Choosing the Best Foundation for Soil Types

There are various factors that need to be considered before getting started to take the best approach for the conditions surrounding the site, ensuring the building foundations are able to withstand the weight of the property for years to come.

Establishing the soil type

Before going any further, knowing what type of soil surrounds the property will form the basis of the decision. Being a significant factor in the types of foundation needed, ensure any construction companies in London you work with are taking this into consideration.

• Rocky soil

The foundation for soil types that includes a high level of gravel, sand or chalk content needs to consider that the ground is more prone to movement and running water, implementing an effective drainage system.

• Firm clay soil

A significant length is required to withstand the force of the clay heave, reducing any friction or uplift to withstand any environmental factors which could affect the soil. If there are any large trees in the vicinity, the depth of the roots may also require a change in the type of foundation needed.

• Soft clay soil

The foundation for soil types that contain soft clay should use wide footing to bear the weight of the property during all conditions. With a reinforced base, ensuring the right foundations are chosen will prevent any movement occurring.

• Peat soil

When the soil is made up of moist plant material from surrounding vegetation, the damp conditions require a reinforced foundation to replace the top layer of ground to create a sufficient base.

Choosing the best foundations

Once the soil type is established, adapting the approach to suit this will reduce the risk of any damage off the back of erosion or harsh weather conditions. Working with untrustworthy companies who do not consider their surroundings or implement an unusually cheap solution can lead to problems down the line that will require a large level of professional work to resolve.

Here at 4SP Group, we liaise directly with environmental consultants to get a thorough expert understanding of the soil and moisture levels on the site before we make educated recommendations to provide you with a long lasting solution suited to your site. Whether ground beams will be enough to support the walls during the construction stage or pile caps are needed to create more stable foundations across the entirety of the building, we will only carry out methods which can provide you with a lasting solution.

If you are looking for the best foundation for soil types on your site, please do not hesitate to get in touch today. We will get to know the details of your project in order to be able to provide you with a no obligation quote so you can get a clearer idea of the scale of the job at hand, taking you one step closer to the results you hope for.