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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?
London Development uk ltd is our company, we have been trading for over 12 years in the construction business. - We are a fully insured company with a big portfolio of jobs completed and we are friendly and reliable on any work and business that is coming across. - We can do big jobs as new buildings or full refurbishments, basements, extensions, lofts conversions etc and also we can do small jobs as bathroom refurbishments or even smaller is always space and time for a new job. - We guarantee you that you will get the best workmanship on your job with best skills and acknowledge in the construction industry, time effective and costly effective for customers. Try our company and you will gain the benefits!!!
Peter contacted me and was amazing, professional with his quote and recommendation. Very clean, tidy service and very open and honest. Peter and his team are excellent builders.
Baltic Star Build
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Our Service We offer free no obligation quotations. Our quotations are always detailed and fully inclusive. Our residential projects includes renovations, loft conversion and extensions. Working on occupied and fully operational homes are never a problem here at Baltic Star Design & Build. Your Build As experienced building contractors, we offer a complete end-to-end client experience from inception of the design of your project, to the build and any additional items such as bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. Why Us Our extensive project management and construction skills along with a multi-disciplinary team, enables us to provide turn-key solutions and beautiful design. Building your Future.
CHIS REFURBISHMENT CARPENTRY JOINERY TILING PLUMBING ELECTRICALS
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
HELLO. MY NAME IS GRIGORE CHIS A MULTI TRADESMAN WITH MAIN TRADE CARPENTRY, JOINERY WHO WORKS IN PARTENERSHIP WITH 4 OTHER PROFESIONALS. WE COVER A LARGE RANGE OF TRADES LIKE CARPENTRY, ELECTRICITY, TILING, PLASTERING, PAINTING, PLUMBING.
Fast response; prompt communication; understood parameters and limitations; completed job super well and quickly. Intend to hire again for a number of jobs.
Our building services company RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has over 15 years’ experience in the industry. We have been helping customers in London/Essex and the surrounding 10-mile radius by providing professional, trustworthy building services. We know it can be hard to find a builder that you can rely on. RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has a wealth of experience and is known as one of the best builders in Essex. We pride ourselves on providing a professional, caring and high-quality service and always meet our customers’ needs. Each contractor that works for RMR Building & Renovation Ltd is fully qualified and insured and delivers on timekeeping, quality of work and value. We offer a full range of building services, from major rebuilds to smaller jobs such as masonry repairs, including: New Builds Alterations, Extensions & Conversions Brickwork Concrete Plastering & Screeding Tiling Painting & Decorating Kitchens & Bathrooms Roofing Services Re-pointing Septic Tanks Excavation Services Soakaways Foundations External Works Drainage If you are trying to find a builder near you, why not give us a call? Our friendly, professional team will be happy to talk through your needs and give you a free, no-obligation quote.
Professional, quality work,worth money
Standard Building LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
LOOK FORWARD TO MORE LIVING SPACE Do you or your family need more space? Maybe a house extension to provide a dining room or a new kitchen? Perhaps you’ve increased the size of your family and now need further bedrooms? Our experts can help you decide where and how you extend. Our services include: EXTENSIONS & PORCHES GARAGE & LOFT CONVERSIONS RENOVATIONS ROOFING - Flat Roofing - Conservatory Roofs & Roof Windows - Roof Repairs and Replacements - Fascias, Soffits & Guttering We use expert advice even before you finalise your plans. If you can’t build outwards have you considered a loft conversion? Our dedicated page will provide more information. Standard Building have helped many people extend their living space over the years and we never get tired of seeing satisfied clients enjoying their new found space.
Excellent time served Plasterer with 16 years building experience all over the UK .No job to small and always to highest standard possible. Experienced with:Skimming,Boarding,Damp proofing, wall removal (Steel work), extensions, Rendering, roofing, tiling, bathroom fitting Coving,brickwork , joinery. All work is guaranteed . Give us a call for your free quotation
Came on time as promised, worked non stop till the work was completed, Shawn & the team were very friendly & did a great job, very happy with the price & quality of the finished job, would definitely recommend & use again.
NO UPFRONT PAYMENTS 0R DEPOSITS REQUIRED FREE QUOTATIONS. Luxury Spaces specializes in joinery, plumbing, and electrical services,l honed over 22 years to meet exceptionally high standards. Our commitment is to transparency and integrity in every project, collaborating closely with clients to achieve optimal results within their budget. We offer no-fuss financing options—simply reach out for guidance. Services' provided are as follows, Kitchen, bathrooms, bespoke staircase's, extensions, windows. As a family-operated business spanning generations, we take pride in passing down expertise from father to sons. Our dedication to excellence extends from military training—an artillery Gunner for five years—to every task we undertake. With honesty at our core, we consistently deliver value for money. Our clientele, diverse yet united in their desire for quality workmanship, inspire us to exceed expectations. To honor service professionals, Blue Light cardholders, and pensioners, we extend special discounts as a token of appreciation. For further details, visit our website: lux-spaces co,uk,
Aaron came out quickly to give us a quote to change bath to step in shower. Gave us a good price and was able to fit us in because of a cancellation. Had a couple of issues with finishing touches but Aaron was as good as his word and came back out to fix them. Tidy worker and good communication throughout the whole process.
We pride ourselves on the quality of our work. Tailored to help you in the construction of projects whatever the size and build value.
Excellent work at the right price. Helpful and timely. Restored my confidence in builders.
LEO POP CONSTRUCTION
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are at your disposal to help you with Leo pop landscaping paving construction Ltd We arrange tiling works, gardens, paving and other interior paint?ing and exterior jobs .
ANR Construction are a company based in St Ives Cambridgeshire. We specialise in all aspects of the building trade from larger Construction projects to smaller and more intricate interior works. We have professional tradesmen with NVQs in City and Guilds.
Slow measured start- due to getting out of date fixtures - fittings brought upto new standards - finished well and good quality work
Rent & Renewals
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
From owning my own estate agents to now having my own maintenance team, i now have over 20 years of experience. We currently maintain over 60 flats in block in NW9 . No job is too small , from changing a tap to doing a loft conversion. 2 of our main qualities is the quality of work but just as importantly the reliability
We have been working at this trade for over 15 years. My company and works people hold a number of different NVQ qualifications such as electrical, engineering, railway engineer, civil engineering. We take customer service very seriously and we ensure to reply as soon as possible when someone contacts us. We also ensure we give a fair deal for a great service in return.
Mr Mema is a very pleasant, patient and polite worker who worked through bad weather and did a beautiful job building my garden pathway and walls which is admired by my neighbours. I will certainly use him again.
Aw home and garden improvements Gardening All aspects of flagging block paving Jet washing Clearances garden tidy ups Restoration Pointing House clearances Small demolition Unit clearances Thanks for looking
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Fedora and Sons Ltd is your trusted construction and renovation partner in London and its surroundings. Our dedicated team of 5-10 skilled professionals specializes in a wide range of services, including roofing, building, bathroom fitting, floor fitting, gardening, carpentry, driveway paving, and more. With a commitment to quality, clarity, and efficiency, we deliver superior results across all trades. Count on us for clear communication, quick response times, and unmatched expertise to bring your vision to life.
Very pleased with the work carried out which was to a high standard. Reliable and hard working. Quality of work excellent at very good value.
We are an established building company that has been trading for 20 years.Our work covers all types of construction from new builds to repairs,including extensions and loft conversions.All our work is high quality and reasonably priced.No job is too small
Job was easy to arrange, done quickly & good price too. Very pleased & would definitely use them again.
Over 30 years experience in all joinery, paintings and building.
Roman responded quickly to our request and within a week the work was completed efficiently and to a good standard.
Hi im Tom from secure carpentry & renovation Ltd. We cover all aspects of property renovation and developments . We have over 25 years of experience and qualifications and pride our self in being at the top of our game the reviews speak for its self . We are a friendly and well organised company our work ethic is impeccable and extremely professional and tidy . Fully insured for all aspects of the trade.
Do not use this building firm
We are a Derbyshire based building company who work to very high standards and expectations all our staff and sub contractors are time served professional people Monument castle has been trading since 2009 and have built up great relationships with trades and suppliers during this time , We undertake all types of building works from roofing to new build homes
Extremely happy with work carried out, first class job at the right price, would recommend to family and friends.
We are very pleased with the work carried out by R and J Lubbock. Richard and Dean installed internal wall insulation in a couple of rooms in our house. They turned up on time, carried out the work carefully, and left the rooms clean and tidy at the end of the job. I would not have any problem recommending them.
Experience is nothing without passion and will to put in the work and keep up with the latest inovations!
I recently hired Sergiu from SR Bespoke Joinery to address a bathroom leak and repair the resulting damage to the ceiling, as well as re-tile the area behind the sink. Despite some complications in locating the leak, Sergiu approached the situation with impressive calmness and logic, ultimately identifying and resolving the issue effectively. Throughout the project, Sergiu exhibited professionalism and punctuality. He maintained a clean work environment, ensuring that everything was tidied up.
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