The main challenge in this job has been the complexity of the design of the ground beams almost looking like something from one of a Leonardo Da Vinci’s sketches.
Major Groundworks project consisting of 600m2 floor space in Slough Berkshire, to construct a four-storey residential building.
The main challenge in this job has been the complexity of the design of the ground beams almost looking like something from one of a Leonardo Da Vinci’s sketches.
This resulted in having to implement a complex panel formwork system, which took longer than anticipated to implement and also meant closer cost monitoring.
The second main challenge was that the structural engineer had designed the ground floor as a block beam floor, which the main contractor had installed so as to enable him to start the main brick and blockwork. This however resulted in having to work out and answer the question if the block and beam floor could hold the propping for the first-floor shuttering to support the 25 tonnes plus of reinforcement and the concrete over an area of 130 square metres.
We approached various formwork temporary work companies to help address this problem and the replies we received were mixed with some suggesting very costly and complex solutions. However, after working closely with our own temporary works engineer’s and Mabey Hire engineer’s we came up with a solution that allowed us to prop off the block and beam floor without the need for additional floor spreader plates and beams. The system we eventually used was their KwikStage propping system. Mabey Hire provided a complete design of the system and also, they provide our operatives onsite training with one of their engineers to ensure that we assembled the kit and placed it correctly.
Once this was done, we successfully completed the shuttering that allowed for the steel fixers to complete the reinforcement work.
The scope of our works was to design the foundations of the building, the reinforced concrete ground beams and the construction of the concrete frame and the floors of the building.
Obtaining information from the geotechnical ground survey report and the structural engineer’s loading calculations we designed a foundation solution that involved continuous flight auger piling to a depth of twenty metres. The diameter of the reinforced piles was 450mm.
The party wall agreement specified that the foundation work next to the neighbouring existing building be done using a reinforced concrete cantilever beam.
The design was unusual in the respect that the first-floor reinforcement was in excess of twenty-five tonnes, which needed to be propped and then concreted.
The KwikStage propping as supplied and assisted by Mabey Hire worked exactly as they specified. The work was completed successfully with the first-floor concrete floor concrete poured containing the steel reinforcement.
The job has proceeded to the remaining floor with the brick and work block work commencing on the first floor, once this is complete the propping process with continue to construct the second and the third floors.
This job provided us with a major learning point, that no two answers are the same. We are very fortunate to have a team of people that support us well and give us the right information to enable us to do our work safe and successfully.
TESTIMONIALS
"We hired CSMANLTD to design and build a basement under our family home, and the entire process was seamless. Their team took care of everything—from underpinning and excavation to drainage and structural integrity—offering expert advice at every stage. The project was completed on time and within budget. We now have a stunning living space that has transformed our home. Highly recommend their design and build service!"
construction worker
"CSMANLTD has become our go-to partner for pre-construction groundwork and basement development. Their in-house engineering team provides invaluable insight during the early stages, allowing us to begin on-site work while final designs are being approved. Their ability to handle piling, deep excavations, and below-ground utilities has saved us significant time and cost across multiple projects. A truly unique and reliable approach to construction."
construction worker
"We collaborated with CSMANLTD on a mixed-use development requiring complex temporary works and deep foundation solutions. Their expertise in structural engineering and piling was evident from day one. They delivered a robust, cost-effective design-build solution that kept the project on track. Safety was a top priority on site, and their team operated with professionalism throughout. A standout contractor in the industry."
construction worker
"As architects, we value contractors who understand both design intent and structural feasibility. CSMANLTD bridges that gap perfectly. Their in-house engineers work closely with our team to optimise structural frames, foundations, and basement construction—often suggesting innovative, cost-saving alternatives without compromising safety. They are a true extension of our professional team."
construction worker
"Our Victorian house had foundation issues and limited space. CSMANLTD assessed the structure, recommended underpinning, and constructed a full basement beneath our garden—maximising space without affecting the main house. The work was clean, safe, and incredibly well-managed. Now we have a gym, cinema room, and extra bedroom. We couldn’t be happier with the result."
construction worker