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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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www.kbaconstruction.online MAKE YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME TODAY WITH KBA CONSTRUCTION'S We are a building company with many years combined experience. working as Builder in London (UK), we help to make your house a home or property investment you can rely on.
Did a fantastic job and at good price
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.
We are a small development company moving into property maintenance to keep our trusted tradesman busy. We can provide trusted, qualified and experienced tradesman to carry out the work required and are contactable 24 hours a day.
Most aspects of building work undertaken, Approx. 40 years of building experience.
Did not give me a quote. The job was too major for him.
Kem is reliable, precise and clean when he works. We will definitely use his business again.
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
Home Improvement Specialist, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Shower rooms, Extensions, Conversions...etc.etc.. FREE Quotations
Awful.
I am based out of Gloucester, but willing to travel to surrounding cities. I am extremely confident in my skill set. When it comes this trade, nothing beats the experience I have.
Glyn came round very quickly and did a cracking job in my soffit this was very rotten and degraded. Punctual and completed the job as described would recommend
I have 20 years experience in groundworks & general property repairs & maintenance honest & reliable no job too small fully insured all work finished to a high standard
Quick and neat work . Would recommend
Its quality time! With over 10 years experience, tens of finished jobs and tens of happy clients, I am a landscaper who can manage any job. Big or small, easy or complicated is never a problem for me. For any details don't hesitate to contact me.
Work that took place was amazing and recommend IA trader to anyone that needs work done.
I’ve been plastering for 35 years with vast experience in all aspects of traditional plastering
good workmanship
Langside Building ltd are a small family based Building company, offering a full range of buiding services. We pride ourselves in customer satisfaction and aim to please. From small maintenance jobs to kitchens bathrooms and full refurbishment Of interior and exteriors we pride ourselves on leaving quality work and outstanding customer service.We like to think once we have undertaken works for any customer we would have your business for as long as you need us. there is a full list of trades we cover on our rated peoples site and many reviews and references ,please don't hesitate to check our work references on the rated people site. We look forward to hearing from you Regards Thomas Sidey We cover ALL aspects of building, conversions and maintenance
Thank you for looking to consider volt developments and construction, here we pride ourselves on good hard work and quality craftsmanship. we like to put extra time in to bringing you the best quality work on your project weather it might be a big brick wall with foundations, a little driveway refurb or a restoration project ! Our years of experience paints a whole new picture for the up and coming young tradesmen. Having been trained by some of the best in the business we each bring our acquired skills to the table to give you a quick and nice clean turn around on whatever your project may be ! Here at volt, we specialise in Brickwork, Stonework, landscaping, groundworks & driveways and a-lot more (please don’t hesitate to ask! ) we also work along side some other good trades including roofers, plasters & gas engineers meaning we have alot of knowledge under our belts and a good network of connection’s within the construction industry. we were pushed to our limits in area’s of special brickwork including arches, ponds, twisted pillars & serpentines all of witch are very intricate and very desirable and make us stand out from the rest ! we are fully insured for all of our work and always work closely with any customer concerning budgets and budgeting techniques to make the process a whole lot easier for each party, we aim to make it as less stressful for the homeowner as I personally have dealt with a few who are abit unsure to start off but are overwhelmed with the outcomes and customer satisfaction ! Testimonials will all be on our page for everyone to see. Thank you for your time to consider us and we hope we can work along side anyone and everyone to get their dreams fulfilled
Spot on from start to finish. Understood the assignment and details of the job and executed perfectly. Ensured everything was done to detail. Would definitely recommend and use again. Many thanks Phil.
Roman home improvements is a company who pride them selves on high quality workmanship at affordable prices. We have over 20 years experience and cover all aspects of construction. We are here to not only build for your needs but with our experience and knowledge to help design for your needs.
Prompt response and quote. Options fully explored and explained. Work starts soon.
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 .
CRM Unlimited Test 2
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Neil Chamberlain Property Services
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Neil Chamberlain Neil has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, where he has gained a comprehensive level of knowledge and a thorough and in-depth understanding of most trades and skills. Neil commenced his career in construction as a sub-contractor building loft conversions, primarily in West London, and was awarded by The Federation of Master Builders for an exceptional conversion in Wimbledon. Neils recognised high standard of work has secured many diverse construction projects, including the substantial renovation of Period Houses, including listed buildings, single and double storey extensions, detached new build projects, an award winning Chelsea landscaping and garden design, as well as commercial buildings. Neil has worked as part of a team, as a main contractor and has also project managed all elements required in completing building projects large and small successfully. Property Service, (NPS) is a family owned and run business, bringing an extensive level of ability to benefit our clients projects. Whether you require property maintenance or are planning something more substantial our team will assess your requirements and put in place a tailored package for you, from an appropriately detailed quotation on smaller projects, to an all encompassing design and build service, including - planning, building control and a detailed costed schedule of works, we have the experience and background to meet your requirements.
We are a building company that have been in operation for over 25 years We are mostly architect or customer recommendations based We can organise a local architect to produce your plans or price plans you already have We are a little old school where we will give you a competitive estimate and then show you the works we are doing also a job we have finished recently
P & L have just completed today(9/10/24) our bathroom makeover & we are absolutely delighted with the work done. This was to remove existing floor tiles , prepare for new ones & fit & grout replacements. Then to fit a toilet bowl plus seat. All done in budget and to the timescale promised. They may well be equalled but never beaten. Thank you Peter & Adam you did a fantastic job. Regards Jenny & Jim
ITALIAN JOB SERVICES LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
**Italian Job Services LTD - Company Description** **Overview:** Founded in 2021, Italian Job Services LTD is a premier construction company dedicated to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and innovative solutions in the building sector. Based in Crawley,our team is committed to transforming vision into reality while ensuring that every project reflects our core values of excellence, reliability, and integrity. **Mission:** At Italian Job Services LTD, our mission is to provide exceptional construction services that not only meet but exceed our clients' expectations. We strive to build lasting relationships with our clients by understanding their unique needs and delivering tailored solutions that enhance their living and working environments. **Services Offered:** We specialize in a wide range of construction services, including: - **Residential Construction:** Custom homes, renovations, and extensions that embody the beauty and elegance of Italian architecture. - **Commercial Construction:** Comprehensive solutions for office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial projects, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal. - **Renovation & Remodeling:** Expert craftsmanship in transforming existing spaces to enhance usability and style while preserving historical significance. - **Project Management:** A holistic approach to managing every aspect of the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. - **Sustainable Building Practices:** Commitment to eco-friendly construction methods and materials, promoting sustainability in every project we undertake. **Why Choose Us?** - **Expert Team:** Our skilled workforce includes experienced architects, engineers, and craftsmen who share a passion for quality and innovation. - **Quality Assurance:** We adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring that every project is executed with precision and attention to detail. - **Customer-Centric Approach:** We prioritize open communication, collaboration, and transparency, making the client's vision central to our work. - **Local Expertise:** With a deep understanding of regional architectural styles and building regulations, we are well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of Italian construction. **Vision:** Our vision is to be a leader in the construction industry, renowned for our dedication to quality, customer satisfaction, and innovative building practices. We aim to spearhead projects that not only meet contempor
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