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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?
DUMICON LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Construction company with main builder having over 16 years experience in the trades. Good prices and great quality work is ensured when we finish projects and all types of insurance certificates for this company are available on request.
The Cubiq Construction team brings over 25 years of industry experience. Our SMSTS-qualified managers are skilled in delivering high-quality projects, ensuring client satisfaction and peace of mind. We are able to take on every aspect of all kinds of works, from surveying to design to structural calculations through each construction phase. What we offer is beautiful projects at attractive prices with a high standard of finish. The way we deliver is what makes us to stand out from other companies and and makes us a leader in the field. We are unique in the structure of our business, which has been formed to maximize quality, speed and efficiency for our clients and teams. We are committed to delivering on these aspects and our company’s vision. Highly professional services. Using the latest mechanical equipment. British standards high quality materials We provide the most reasonable prices. Following the global design. Undertake to meet the deadline.
We are a small but capable building company. The images attached to my profile shows our current project. 6 new homes in Dursley. These are 5x 3 story homes and 1x 2 story home. This project has been completed over the last 14 months with some major structural complications that we have over come with skill and perseverance. 3 types of retaining walls implemented to help secure the land. Complicated foundations, both in depth and location. 36 pile foundations at a depth of 9 meters. My company can provide a structural engineer, architect, our own in house Gas safe engineer and all the trades to complete your project no matter how small or big. For those that require it we are registered with Advantage Structural Warranty allowing us the ability to offer a 10year structural warranty for new builds. Should my profile catch your eye then please do not hesitate to contact me.
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With over 25 years of experience, we are a fully insured professional building company specialize in all aspects of home improvements, We are a team of hard workers, giving the best at all the time. We pay a great attention to details and we put the quality first. Keeping the work area tidy is a habit for us. Quality and meeting the deadline are very important factors for us when we doing a job. Our goal is to achive customer satisfaction when we doing a job! We offer competitive prices and free quotes
Excellent family run business with father (Marion) who is the main man for the job Reasonable quotes and prompt with phone calls and replies Would highly recommend the team
House Extensions, Loft Conversions and Renovations Specialists
We have found drainage problems which the insurance company will not honour due to incorrect installation during this project. This has cost us dearly.
BJK Building Services Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
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ALL ABOUT HOME CONSTRUCTION
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are an established company with more than 30 years experience of building and constructions around Europe including Greece and England. We currently cover the entire Sheffield Area and also within 40miles. We are a team of high skilled professionals with a keen eye for detail and we place a particular emphasis on good customer relations which includes trust and reliability. Our main aim as company is complete client’s satisfaction, delivering all projects within budget, time scale and to the highest of standards. We take on any building construction work you need including, including: - Roofing - Tiles - Garden Renovation - Full House Renovation - Decoration ...And more! We can provide pictures of previous jobs too.
HMR CIVIL ENGINEERING LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Builder Boys
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
With 10+ years of experience in the industry, Builder Boys Service brings a wealth of expertise and proven success to every project. Our extensive experience allows us to deliver top-quality workmanship, exceptional service, and unmatched professionalism. Trust in our seasoned team to bring your building visions to life with precision and dedication that only come with years of experience. We understand the importance of meeting deadlines and strive to complete every project within the agreed-upon timeframe. Our efficient planning, skilled team, and streamlined processes ensure that your project progresses smoothly and is completed on schedule. You can trust us to deliver exceptional results without compromising on quality, ensuring your satisfaction with our punctuality and dedication to meeting your timelines. We are deeply committed to providing our clients with the highest level of dedication and transparency throughout every step of their building journey. Our honest approach ensures that you can trust us to deliver on our promises and provide reliable solutions tailored to your needs. With Builder Boys, you can count on a partner who is genuinely dedicated to your satisfaction and committed to building lasting trust and relationships.
Gabrica Ltd provides reliable and high-quality property refurbishment and maintenance services across London. We specialise in kitchen and bathroom installations, tiling, flooring, carpentry, painting & decorating, and general home improvements. With years of hands-on experience, we take pride in delivering clean, precise workmanship and completing projects on time and within budget. ✔ Fully insured ✔ Attention to detail ✔ Clean and tidy work ✔ Friendly and professional service Customer satisfaction is our priority.
Brilliant. Efficient, hard working, friendly, professional, good vale and quality work. I'm very pleased and will use again.
We are General Building Services ANGEL BUILDING@BUSINESS We look after our costumers for 26 years. All Work Undertaken
With over 35 years of industry experience in Northern Ireland, Aquaforce is Newtownabbey’s local experts when it comes to building services. Whether it’s domestic, contract or commercial work, no job is too big or too small for our highly skilled workforce. Our friendly and reliable team offers value for money and expertise across a range of building and construction services for both private and commercial clients. From extensions, repairs, loft conversions and damp proofing to insurance work and decorating, we handle everything. If you’re home or workplace is in need of repairs or renovations, don’t hesitate to contact Newtownabbey and Northern Ireland’s premier building services today.
Messed me around for weeks and then on the day job was due to start, they said they couldn't come. Very disappointed in the level of service. Avoid.
5 star work we specialise in all home improvements and landscaping?
Did not hire
Philip Bamford
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We specialise in new builds, extensions, conservatories , loft conversions , garages ect. And all our work comes with a full written garrantee . Plus references are provided with every quote
We’re an established start to finish building company that pride our selfs on our professional nature and due care and attention to the customers needs, the company boasts professional trades in Bricklaying, Joinery, Electrics and Roofing. Between us we have over 55 years of experience in the trade and you will not be disappointed with our ambitions to please.
L B ASHFIELD BUILDING SERVICES are a small family run construction business covering Norfolk, Suffolk and the whole of East Anglia, Specialising in Bricklaying, Extensions/New Builds, Groundwork, Landscaping, Property renovation/ Maintenance and much more. We believe customer satisfaction is key and provide a very high standard of workmanship on every job we do no matter what it involves.
Lewis & his team have been an absolute pleasure to deal with throughout the build. I've not been this impressed by workmanship, cleanliness and work ethic for a long time and I would recommend them to anyone going forward.
A & L Ever Ready Cleaning & Building Maintenance LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
I've been working in the maintenance Industry for the past 19 years and i've worked for 6 different councils in London, I've been trading since 2012 with this company.
Outstanding work and highly recommend Lucky of A&L. Impressed with their professionalism, attention to detail and general tidiness. My large garden was overgrown and untidy and was pleasantly surprised at the work and outcome carried out by A&L.
Mp roofing services take a friendly and professional approach to all customers and provide free and no obligation quotes whatever your job entails ,we are highly recommended in the local area,we also are highly recommended on other sites ,our regular jobs span from general gutter repairs to new flat and pitched roofs , new facial soffits and guttering , pointing repairs and Complete roof overhauls . Thanks for taking the time to read our introduction and look forward to hearing from you .
Did a great job on my roof. Cleared all rubbish and kept working until the job was completed. They did the job at a very fair price.
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!.
We are a company that has highly skilled qualified tradesmen in all services we provide. We currently have 2 companies under our umbrella: JTL Roofing & Cladding We specialise in all types of roofing and cladding, from flat roofing to tiled roofs, to zinc to industrial units. The team has got you covered! - JTL Fencing & Landscaping From domestic to commercial, our qualified team of fencers have been trained to the highest standard. Whether you need closeboard fencing to picket fencing, panel fence to security fencing, we have a solution for you. This company also specialises in building your perfect outdoor space. whether it is a patio or a driveway, new artificial lawn or a decking area. We have got it covered. All of their garden transformations are built around the clients requirements. JTL Group Ltd are committed to providing the best service, best quality of workmanship and best value for money in the current market. Get in touch now for a free no obligation quote, or just for a bit of advice. we are here to help!
James worked really hard and even mended our back gate for us even though we didn't ask him too, fantastic
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