Frequently Asked Questions

Piling is a deep foundation construction technique that uses long, slender columns (piles) made of either concrete or steel which are driven or drilled deep into the ground to create a strong, stable foundation.

Piles support the load of a structure by transferring them through weak, shallow soil to deeper, stronger and more stable soils or rock, preventing settlement and ensuring the structure's stability.

Piles can also be used as a retaining structure in either a permanent or temporary condition for basements, retaining walls, bank stabilization etc.

Piling types are broadly categorized by their installation technique (Augured or Cast-in-Situ, CFA, Driven, Screw or Helical) and/or by material (Reinforced Concrete, Steel), working as either End-Bearing (transferring load to hard strata) or Friction Piles (using soil friction), or a combination of both, to support structures in poor ground conditions.

Piled foundations are used in construction to create deep foundations, transferring structural loads to stronger, deeper soil or rock layers, providing stability for buildings, bridges, and other structures where ground conditions are poor, unstable, or high-water table.

They are essentially long columns (made of reinforced concrete or steel) driven or bored into the ground to prevent excessive settlement, movement, and ensure the long-term stability of the structure.

Piles can be used for forming new foundations for structures or for underpinning them. They can be linked by either reinforced concrete ground beams, pilecaps or raft slabs, from which the new structure can be built or re-supported.

Anti heave precautions can also be implemented in plastic soils where there is a risk that movement could also occur through heave of the soil. This can take the form of either Cellcore which is castellated polystyrene or Clayboard which is castellated cardboard both with a rigid topping. Piles can also be sleeved to reduce heave forces acting on the pile itself or the pile reinforcement can be designed for full tension.

The cost of a pile can vary depending upon the ground conditions, access restrictions and load carrying capacity required.

Key Factors Influencing Cost

Piling Method: Mini, bored, driven, and screw piles have different base costs.

Depth & Reinforcement: Deeper piles or more reinforcement significantly increase costs.

Site Access: Difficult access (tight spaces, remote locations) requires specialized equipment and adds cost.

Ground Conditions: Poor or complex soil may require more extensive or deeper piles.

Mobilisation: Bringing machinery to the site adds to the overall bill, especially for smaller jobs.

Additional Costs: Don't forget geotechnical surveys, design, excavation, and pile testing.

Please contact U & M Piling for your free quotation and advice.

Standard piling plant typically requires significant access and space for the rig, supporting equipment, and material delivery. However, in situations with limited access or low headroom, specialist mini piling equipment is specifically designed for use in confined areas, such as inside existing buildings or narrow access routes. Screw or grundomat piling equipment is generally handheld and can be used in extremely difficult areas of access.