Extensions * Bricklaying & Blocks * Chimney Repairs * Plasterboarding & Plastering * External Rendering * Bathroom Instalments * Wall/Floor Tiling * Roofing & Facials * Block-paving & Landscaping * Kitchen Carpentry * Handyman jobs Our aim is to provide you with a reliable and friendly service.
Taff did a fantastic job renovating 2 bedrooms, including taking back to brick, removing a chimney and skimming walls. Also arranged for electrician to fit lights. Taff is very friendly and personable and always felt comfortable having him nd his team in the house. Would recommend.
We take pride in delivering all jobs professionally, with exceptional attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality workmanship. Every project is completed to the highest possible standard, using reliable methods and care from start to finish. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we work closely with every client to ensure their needs and expectations are fully met. We stand behind the quality of our work and always aim to provide dependable service, honest communication, and results you can trust. Our goal is to build long-term relationships with our customers by providing outstanding service and achieving 100% customer satisfaction on every job.
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Hi, I've been in the trade of building for 20 years with a keen eye to detail. I'm reliable and honest. I'll will always keep you updated on the progress of any project and always make time to ensure that my customers are happy during and after the projects are completed. Assuring you of my best intentions Darren
I found Darren to be friendly and professional. His quotes were reasonable. The jobs changed slightly once the work started and Darren took the time to explain the options. Some changes required additional money from me but I was happy to pay as the end result was worth it. I would definitely ask Darren for quotes in the future.
We specialise in the complex property refurbishment projects. Having years of experience we provide the highest quality services in following areas: all kinds of carpentry/joinery, internal/external decoration, kitchen/bathroom refurbishment.
Amazing work, professional, flexible. So lovely and helpful. Can’t recommend Slawek enough!
Dundee based family run business specialised in property maintenance and improvements.
Excellent service. Very professional and efficient. Very tidy and a great job done! Will definitely use again!
DC Building
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
I have been working as a builder from 2010 with good experience and knowledge about all tipe off contruction ! we undertake all tipe off jobs small or big ! I have my own team and always looking to make our client's happy ! reliable and always there in time thanks !
Local builder decades of experience,
Thank you
Came at a moments notice and solved our problem. Thanks!
I have a sssts certificate.”site supervisor course” First aid at work certificate Public liability insurance -Building works and renovations. -Brickwork -Groundwork’s -Interior work -Exterior work -Pointing
Dan delivered exceptional service during the repointing work at our house. He consistently demonstrated professionalism and courtesy, impressing us with his punctuality and polite demeanor. The work was completed as quoted, and the quality of the finished job was excellent. We are thoroughly satisfied with the results and would gladly enlist Dan's services in the future.
ACUBUILD SOLUTION LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We do new build and home renovation, specialised in kitchens and bathrooms installation, plumbing and heating.
We specialise in structural works, underpinning, steelwork and basements. Our experienced team are also experts in damp control, waterproofing and tanking solutions and all our work is guaranteed, offering our clients complete peace of mind.
We had a retaining wall fixed in our basement. Kevin was great at communicating and helpful with the issues we had. The team working were great, polite, and kept the place clean and tidy each day. Very reliable. Thanks!
Build Right
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are a small buisness that pride ourselves in our quailty of work we cover all aspects of bricklaying works from new builds to repair work aswell as all aspects of groundworks from small patios to driveways hard landscaping etc General building works undertaken Fully insured NVQ qualified All work guaranteed 20 plus years experience
With over 15 years of experience. We can offer groundworks, patios, driveways, drainage, fencing, turfing, concrete works and much more.
Great job by the guys and really good people and value for money
Mk kitchen and bathrooms is a small family run business covering the essex area. We cover all aspects of kitchen, bathroom fitting and complete internal house refurbishments. Including carpenty, tiling, plumbing, plastering, painting and also electrical work.
GIZA SOLUTIONS LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Giza Solutions is renowned for its exceptional performance in executing and completing a wide range of domestic and public development projects with utmost excellence. With a wealth of experience and expertise, we have perfected our craft in a wide range of endeavors, from modest home renovations to lavish architectural ventures. Our unwavering commitment to our company values is evident in everything we do. At Giza Solutions, our approach is characterized by innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. We strive to exceed expectations, always delivering projects that are a testament to our unwavering dedication to excellence.
KCTLondon is a design-based Construction firm operating from Greater London, delivering quality services to clients’ satisfaction and within budget. Our products have remained high-end but our prices are competitive giving us the edge over many others.
I was very pleased with the work done. All the tradespeople were very helpful and pleasant We were very pleased with the works.
Quick&Easy Developments Ltd is a leading property development firm, dedicated to delivering streamlined, high-quality solutions for residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects. Known for our efficiency and cost-effectiveness, we focus on meeting modern client needs with innovative designs and sustainable practices. Our team is committed to transparency, speed, and exceptional service, ensuring that every project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. At Quick&Easy Developments, we simplify the complexities of property development to create spaces that inspire. We believe preparation is everything , We are friendly and hardworking Team that works to a high Quality and Standard. Services -Extension -New Build -Loft Conversion -Paving & Slabs For driveway and Garden -Paint and decoration -Home Improvements -interior and exterior painting -Door Stripping -wooden Windows Stripped &painted -Anti Vandal Coating -Wall Murals -Property Maintenance -property Repair -Install Plasterboard -Easy Filler Plastering French Style . -Multi Finish Plastering -Rendering
BTL Building & Landscaping
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
BTL Building & Landscaping – Creating Timeless Spaces, Built To Last At BTL, we specialise in transforming outdoor & indoor areas into extraordinary spaces that reflect elegance, functionality, and timeless appeal. Whether it's a luxury garden retreat, a bespoke outdoor living area, or a comprehensive property renovation, our building and landscaping services are designed to exceed expectations—every time. Crafted for Excellence We are not just builders or landscapers—we are artisans of space. Our mission is simple: to deliver high-end solutions that not only elevate properties but enrich lifestyles. From concept to completion, we bring a level of precision, care, and craftsmanship that sets a new standard in the industry. Each project we undertake is treated as a unique expression of our client’s vision. Our team collaborates closely with homeowners, architects, and developers to ensure every detail aligns perfectly with your goals—whether you’re seeking to increase property value, create a stunning visual statement, or build a sanctuary for everyday living. We would love to part of your journey creating spaces you thought you could only dream of. BTL Building & Landscaping Creating Timeless Spaces, Built To Last
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