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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?
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Caerphilly garden care Hedge cutting Fencing Grass cutting/mowing Brambles Overall tidy up of gardens and commercial buildings premises Jetwashing Gutter cleaning / repairs Flat pack building
Collected Piano and Stool quickly and took an old car battery too ????????
Hello Adrian here I have been in the building trade over 30 years and I have own my own business since the year 2000 and I am a joiner by trade and I still work on site each day. Thank you
Excellent job, will definitely use again. Very high standards.
Welcome to Opuluxe Building and Damp Solutions! With over a decade of specialising in the damp proofing industry and expert plastering services, our company has built a solid reputation for delivering dependable, high-quality solutions. As a family run business, we are a dedicated and professional team known for our reliability, strong work ethic, and attention to detail standing out from the larger companies! We take great pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and presentable work environment on every project. All of our work is backed by a comprehensive 15-year guarantee, ensuring long-lasting protection and complete peace of mind for our clients.
Very good standard of workmanship. Paid good attention to detail and friendly. Price was as initially agreed. Recommended.
hard working reliable and professional, years of experience property developing
Jake and team arrived on time and cracked on with a massive clearance job. Always smiling and very polite. Completed in just under a day and a half and we are very happy. Tidy and clean, well as best as you can with garden and builder waste removal. Neighbours will be happy now with our clear front garden. Thanks Jake and team. Worth every penny
I m building services Home repairs Electrics Painting and decorating Internal and external landscaping groundwork's building services renovation conversion timber building and out building driveways shed bases
Ian & Jason, were very professional, turned up on time and cleared all the debris on completion, did a very good job of re-felting shed roof. thank you Ian & Jason. allen@exactinteriors
We have 45 years experience between us in the construction industry and 25 years experience in all types of roofing including rubber, fibreglass, slate and tiled roofing. Chimney removals, facias soffits and water goods. & fitting vellux windows. We also have 25 years experience in groundworks., landscaping, operating plant. bricklaying, rendering. we specialise in new builds, extensions, renovations, loft & garage conversions & damproofing. We have a lot of experience in sourcing properties to renovate for resale and rental. We cover all aspects of home improvements.
Excellent service. Got the job done well and very professional.
Albatross Carpentry LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Established in 2005, Albatross has garnered over a decade of expertise, delivering meticulous carpentry services throughout Surrey, Sussex, London, and the neighboring regions. Our portfolio boasts successful management of diverse projects, ranging from bespoke client builds to expansive multiple unit developments. We take immense pride in fulfilling our customer's requirements with utmost dedication. To ensure impeccable results, we meticulously source and utilise quality materials from trusted suppliers, and our commitment to timely project completion sets us apart as a reliable partner for your development ventures. Our services include: 1. DESIGN + PLANNING Professional and affordable design and planning service to help you through the entire build process. 2. NEW BUILD CONSTRUCTION Our team are experienced at turning ideas into reality for commercial and private contracts. 3. FULL REFURBISHMENT High-standard refurbishments for single rooms or entire properties. 4. FIRST + SECOND FIX Comprehensive assistance for structural work and second fix needs. 5. ROOFING REQUIREMENTS We offer quality roofing services, from replacements to new installations, tailored to meet your needs. 6. KITCHEN FITTING Expert kitchen fitters as well as bespoke cabinetry options.
Good,clean,efficient work carried out quickly.
Hi, This is Alphatec ltd. We have specialised team to take all types of building jobs. We are specialised in Bathroom fitting, Plumbing , electric , new builds & renovations
Inder did a very good job of upgrading our upstairs bathroom and installing a toilet downstairs. He worked tirelessly and was very punctual. Great on communication too!
We are a landscape and home improvement company and cover north, west wales and the Midlands. We specialise in all hard and soft landscaping. We aim to carry out professional work with nptc qualifications for any arb work and over 20 years home improvement experience in the team.
Excellent service. Shaun was very communicative, and made sure the job was done well. Definitely recommend.
Domestic and commercial properties maintenance and renovations
I hired Alex he repaired all requested faults and pointed out issues other plumbers failed to sort. He sorted out all the issues causing my current plumbing problems. He was professional friendly and efficient and kept me informed throughout. I would willingly recommend him and will definitely hire him again.
Spencer is extremely efficient garden now looks great patio is a great improvement
AK Construction SW LTD is an experienced, growing building company based in Taunton, Somerset. We cover all aspects of the building, maintenance and decoration trades and we love to leave a finished job that we can be proud of. We're well known for the quality of our work and attention to detail. As such, our services are sought after from small jobs to larger projects like extensions and refurbishments. We also specialise in bespoke English Larch decking and fencing as well as outdoor offices and garden rooms to transform your outdoor areas and add long lasting kerb appeal to your home. We're available to undertake a diverse range of jobs big and small, from skilled and detailed refurbishments, bathroom remodelling, kitchen installations, carpentry, decorating, plumbing, general building and electrical repairs, to complete renovations, improvements and property extensions. Our small and friendly team of skilled tradesmen take pride in our work and strive to finish each job to a high standard and would love to come and quote for your needs. All work fully insured.
Fred and his team did a brilliant job replacing my bathroom floor and shower. Every effort was made to ensure job was completed to the highest standard and we can’t be happier with the finished product. Would highly recommend AK constructions SW for your building needs.
after three appointments to start job, never showed. Job not done.
Www.kerrconstruction.co.uk Welcome to Kerr Construction. A company with a full range of experience to ensure all projects are completed with the best quality. We cover a wide range of projects with a capable team. Ensuring the best possible outcome on all projects for the client.
J.K.ModernBuild
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Hi, my name is Jamie. my company is J.K.ModernBuild, I have many years of experience in the building trade and can offer advice on the job you need to be undertaken. we undertake many trades and furnish to a very high standard and professionalism -extensions -groundwork -landscaping -plastering & rendering -bathroom & kitchen fittings -soffits, fascias & guttering we take pride in our name and work, contact me and I would be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.
Welcome to KM Roofing- Your Plymouth Roofing Experts KM Roofing - Your Reliable Partner for High-Quality Roofing Services. At KM Roofing , we are proud to be the leading roofing professionals in the Plymouth area. With our extensive experience and unwavering dedication to excellence, we are committed to delivering high-quality roofing services to both homeowners and businesses. If you require roof repair, replacement, or a new installation, the J&P Roofing Solutions team of skilled and certified roofing experts is ready to cater to your residential roofing needs. We recognise the significance of a secure and long-lasting roof for your home, and we guarantee that each project is executed with the utmost standards of craftsmanship. Business proprietors in Plymouth rely on us for their commercial roofing needs. Whether it's flat roofs or pitched roofs, we possess the expertise to address a diverse array of commercial roofing requirements. Our objective is to safeguard the durability and dependability of your commercial property's roof, preserving your investments and assets. Emergency Roof Repairs: Unexpected roof damage can occur at any time. That's why we provide fast and dependable emergency roof repair services. Our team is on call 24/7 to tackle urgent roofing issues, delivering swift and efficient solutions to safeguard your property. Why Choose KM Roofing Ltd Expertise in Plymouth : As a roofing company based in Plymouth , we have a deep understanding of the distinct challenges presented by the local climate and building regulations. Our specialised knowledge is customised to address the specific requirements of the Plymouth community. High-Quality Materials: Our materials are carefully sourced from reliable suppliers to guarantee that your roof is constructed to endure the elements and endure the test of time. Ensuring Customer Satisfaction: Our dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction is steadfast. We maintain transparent communication, deliver precise estimates, and endeavour to surpass your expectations for each project. Fully licensed and insured: Your peace of mind is our priority. We are fully licensed and insured, providing you with assurance in the quality and dependability of our roofing services. Contact Us Today Whether you're facing a roofing emergency or embarking on a roof improvement project,
BARWORTH HOMES LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
At Barworth Homes, we stand by our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Every project we undertake is built with meticulous attention to detail, delivering lasting results that are as beautiful as they are durable.? ?Our customer-first approach means your satisfaction is always our top priority. We work closely with you to understand your vision, preferences, and lifestyle, crafting spaces that feel truly personal and perfectly tailored to to create spaces that truly reflect your vision.
MB offers all trades services for property and buildings. We undertake residential,commercial and industrial installations,improvements and maintenance. We offer honest,fair,competitive pricing alongside experience and good customer service/relations.
Very happy with job.
Andy has been working in the construction and landscaping industry for 40 years now and has gained vast, invaluable knowledge and experience in all aspects of trades. He has built up a highly reputable and respectable name for himself and has many extremely satisfied recommendations from large companies aswell as homeowners from all over the UK. If you are looking for a genuinely thorough and expert job done by a very skillful and consistent worker then Andy is the right choice. Andy will show you from first contact, true commitment and dedication by visiting you very quickly to give you a fair quotation, offering to complete the work very quickly bearing in mind how sought after his services are, he works 7 days a week. His portfolio includes high standards in all types of Fencing, Block Pave driveways and patios, all areas of Groundworks, Drainage, General Building, Demolition, Landscaping, Machine driving, Slab laying, Bricklaying and Painting and decorating. Andy only uses the best quality in materials and only brings trustworthy, long standing Labourers with him on jobs if necessary. You won't regret having hired someone who not only does what you expect and at a price that is reasonable but who undoubtedly surprises you with the exceptional quality of work he carries out on every job he takes on.
Andy Elvin did a great job, for a good price, came on time worked hard, will use him again, he moved the fence and gate, looks great; Thanks Andy . Joy.
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