Footing & Foundations
Ensuring stability and longevity for your structures.
Foundations, or footings as they are often known, are the critical base upon which any building or structure stands. At Currell Groundworks, we understand the importance of solid foundations. We provide a range of footing services, from domestic extensions to commercial new builds, ensuring every project is built on a stable and reliable base.
Types of Footings We Provide
Strip Footings
Strip footings are commonly used for walls, providing a continuous concrete strip along the length of the wall. This type of footing is ideal for distributing the wall’s load evenly, preventing settlement and ensuring stability.
Pad Footings
Pad footings are designed to support individual columns or posts. These square or rectangular concrete pads are essential for structures with concentrated loads, providing a stable base for each support point.
Raft Footings
Raft footings involve a large concrete slab that covers the entire footprint of the building. This type of footing is most commonly used for cabins, office pods, sheds, garages, and garden rooms, providing a uniform base that distributes the load evenly across the ground.
Trench Fill Footings
Trench fill footings involve filling the excavated trench entirely with concrete. This method is
often used in areas with good ground conditions, providing a robust and efficient foundation.
Concrete Strength and Quality
The strength of the concrete used in footings is crucial for the structure’s integrity. We specify
concrete strength in terms of its compressive strength, such as C25 or C30. For footings, a
minimum concrete strength of C25 is generally recommended in the UK. The required strength
depends on various factors, including the load, ground conditions, and environmental exposure.
Reinforced concrete is often used to add extra strength to footings, ensuring they can withstand
anticipated loads. It is vital to ensure that the concrete used complies with BS 8500 standards,
guaranteeing quality and reliability.
Regulations and Compliance
All footing work must comply with relevant Building Regulations to ensure safety and stability.
These regulations mandate that footings are designed and constructed to withstand anticipated
loads and ground conditions. BS 8004 provides comprehensive guidance on foundation design and
construction. We work closely with local building control, ensuring that all necessary notifications
are made and inspections are carried out. Our experienced team ensures that every footing project
meets or exceeds regulatory requirements.
Ground Conditions and Considerations
Understanding ground conditions is essential for proper footing design and construction. We consider
various factors, including soil type, water table, and made ground. Clay, sand, gravel, and rock all
present unique challenges. High water tables can affect curing and stability, while made or filled
ground may require specialised solutions. We conduct thorough site assessments to determine the
suitability of the ground and recommend appropriate footing designs.
Soil Type
Different soil types have varying load-bearing capacities. Clay is prone to shrinkage and swelling,
which can affect stability, while sand and gravel offer good drainage and strength. Rock provides
excellent bearing capacity but may require specialist excavation.
Water Table
The water table level must be considered, as high water tables can weaken the ground and affect
footing stability. Groundwater can also interfere with concrete curing, requiring additional measures
to ensure proper setting and long-term performance.
Made Ground
Made ground, or filled ground, can be unstable and often needs specialised foundation designs. We
carefully assess these conditions to ensure your footing remains solid and reliable.
Extension Footings: Expanding Your Living Space
A significant portion of our footing work involves extensions for domestic properties. We understand
that homeowners looking to expand their living space and increase property value need reliable and
robust foundations. Our process involves working from architect’s drawings, excavating trenches, and
addressing any affected drainage. Once the trench is inspected and approved by local building control,
we pour the concrete, ensuring a level and stable base for your new extension.
Why Choose Currell Groundworks?
At Currell Groundworks, we bring expertise, reliability, and attention to detail to every footing
project. We understand the importance of a solid foundation and are committed to delivering
high-quality workmanship that meets your specific needs. If you are planning an extension or any
construction project requiring footings, please contact us for expert advice and a free consultation.
