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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?
We are a small company, specialising in supplying quality workmanship, to customers, all our installers have aquiared many years of experience, this includes electrician, carpenters, painters, floor layers , we specialise in garage conversions, and refurbishment work ,
Good communication throughout the process. The job was well done. Premises left tidy. Rubbish collection arranged. I would definately use again.
Property Solutions LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Property Solutions Ltd Every Roofing Solution At Property Solutions Ltd, we are dedicated to delivering superior roofing solutions. With our wealth of experience, we have become the go-to roofing company for both residential and commercial clients. Our team of skilled professionals takes pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring that every project is completed with precision and attention to detail. From minor repairs to complete roof installations, we use only the highest quality materials to guarantee long-lasting results. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our business. We strive to provide excellent service, transparent communication, and fair pricing, building strong and trusting relationships with our clients. When you choose Property Solutions Ltd, you can rest assured that your property is in safe hands. Let us protect your investment with reliable and top-notch roofing solutions. Contact us today for all your roofing needs!
Over the years of being in the construction industry we pride ourselves in effectively carrying complete house renovations ,new kitchens and bathroom installations ,plastering, tilling, plumbing, painting and electrical works, consumer units,complete rewire, inspection and testing,and we Part P Registered under the NICEIC brand.
Sylvester arranged and managed the refitting of my kitchen - plastering, plumbing, cabinets, tiling. Even Replacing joists and floorboards (I had a wood worm problem). We could not be happier with the result and Sylvesters accommodating attitude towards much unexpected/unplanned work all carried out within quoted timeframe. Could not rate him higher! As an electrician he refitted a few of our lights and provided a valid certificate for all work done. Very professional and tidy.
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.
Whether you're in need of a renovation, facing an emergency leak, requiring asbestos removal, or seeking efficient waste management services, we've got all your needs covered. Look no further for comprehensive property solutions at competitive rates. As proud members of the Federation of Master Builders, our skilled and experienced team possesses the necessary expertise to tackle any project. With a robust track record of successfully completing a variety of jobs in both commercial and residential settings, our team is fully equipped to handle projects of any size and complexity. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering optimal results for you. Choose Nu Space for a seamless, reliable, and expert approach to meet your requirements.
Very professional job very pleased with the job.Would highly recommend
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We are a groundwork’s and building company with 20 years experience
Jay and his team connected our garden house to the water supply and sewer network. They worked fast and did a very good job. Our terrace looks better now than before! The quote was honest for the amount of work. I really recommend them.
DX Construction ltd is a building company based in sheffield south yorkshire with Experienced and qualified builders With over 11 years experience in the trade we pride ourselves on perfection & 5 STAR quality. We have the skills, knowledge and creativity to solve your site specific problems. References available. Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service We cover following areas: - Sheffield - Rotherham - Doncaster - Chesterfield - and other surrounding areas SERVICES WE PROVIDE 1 Extension 2 Loft conversions 3 Refurbishments & full house renovation 4 Roofing 5 Chimney removal 6 Landscaping and garden work 7 Carpentry & joinery 8 Kitchen & bathroom fitting 9 Electrical & plumbing Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service
Andrea and his team were excellent. He is very reliable, efficient and hard working. He made a very challenging job look easy and did some extra things for me that weren’t included in the quote, without charging extra. He got back to me quickly and the whole job took less than 2 weeks from me posting to completion. I would definitely recommend this company and I’m sure I will ask him to do other jobs for me.
Quality of work and customer satisfaction are key concepts that we do our utmost to ensure. We carry out the majority of building works ourselves and do not subcontract unless absolutely necessary. Having spent many years in the construction industry, we are experienced builders. We install all types of flooring, including Engineered Oak, LVT, Karndean and laminate flooring. We also install kitchens, fitted bedrooms and just about everything carpentry.
I have been trading for over three years I specialise in garden and landscapes and construction extension porch garage and more please letmy help we’d your projects thank you
Visited the site before quoting, offered a competitive quote and did a fantastic job. Well pleased.
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.
Welcome to Rothwell Contracts & Rothwell Kitchens Ltd Nottinghamshire based family run businesses
Whoops, sorry, about the last comment about rcl builders, that comment was to another builder.
TCL Building and Landscapes, friendly professional service.
Quick response and turn around
BNS CONSTRUCTION LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Professional, Honest and Empathetic. BNS Construction Ltd is a highly professional company that strives to deliver a quality construction service that is professional at all times and understanding towards our customers. We understand that building works can be stressful. The idea of budgets, designs, messy homes and more can be a daunting prospect. But when BNS Construction Ltd handles your building project, we not only respect your home – keeping it clean and tidy to the best of our ability – we ensure that we support you throughout the duration of the build. We offer helpful and insightful advice on maximising every inch of your property based on your individual lifestyle. Our commitment to constant communication enables us to deliver exactly what you want to the highest standard possible, at the price we quote, with no nasty surprises. We ensure that you are never out of the loop and your dedicated site manager will be available on-site every day to discuss the project with you and oversee the transformation of your home to the exceptional standard you expect. Project work we undertake: Loft Conversions Extensions Refurbishments New Builds Basements Commercial We have recently launched a dedicated service for loft conversions, which is backed by BNS Construction Ltd - search for BNS Lofts for more information.
I’ve been plastering for 35 years with vast experience in all aspects of traditional plastering
good workmanship
"From Tidy-Ups to Transformations" - Building and Landscaping that lasts the test of time **One of our teams has just completed the YOTEL Edinburgh design and build project on Queen Street which you can go to observe for yourself. To be trusted by large commercial corporations and deliver a high standard of work in a time sensitive manner, we will surely be able to deliver a project you will be satisfied with! With over 30 years of landscaping and building experience enjoyed throughout the company, you no longer have to compromise quality. Be the envy of your neighbours and call the reputable company to get it done right the first time. We offer a full design and build landscaping function as well as a subscription service on fortnightly (or monthly) garden tidy maintenance as well. Not only can we transform your space, but keep it looking new year round! With highly skilled staff and constant support a text away, we are here to make your service experience as pleasureable as your new extension, patio, driveway, or fence is going to look.
Arrived promptly to view job.
Business established since 2008
A great company to deal with, prompt, reliable and very professional. We live in an old Victorian house with hardly a straight angle anywhere. So Anunas had a tricky job to do. The job was done perfectly and to agreed cost. I would recommend this builder to you. If I could could give give 6 stars I would. Great job well done.
30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LONDON LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
At Environmental services London ltd we provide services such as Damp proofing, internal renovations, Roofing and building, UPVC double glazing/cladding and general home improvements
Eurocenter - Online Ltd
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
We are one of the best building and renovation company in London since 2011. Our experience taken over many years and different architects helping us to provide a service meeting the highest quality standards in every detail, making our homes and city beautiful...
NORTH WEST LONDON RENOVATIONS is a well established, trustworthy, reliable and professional company. We serve Acton, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kilburn, Paddington, Brent, Westminster, Hampstead, West Hampstead, Primrose Hill and all surrounding areas of N, NW and Greater London. Our service is professional, caring, and high quality. Our customers rate us highly for our ability to stick to deadlines, and for the quality of our workmanship. We provide a professional service from the initial free quotation to the end professional finish. Our service is friendly, clean and tidy, and reliable. We consider no job as too large or too small and offer very competitive prices
Had scaffolding up very quickly. Started job on time and finished in a week. Very impressive. Good communications and reasonable price.
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