Site development, groundworks & drainage.

05

Foundations

Foundations are often an expensive pitfall for the unwary but with sufficient investigation of the site beforehand, there should be no need for cost escalations due to "difficult ground conditions".

The most basic form of investigation is the "trial pit" survey. Click here to download our guidance notes.

There are many types of structural solutions available, and the selection and design of the appropriate one depends on the collection of the right data, expertise and a bit of local knowledge and experience.

The Guide to Foundations in Fenland

Fenland Foundations:

In the Fenland region, soft peat and weak clay soils are a characteristic feature, and we specialise in dealing with these. The Guide to Foundations in Fenland is a useful summary, available to download for free. In most parts of our area, clay soils in the presence of trees can be susceptible to subsidence or heave, due to shrinkage or swelling caused by changes in the moisture content of the soil. The forces generated can be enough to lift up a building by 150mm (6") or more!

Modern design usually follows the codes of practice defined in the NHBC Standards, based on research at the Buildings Research Establishment and a long history of insurance cases.

We aim to satisfy these requirements for your project, to ensure a long and trouble-free life for the building at the most economic overall cost.

For existing buildings, where subsidence damage is suspected, we can undertake investigation and monitoring, and present a report and proposals for repairs as necessary, perhaps as required for an insurance claim.