Pile Foundations in Sussex | Better Build Stability with Bored and Mini Piling
Building stability is of utmost importance when embarking on a construction project. Whether our piling contractors are working on a specification for a new residential build, commercial premises or a building with multiple storeys, a solid foundation is essential for ensuring a strong start. A foundation acts as the backbone of the structure and is designed to withstand the test of time, resist soil movement and cope perfectly well with moisture fluctuations.
At Horner Foundations, we dedicate ourselves to the delivery of high-end services. We specialise in pile foundations and raft foundations, and in RC ground beams and basement construction for the Sussex area.
Our expertise in bored piling, mini piling and underpinning ensures that your construction project achieves the highest level of structural quality.
Let's look at the reasons why structural stability plays such a crucial role.
Why Stability Matters
The longevity of a building is heavily influenced by its foundation, especially in residential and commercial construction. A poorly placed or non-existent foundation will eventually lead to subsidence because the weight load isn't adequately supported. Trade techniques such as bored piling, mini piling and underpinning reinforce the building's weight by anchoring it to the stronger soil deep within the earth. This allows the softer surface soil to handle moisture changes without compromising the structure's overall stability.
While pile foundations are bored or driven into the ground, raft foundations and RC ground beams form a base for construction as concrete slabs.
Types of Foundations
One widely used foundation material is concrete, which is well known for its versatility. Concrete is poured into wooden frames to form the foundation's shape and once cured, the frames are removed. The choice of concrete mix depends on factors such as the foundation's strength requirements and the available budget. Some projects in Sussex will require our piling contractors to add steel reinforcement into the formwork before pouring the concrete.
It is important to note that not all foundations are made of concrete, and that construction methods vary depending on purpose and location.
Deep Foundations vs Shallow Foundations
Foundations are generally classified into two main types, called shallow and deep foundations. Each category can be further subdivided into their own subcategories, so let's explore the two main types in more detail below:
Shallow Foundations
With depths which range from one to three metres, shallow foundations don’t need to extend far into the earth to distribute loads. Due to limited depths, they are cost-effective and require less labour and resources for installation.
Deep Foundations
As the name suggests, deep foundations are excavated much deeper into the ground to reach the stable subsoil beneath the weaker topsoil. These are often chosen for taller structures in Sussex areas with unstable ground.
The Resulting Quality
Quality in construction is influenced by numerous factors including design, aesthetics and the construction process itself. However, the foundation's quality is always paramount. For optimal results, it is important to have a qualified and experienced piling contractor like Horner Foundations at your side. Our team specialises in pile foundations and raft foundations for both domestic and commercial builds, and for basement construction work.
The ground beneath our feet is constantly changing and a poorly designed or non-existent foundation can significantly reduce a building's lifespan.
Bored piling, mini piling and underpinning techniques transfer the structure's weight to the stronger soil deep within the earth, while the surface soil can adapt to moisture changes without jeopardising the structure's stability.
As experts in pile foundations, raft foundations and RC ground beams, Horner Foundations guides you towards the best steps for achieving construction goals. Contact us today to secure a stable foundation for your next building project in Sussex. With our expertise, your structure will stand the test of time.