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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?
As a building We strive to make customers happy ur work speaks for itself we trie to offer all our clients the best advice and services all or callout are absolutely free advice and we do not charge for inspections this is just another way to give ? people peace of mind To choose GJ building solutions?
James and Andy provided excellent advice and did a great job. The job revealed some extra work was needed but the changes were all discussed and agreed without pressure before being implemented and James was able to bring in extra team members whilst on site so the work was completed in a timely fashion. All of the team were personable and a pleasure to have on site.
INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
WELCOME INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION - Building your future, one brick at a time. We have completed numerous projects, from small renovations to large commercial constructions. Our portfolio includes residential and commercial buildings, educational and healthcare facilities, and industrial constructions. Our mission at INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION Ltd is to provide our clients with exceptional construction services that exceed their expectations. We are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, on-time completion, and cost-effective solutions. What sets us apart is not just our ability to construct buildings but our commitment to building relationships. We believe in honesty, integrity, and transparency in all our dealings with our clients. We value teamwork, professionalism, and continuous learning and improvement. We prioritize transparent communication, ensuring that our clients are informed and involved at every step.
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.
FINISHERS. You're complete building & decorating solutions. Established 1995 , finishers is a family ran business in the centre of Cambridge we guarantee any work undertaken will be completed to the highest standards. For a free quote contact FINISHERS
my potting shed was reglazed and the rotten wood replaced arrived on time to give an estimate Work completed to a high standard prompt reliable Michael was open honest and the work done was value for money
Explore the comprehensive services offered by CDL Building & Carpentry Ltd in the Swansea and south wales areas, we cover all aspects of building and carpentry jobs including comercial and domestic. Some of the job we do are: Extensions Conservatories Loft conversions Kitchens Bathrooms Tiling Garden walls Windows & doors Roofs Repointing Fascias Guttering Flooring Patios Driveways Paving Decking & fencing Plastering All interior carpentry Lime rendering Lime pointing Sand/shoot blasting Fiberglass roofing Fencing New build home / self builds Damp Proofing Complete office refurbishments Complete shop fitting Insurance repair work CDL Building & Carpentry Ltd delivers excellence in every project. Contact us to turn your vision into reality with our professional and reliable services.
Craig and his team (Carne, Jason and the carpenters) were excellent. They were friendly, hard-working and tidy. They coped with unforeseen issues very competently. The communication between trades and with ourselves was very good. We have no hesitation in recommending them and will use them again.
Quebuild London Ltd offers a full building service with every aspect of works covered no matter the scale or scope of works to both residential and commercial buildings.We also provide proactive and reactive maintenance packages with 24/7 one hour service for emergency call outs.We pride ourselves on using only highly skilled and courteous tradesmen with all trades in house so as a company we have full control of our projects. From your initial meeting with one of our knowledgeable estimators who provide fixed price detailed estimates to completion of works overseen by amazing management our clients needs are paramount,this ensures a streamlined service with quality controlled finishes beyond the industry standard. We have full public liability insurance with all risk assessments and method statements in place at all times no matter the size of works for peace of mind for us as a company but more importantly you as our client.
John at Quebuild went above and beyond for us on this job. He completed all the work in a timely manner and for a very reasonable price. He was super knowledgeable and extremely attentive to detail, making sure to leave a high quality finish in terms of decoration - and he came back afterwards to address a few small things that needed doing. He was also a pleasure to have around - and I would highly recommend him for any other work. 10/10.
We are proud to be a top rated, reliable and well respected company with a fantastic team of experts providing outstanding levels of service when it comes to plumbing painting tiling bathroom and kitchen fitting and full house renovations in London and surrounding areas. We carry out all types of work, no matter the size - from small plumbing maintenance jobs such as leaking taps or burst pipes and other domestic work, right up to large installations such as Full house renovation. All of our work is fully guaranteed and we offer professional and efficient Handyman services near you at a competitive cost. Our aim is total customer satisfaction. Not only do we retain our client's custom over many years, they also become our ambassadors recommending us to their relatives, friends, neighbours and business associates.
Shout out to my brother from another mother. Pleasure having Nik and his boys Ray, Rod and John working on this project. Sometimes in life you have to take a leap of faith and Nik has 100% restored that faith with extreme commitment and professionalism on top of a beautiful finish.
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18+ years of experience. Providing services, ranging from electricity, plumbing, home extension and more. With fully trained and experienced workers, ensuring quality everytime.
The entrance door to my flat needed to be adjusted to meet fire regulations. I was really pleased with the result. Mani is a skilled man who worked with care and attention to detail. He made sure that the finish was good and thoroughly cleared up afterwards. He was also courteous and clearly explained what he was doing.
We are specialised in Kitchen, bathrooms and all type of furniture instalation. We are team of handyman, plumer, electrician and carpenter.
Excellent Kitchen Tiling! Peter did an amazing job! Professional, friendly, and efficient, he completed the work quickly. The pricing was fair, and he kept everything clean throughout. Highly recommend for quality tiling!
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...
G Greaves carpentry and building services of the complete package from new builds to residential cleaning,we cater for all our clients needs across London and Essex. Carpentry specialists. 17 years experience Fully qualified and certified operatives. All building and maintenance works undertaken. Fully insured. Guaranteed work.
George did an excellent job repairing the flashing on my porch roof and waterproofing my gutter. He was precise on exactly what work he was going to do, he gave me a reasonable price and he is always polite and clear in his communications. I would have no hesitation in recommending George for roofing work.
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.
started business as parternership in 2007, we grown our portfolio from 2 houses to 86 units today, we also helped over 100 homeowners and 25 landlords including housing association, we help from a full consultancy package to build yur dreams to even help with leasing to our corporate contacts if you wish to invest. featured on HOMES UNDER THE HAMMER, we pride our selves in job well done, we always make sure we start projects within 2 to 3 weeks from time we agree and we always deliver our projects on time; we make the impossible a luxury and affordable possible while we take all the stress away; BGH combines technical expertise with exceptional customer service, ensuring every client benefits from cutting-edge technologies tailored to their home needs. with industry leading certifications and proven track record, BGH is a top choice for those seeking efficient, reliable and successful renovations We ate fully accredited Offer full guarantees and insurances including insurance backed guarantee and deposit guarantee We are specialist in new build, extensions, heavy refurbs, hmo and luxury conversions
H&R Renovations LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
H&R Renovations ltd always aims to deliver a high standards of work qualities to satisfy all my clients expectations and meet theirs satification.
Dear Customer, We are a construction company with over 25 years experience. We undertake all aspects of building work, including new builds, extensions, lofts, total renovations, new bathroom and kitchens. All work guaranteed and certified for, GasSafe and NiCEiC approved on completion.
Great job good price
UWB are a small family run business with over 30 years of experience in the building & window & conservatory industry, our services include extentions & new build plus all aspects of alteration work with all associated trades included. Planing, drawings & Building Regs plus steel calcs are all covered by our team to take the pressure of our customers. Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Orangeries WarmRoofs included & are all covered by building control.
Excellent service, very professional, highly recommend
LITA CONTRACTORS LTD We are a family owned construction company with over 10 years of successful commercial and residential building projects. Based in London, we help clients with all kinds of construction needs, with existing plans or brand-new designs and solutions. Some of our services include: - Ground work - Drainage - Basements - First Fix & Second Fix - Kitchen & Bathroom Fit Out - RC Frame & Steel Frame We are specialised in delivering reliable and best quality services that will last a generation.
Free quotes. Free Advice. Public Liability Insurance. Clean & Tidy Worker. Over 25yrs Experience in the building trade. We are a friendly family run business. We cover All roofing work undertaken, repairs to complete Re-Roof. Flat Roof. Chimney repairs. Fascia. Soffits. Guttering. Pointing. Also Landscaping. Patios. Blockpaving. Driveways. Fencing. External & Internal Painting. Brickwork. Extensions. Small jobs are welcome.
A really good job. Very happy with the finished product. Waiting on a quote for something else now.
Bristol House Extensions is a family owned business. Our workforce is fully qualified and experienced at working in domestic and commercial properties and carries out work for our customer, customer satisfaction is our main priority.
Really helpful people to deal with.
Hi, My Name is Joseph Oris My trade services encompass a wide range of skilled trades, includes: - *Handyman Services*: General repairs, maintenance, and assembly tasks. - *Plumbing Services*: Plumbing installations, repairs, and maintenance. - *Carpentry Services*: Woodwork, cabinetry, and furniture making. - *Home Renovations*: Bathroom and kitchen renovations, extensions, and more. *Benefits* - *Quality Workmanship* I guarantee high-quality work. - *Competitive Pricing*: I offer fair and competitive prices. *How I Work* - *Book a Service*: Schedule a service online or by phone. - *Assessment*: I usally pop over to see and assess the job before providing a quote. - *Work Completion*: I complete work ontime to to a high standard. *Why Choose Me? - *Experienced Tradesperson*: Im is skilled with 25 years of experience - *Customer-Centric Approach*: I prioritize customer satisfaction. - *Flexible Scheduling*: I accommodate your schedule. Thank You
Joseph carried out a bathroom refresh for me which I’m very happy with. His work was of good quality, he was communicative and gave advice on what might work well as we went through. I went on holiday for most of it and Joseph was trustworthy with my keys. Reasonably priced. He was also a good lad to have a chat with, nice manner and cool to be around! Cheers, James
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