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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?
Welcome to JUTES your reliable & trusted builder for: Property Extensions, Loft Conversions, Renovations & Maintenance We provide the highest standard of property renovations for both the home and commercial businesses. With our friendly team we offer services from general building, loft conversions, kitchen fitting, bathroom fitting, structural alterations painting & decorating to plumbing, roofing repairs to carpentry. And because our services are available 24 hours a day, you know we're always here when you need us.
Excellent high quality service, Francis and Sheila even came out to do the work on a Sunday for us! Thanks and would definitely use Jutes again.
Aw home and garden improvements Gardening Trees felled Stumps removal Hedges Garden tidy ups Flagging Driveways All aspects of flagging block paving Jet washing Clearances garden tidy ups Restoration Pointing House clearances Small demolition Unit clearances Thanks for looking Call now for free quote All work fully insured public liability
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jarad London Construction Company have partnered with homeowners, designers and architects to deliver unrivalled construction, renovation and refurbishment services across London and the Home Counties.
job is done very quickly.
Joiint Construction
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
JoiintConstruction is a Hampshire-based construction company, backed by a team of highly skilled craftsmen and professionals dedicated to delivering projects of any size from concept to completion. Whether you need assistance with design, construction, or both, we ensure a seamless process and top-quality results.
No job is too big or too small for Builder Brothers! With over 15 years of experience in the field our company is confident that we can provide the best service that meets your expectations.
Simply the BEST! I would give them 10 stars if I could. Outstanding work, outstanding service, outstanding quality, outstanding level of detail and outstanding people. Shadi, Rabee and team, not only sorted out my leak, they undertook a major project to repipe my home, fix electrics, paint , put up new storage space, carpentry work , fixing walls etc. The first time that I have seen any builder finish weeks ahead of schedule. They are extremely well organised and operate to the highest degree of precision.
Danny General Builders specialises in structural work, extensions, refurbishing, loft conversions, roofing, fitting bathrooms and kitchens, and painting and decorating. All employees have more than 10 years experience and are insured.
Danny did an absolutely great job with my set of alcove shelves. He was friendly, diligent, extremely polite and did an excellent job. Highly recommend
Quigley's
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Trusted local builders. Many work undertaken and all completed. Extentions, Bathrooms, Kitchens and all other aspects In building construction.
Over 30 years of experience as a multi-tradesman. As well as being a qualified plumber I specialise in other wet trades e.g Decorating, Plastering & Rendering, Tiling & Bricklaying. Also, I fit laminate flooring, skirtings, architraves and timber stud work. I am always punctual and reliable, and clean and tidy in my work. I am also happy to assist in planning and designing projects.
Kevin arrived on time, did an amazing job on my mother’s bungalow, cleaned up afterwards. Polite, friendly and professional. Good price too.
London/ Essex - Surrounding areas I am a hard working with great attention to detail, I ensure all the work I carry out is to a high standard and I take pride in what I do. I make sure that I am fully equipped for the job and make sure customers are always happy.
I am a local tradesman with 25 years of experience in the building and plastering industry. I have a great, reliable team behind me who are not only friendly and professional but will also finish every job to the highest standard possible.
Really happy with the work carried out. Any issues I raised were dealt with and any snagging I needed addressing were resolved. Would recommend Luke and his company and use him again.
Hi,my name is Wally my company is old oak building & landscaping we cover a very wide range of the building trade and work to a very high standard,and we always look to work with our clients to get the best finish we can for all thank u for looking
Wally and the boys were great, quick and easy and a great clean up job once they were done. Will definitely be getting more done by these guys
K&M BUILDING SYSTEM is a business that specialises in all aspects of building. From extensions to driveways, kitchens, bathrooms or demolition. No job is too big or too small. We are fully covered with public liability insurance giving us and our customers peace of mind when carrying out your project. We always aim to complete your job on time to a very high standard with very competitive prices. We provide building services across Edinburgh – 7 days a week.
Lambarde is located in the Sidcup area and covers most of the South east, we have a combined experience of 62 years, I started carpentry and building work as soon as I left school then going to college for two years becoming a fully qualified carpenter with Levels 1,2, NVQ Diploma. All of our team carry public liability insurance, so you’re in safe hands. We also work alongside other fully qualified trustworthy tradesman for our refurbishment works. We pride ourselves on: • Workmanship • Time keeping • Honest communication Portfolio on Instagram: Lambarde_ We specialize in: • extensions •.Loft conversions • Kitchens • Internal and external doors • Skirting and architrave • garden room/man caves • wall panelling • Roofs cut/pitched • Decking • Flooring laminate/herringbone • Ironmongery • Cladding • Refurbishments • Painting and decorating Free quote available
Scott and his team did a fantastic job with our loft conversion. He was approachable, honest and friendly throughout. But most of all an excellent carpenter who did a first rate job with our loft and also dealt with our many requests and amendments with patience and professionalism. I have recommended Scott to friends and neighbours already and would recommend him for any work you are doing.
Sam Construction Services
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
About Sam Construction Services Welcome to Sam Construction Services! We are a professional and reliable construction team, driven by a passion for building quality projects and exceeding client expectations. With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in delivering high-quality construction services, including: - Renovations and extensions - Loft conversions - Kitchen and bathroom renovations - Driveways, patios, and landscaping - General building and repairs Our team is fully trained, highly skilled, and dedicated to completing every project to the highest standards. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, ensuring results that stand the test of time. At Sam Construction Services, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We pride ourselves on: ? Clear communication from start to finish ? Transparent pricing with no hidden costs ? Timely project completion within agreed deadlines We are fully insured and guarantee that all work meets industry standards and regulations. ???? Contact us today for a free quote and let us bring your construction projects to life!
TCL Building and Landscapes, friendly professional service.
Quick response and turn around
HEX360 was founded in 2015 by Craig Lewis with the solid foundation that a degree in construction management provides. Before launching HEX360, Craig’s former life saw him working at Princess Yachts, where he founded his skills and acquired his particular attention to detail – but if you’ve reached this page, you probably aren’t interested in hearing Craig’s life story… you’re really interested in finding out what makes HEX360 different to all the other construction companies out there. So read on and discover our difference. Working with most construction companies can feel a bit like finding your way in the dark – you just don’t know where to go to get the information you need. The stereotypical construction company that makes matters so confusing and complicated that everything they say goes over your head is, unfortunately, not just a myth. They’re out there, and they’re confusing clients as we speak. So, it’s no wonder that so many people put off their project or come to a grinding halt partway through – after all, it can all feel just too overwhelming. Luckily, HEX360 is here to change your perceptions and prove that not all construction companies are the same. We’re dedicated to working with you, not for you, and that means taking a collaborative approach right from the get-go. With our 8-step process, we’ll clearly outline every stage of your project so you won’t feel overwhelmed, and thanks to our use of in-house project management software, you’ll have complete transparency for every aspect of your project. We are committed to flexibility, accessibility, and approachability so your project can run smoothly, whether you’re updating your kitchen, renovating or extending your entire home or developing a large commercial property. You’re more than a number on a spreadsheet to us, and we never bite off more than we can chew. Our attention and efforts are solely dedicated towards you and your project during your time with us. Unlike with some construction companies, once we begin work on your project we don’t simply move on to our next. We provide industry leading account management during the full life cycle of the project, meaning you aren’t forgotten about once you sign on the dotted line.
i would like to add this group of workmen are the best i have seen for a long time.they are prepared to go above and beyond to ensure a professional and efficient project is completed. Above all they are honest ,trustworthy and obliging in every way. Highly recommended.
We are a local firm with over 50 years building experience, my son Gareth is a CICS Gold card Carpenter & my oldest son is a City & Guilds advance craft Bricklayer as am I. All of our staff are qualified in their respective trades. We build extensions, carry out house repair & maintenance work, patio and slabbing work, groundwork and excavations, General concreting work, drainage and much more. We fit new kitchens, stairs, doors and windows, all carpentry work undertaken. We have many passed clients who are happy for us to pass on their details as a reference for new clients to use.
Excellent communication and friendly team. On time, great work , on budget. No hesitation in recommending at all.
Cheshire Sales
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
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.
Happy with job overall, skilled caftmanship. After job issue: Glue has leaked onto door from frame and hardened until seen on day of instalation. Was advised it can be fixed and will attend to it when passing by. The rating will be changed once this is fixed or new door installed as I paid for new door. It is not my doing thaglue leaked.
For over three decades, Millington Construction has been a trusted, family-run business dedicated to turning customer ideas into reality, consistently delivering within budget and on schedule. Whether you envision an extension or require maintenance, our comprehensive expertise in the construction industry ensures all aspects of your project are covered. Comprising a skilled team of 12 professionals, each member brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to every project. Our Services: Extensions: From single-storey to multi-storey extensions, our experienced team of builders skillfully executes diverse projects tailored to meet your specific requirements. Maintenance: Trust us for meticulous maintenance services designed to keep your property in prime condition. Our Approach: At Millington Construction, we firmly believe in the strength of our team. Our highly knowledgeable tradespeople are passionate about transforming customer ideas and dreams into tangible results. They are supported by our design and structural engineering partners, enabling us to confidently undertake projects of any size. Why Choose Us? 1. Pride in Craftsmanship: We take immense pride in our work, ensuring attention to detail in every job we undertake. 2. Driven Workforce: Our team is motivated and committed to delivering excellence, ensuring your project's success. 3. Customer Satisfaction: Your happiness is our priority; we strive to exceed your expectations at every stage of the project. 4. Certified for Security: We prioritize safety and security, ensuring that our work meets certified standards.
Quick to respond to job request, all work done efficiently and professionally. Have already requested millington construction projects Ltd to return and do another flat roof
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