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August 5, 2024

CSMANLTD Underpinning and Basement Construction London

CSMANLTD expertise in underpinning and basement construction London has enabled us to successfully complete a wide range of challenging projects across London. Our case studies demonstrate our ability to deliver complex, high-quality solutions that enhance the stability, functionality, and value of properties. Below are some of our standout projects in underpinning and basement construction, highlighting our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction.

Residential Basement Extension in Fulham

Project Overview: A homeowner in Fulham wanted to extend their living space by adding a basement level to their Victorian terraced house. The project required careful planning and execution to ensure the stability of the existing structure while maximizing the new space’s utility and aesthetics.

Challenges:

  • Working within the tight confines of an existing structure.
  • Ensuring the stability of the neighboring properties during excavation and construction.
  • Integrating modern amenities and design elements in a historically significant building.

Solutions:

  • Precision Underpinning: Our team used a phased underpinning approach to stabilize the existing foundation before beginning the excavation. This method ensured the safety and stability of the structure throughout the project.
  • Advanced Excavation Techniques: Utilizing state-of-the-art machinery and careful planning, we minimized disruption and efficiently excavated the new basement space.
  • Customized Design: Collaborating with the homeowner, we designed a basement that included a home theater, gym, and additional living areas, blending modern design with the home’s historical character.

Outcome: The project was completed on time and within budget, resulting in a beautifully integrated basement extension that significantly enhanced the living space and value of the property. The homeowner was delighted with the transformation, praising the seamless integration and high-quality finish.

Commercial Basement Construction in Soho

Project Overview: A commercial property in Soho required additional space for a new restaurant and bar. The client wanted to construct a basement level that would house the kitchen, storage, and additional seating, all while maintaining the building’s structural integrity and minimizing disruption to the busy area.

Challenges:

  • Excavating and constructing a basement in a densely populated, high-traffic urban area.
  • Ensuring minimal disruption to neighboring businesses and pedestrians.
  • Meeting stringent health and safety regulations for a commercial kitchen and public space.

Solutions:

  • Innovative Underpinning: We employed advanced underpinning techniques to support the existing structure while excavating the new basement. This ensured the building’s stability and minimized risk.
  • Efficient Project Management: Careful planning and scheduling allowed us to work efficiently, coordinating with local authorities and stakeholders to minimize disruption and maintain safety.
  • Compliance and Quality: Our team ensured that all aspects of the basement construction met health and safety standards, providing a safe and functional space for the new restaurant and bar.

Outcome: The new basement was successfully integrated into the commercial property, providing the client with a spacious, functional area for their restaurant and bar. The project was completed with minimal disruption to the surrounding area, and the new establishment quickly became a popular spot in Soho.

Underpinning and Basement Conversion in Hampstead

Project Overview: A family home in Hampstead required underpinning and a basement conversion to create additional living space and address foundation issues. The project involved stabilizing the existing structure and converting the damp, unused basement into a habitable area.

Challenges:

  • Addressing existing foundation issues and ensuring long-term stability.
  • Waterproofing the basement to create a dry, comfortable living space.
  • Maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of the property.

Solutions:

  • Comprehensive Underpinning: Our team conducted a thorough assessment of the foundation issues and used advanced underpinning techniques to stabilize and strengthen the structure.
  • Effective Waterproofing: We implemented a comprehensive waterproofing system, including tanking and drainage, to ensure the new basement space was dry and habitable.
  • Quality Finishes: The basement conversion included the creation of a new living room, bedroom, and bathroom, all finished to a high standard to match the rest of the home.

Outcome: The underpinning and basement conversion project was a success, providing the family with additional, high-quality living space and ensuring the long-term stability of their home. The new basement area is dry, comfortable, and seamlessly integrated with the rest of the property.

Large-Scale Underpinning Project in Kensington

Project Overview: A large, multi-story building in Kensington required significant underpinning work to address subsidence issues and ensure the structure’s stability. The project involved extensive planning and execution to stabilize the foundation and prevent further movement.

Challenges:

  • Addressing severe subsidence and ensuring the building’s stability.
  • Coordinating a large-scale project in a densely populated urban area.
  • Minimizing disruption to residents and nearby properties.

Solutions:

  • Detailed Assessment and Planning: Our engineers conducted a thorough assessment of the subsidence issues and developed a comprehensive underpinning plan tailored to the building’s specific needs.
  • Phased Underpinning Approach: We used a phased approach to underpin the foundation, working systematically to stabilize the structure while minimizing disruption.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Throughout the project, we monitored the building for any signs of movement, ensuring that the underpinning work was effective and the structure remained stable.

Outcome: The large-scale underpinning project was completed successfully, stabilizing the building and preventing further subsidence. The project was managed efficiently, with minimal disruption to residents and neighboring properties. The building is now secure, with a stable foundation that ensures its longevity.

Conclusion

CSMANLTD’s expertise in underpinning and basement construction has enabled us to deliver outstanding results across a range of challenging projects. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction is evident in every project we undertake. Contact us today to learn how our underpinning and basement construction services can enhance the stability and value of your property.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentBasement Construction, Case Studies, Construction, Main, Underpinning
August 3, 2024

Comprehensive Groundworks and Foundation Services in London

In the construction world, the foundation of a building is paramount to its stability and longevity. At CSMANLTD, we offer a range of groundworks and foundation services in London, ensuring that every project begins on solid ground. Our expertise extends to concrete works and drainage solutions, making us a one-stop shop for all your construction needs. With a commitment to quality and precision, we ensure that every phase of your project is executed flawlessly.

Understanding Groundworks and Foundations

  1. What Are Groundworks?Groundworks involve all the preliminary work required to prepare a construction site for building. This includes clearing the site, excavating, laying foundations, and installing essential services like drainage and utilities. Effective groundworks set the stage for a successful construction project by providing a stable base for the building structure.
  2. The Importance of Foundations: The foundation is the most critical part of any building as it bears the load of the structure above. A well-constructed foundation distributes the weight evenly and ensures the stability and durability of the building. Poor foundation work can lead to structural issues, including subsidence and cracking.

Our Services at CSMANLTD –

  1. Groundworks: Our comprehensive groundworks services ensure your construction site is properly prepared for building. This includes site clearance, excavation, and grading, which are essential for creating a level base and preventing future structural problems. We use advanced machinery and techniques to handle projects of any scale efficiently.
  2. Foundation Construction: We specialise in constructing robust foundations that support various types of buildings. Our foundation services include:
  • Strip Foundations: Suitable for buildings with load-bearing walls, strip foundations involve creating continuous strips of concrete to support the structure.
  • Raft Foundations: Used for buildings on weaker soils, raft foundations spread the load across a large area, providing added stability.
  • Piled Foundations: Ideal for sites with poor soil conditions, pile foundations involve driving deep piles into the ground to support the building load.
  1. Concrete Works: Our concrete works services cover a wide range of applications, including:
  • Concrete Slabs: We pour and finish concrete slabs for floors, driveways, and pavements, ensuring durability and a smooth finish.
  • Retaining Walls: Our team constructs concrete retaining walls to provide support for soil and prevent erosion, which is crucial for sloped sites.
  • Structural Concrete: We handle all aspects of structural concrete work, ensuring that your building’s framework is strong and reliable.
  1. Drainage Solutions: Effective drainage is vital for preventing water accumulation and damage to your property. Our drainage services include:
  • Surface Water Drainage: We design and install systems to manage rainwater and prevent flooding.
  • Foul Water Drainage: Our team ensures that waste water is efficiently removed from your property, maintaining hygiene and compliance with local regulations.

Soakaways and Sumps: We construct soakaways and sumps to manage excess water on your property, reducing the risk of waterlogging and damage.

Why Choose CSMANLTD?

  1. Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the construction industry, CSMANLTD, has the expertise to handle all aspects of groundworks and foundation services. Our skilled professionals use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.
  2. Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of services, from initial site preparation to final construction. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your project are seamlessly integrated and executed efficiently.
  3. Customized Solutions: Every project is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re building a residential home or a commercial facility, we provide customised solutions that align with your requirements and budget.
  4. Commitment to Quality: At CSMANLTD, we are committed to delivering top-quality results on every project. Our attention to detail and dedication to excellence ensure that your construction project is built to last.

Conclusion

When it comes to construction in London, starting with a solid foundation is crucial. At CSMANLTD, our comprehensive groundworks, foundation, concrete works, and drainage services ensure that your project begins on the right foot. With our expertise and commitment to quality, we provide reliable and efficient solutions for all your construction needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your construction goals with precision and excellence.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentBasement Construction, Construction, Design and Build, Foundations, Piled Foundations, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Underpinning
August 3, 2024

Expert Demolition Services in London: Transforming Spaces Safely and Efficiently

When it comes to reshaping the urban landscape of London, demolition plays a crucial role. Whether it’s making way for new constructions, removing unsafe structures, or reconfiguring existing spaces, professional demolition services are essential. At CSMANLTD, we specialise in providing comprehensive demolition services for both commercial and residential projects. Our expertise ensures that each demolition project is executed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.

Understanding Demolition Services

  1. What is Demolition? Demolition involves the safe and systematic dismantling of buildings and structures. This process can range from complete demolition, where the entire structure is removed, to partial demolition, which involves removing specific parts of a building. Demolition is necessary for various reasons, including redevelopment, structural instability, or reconfiguration of spaces.
  2. Types of Demolition Services: At CSMANLTD, we offer a wide range of demolition services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients:
  • Commercial Demolition: We handle demolition projects for commercial properties, including office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, and industrial facilities. Our team ensures that the demolition is conducted efficiently, with minimal impact on surrounding areas.
  • Residential Demolition: From single-family homes to multi-story residential buildings, our residential demolition services cater to all types of housing structures. We prioritize safety and precision, ensuring that the demolition process is smooth and hassle-free.
  • Temporary Works: Temporary works involve creating temporary structures or supports during the demolition process to ensure safety and stability. This can include shoring, propping, and temporary bracing to prevent structural failures during demolition.
  • Soft Demolition: Soft demolition focuses on the removal of non-structural elements, such as interior partitions, ceilings, flooring, and fixtures. This type of demolition is often used in renovation projects where the main structure remains intact.

Why Choose CSMANLTD for Demolition Services?

  1. Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the demolition industry, CSMANLTD has a team of skilled professionals well-versed in the latest demolition techniques and adheres to the highest standards of safety and efficiency. We manage each project from start to finish, ensuring that all aspects are handled with care and precision.
  2. Comprehensive Services: Our demolition services cover every stage of the project, from initial planning to final clearance. Our offerings include:
  • Site Assessment and Planning: We conduct a thorough assessment of the site and develop a detailed demolition plan that considers all safety, environmental, and logistical factors.
  • Obtaining Permits: We handle all necessary permits and regulatory requirements, ensuring that your demolition project complies with local laws and regulations.
  • Execution and Management: Our team manages the entire demolition process, including the use of advanced equipment and techniques to ensure efficient and safe demolition.
  • Waste Management and Recycling: We prioritize sustainable practices by managing waste responsibly and recycling materials whenever possible.
  1. Safety and Compliance: Safety is our top priority at CSMANLTD. We adhere to stringent safety protocols and industry best practices to ensure the well-being of our team, clients, and the surrounding community. Our demolition projects comply with all relevant health and safety regulations, providing peace of mind to our clients.
  2. Customized Solutions: Every demolition project is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Whether you require a complete demolition or selective demolition, we provide customized solutions that align with your goals and budget.

Benefits of Professional Demolition Services

  1. Efficient Project Execution: Professional demolition services ensure that your project is completed efficiently and within the stipulated timeline. Our expertise allows us to anticipate challenges and address them proactively, minimizing delays and disruptions.
  2. Enhanced Safety: By entrusting your demolition project to professionals, you ensure that all safety measures are in place. Our team is trained to handle hazardous materials and navigate complex demolition scenarios, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
  3. Cost-Effective Solutions: Professional demolition services can save you money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring that the project is completed correctly the first time. Our efficient processes and waste management practices also contribute to cost savings.

Conclusion

At CSMANLTD, we are dedicated to providing top-tier demolition services in London, transforming spaces with precision and care. Whether you’re undertaking a commercial redevelopment, a residential renovation, or need temporary works, our team has the expertise to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services and how we can help you achieve your construction goals safely and efficiently.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentConstruction, Construction Management, Foundations, Industrial, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Super Structures, Superstructures
August 3, 2024

Enhancing Structural Integrity with Expert Underpinning Services in London

In the realm of construction, ensuring the stability and durability of a building’s foundation is paramount. At CSMANLTD, we specialise in providing comprehensive underpinning services in London, designed to reinforce and stabilise foundations for both residential and commercial properties. Our expertise in construction underpinning, box underpinning, and mini pile underpinning ensures that your structure remains safe, secure, and long-lasting.

Understanding Underpinning

  1. What is Underpinning? Underpinning is a construction technique used to strengthen and stabilize the foundation of an existing building. This process becomes necessary when the original foundation is no longer capable of supporting the structure, often due to soil subsidence, changes in soil conditions, or additional loads from building modifications.
  2. Types of Underpinning: At CSMANLTD, we offer three primary types of underpinning services:
  • Construction Underpinning: This traditional method involves excavating sections below the existing foundation and pouring concrete to extend the foundation depth and width. It’s ideal for enhancing the load-bearing capacity of the structure.
  • Box Underpinning: This technique involves creating a reinforced concrete box around the existing foundation. It provides additional support and is often used in situations where the foundation needs extensive reinforcement.
  • Mini Pile Underpinning: Mini piles are small-diameter, deep foundation elements that transfer the building load to deeper, more stable soil layers. This method is suitable for sites with limited access or where deep excavation is impractical.

Why Choose CSMANLTD for Underpinning?

  1. Expertise and Experience: CSMANLTD boasts a team of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in underpinning projects across London. Our expertise ensures that each project is executed with precision, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety.
  2. Customized Solutions: We understand that every building is unique, and so are its underpinning needs. Our team conducts a thorough assessment of your property’s foundation and provides tailored underpinning solutions that address specific issues. Whether it’s addressing subsidence, increasing load capacity, or preparing for a new construction, we have the expertise to deliver customised results.
  3. Comprehensive Services: Our underpinning services encompass every stage of the project, from initial assessment to completion. Our offerings include:
  • Site Evaluation and Assessment: We start with a detailed analysis of the site’s soil conditions, foundation status, and structural requirements.
  • Design and Planning: Our engineers design a bespoke underpinning solution that aligns with your building’s needs and complies with local regulations.
  • Construction and Implementation: We manage the entire construction process, ensuring minimal disruption to your property and timely completion of the project.
  • Quality Assurance: Rigorous quality checks are conducted throughout the project to ensure the highest standards of workmanship and safety.
  1. Advanced Techniques and Technology: At CSMANLTD, we utilise the latest techniques and technologies in underpinning to deliver superior results. Our methods are designed to minimiSe disruption to your property while ensuring optimal structural integrity.

Benefits of Underpinning

  1. Enhanced Structural Stability: Underpinning reinforces your building’s foundation, providing increased stability and reducing the risk of structural damage. This is particularly important in areas prone to soil subsidence or seismic activity.
  2. Increased Property Value: A properly underpinned building is more attractive to potential buyers and investors. It signifies a well-maintained property with a solid foundation, thereby increasing its market value.
  3. Flexibility for Future Modifications: Underpinning allows you to make future modifications or additions to your building without compromising its structural integrity. Whether you’re planning an extension or a renovation, a strong foundation provides the necessary support.

Conclusion

At CSMANLTD, we are committed to providing top-notch underpinning services in London, ensuring the safety and stability of your property. Our expertise in construction underpinning, box underpinning, and mini pile underpinning enables us to deliver customised solutions that meet your specific needs. Trust us to enhance your building’s foundation and secure its future. Contact us today to learn more about our underpinning services and how we can help reinforce your property’s structural integrity.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentBasement Construction, Construction, Construction Management, Foundations, Piled Foundations, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Underpinning
August 3, 2024

Maximizing Your Home’s Potential with Basement Construction in London

In the bustling city of London, where space is at a premium, homeowners are increasingly turning to basement construction as a solution for expanding their living areas. Whether you’re considering an under-house basement construction or transforming an existing basement, this innovative approach can significantly enhance your property’s value and functionality. At CSMANLTD, we specialise in providing top-notch basement construction services tailored to meet the unique needs of London homeowners.

Why Choose Basement Construction?

  1. Optimal Space Utilization: One of the primary reasons homeowners opt for basement construction is the efficient use of space. In a city where every square foot counts, creating a basement allows you to add substantial living space without altering the exterior footprint of your property. This is particularly beneficial in densely populated areas where expanding outwards is not an option.
  2. Increased Property Value: A well-designed basement can significantly boost your property’s market value. Potential buyers often view additional space as a valuable asset, whether it’s used for an extra bedroom, home office, gym, or entertainment area. By investing in basement construction, you’re not only enhancing your living experience but also making a smart financial decision.
  3. Customised Living Areas: Basement construction offers the flexibility to create spaces that cater specifically to your lifestyle needs. From luxurious home cinemas and wine cellars to practical utility rooms and guest suites, the possibilities are endless. Our team at CSMANLTD works closely with you to design and build a basement that perfectly aligns with your vision.

The CSMANLTD Advantage

  1. Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the industry, CSMANLTD is a trusted name in basement construction in London. Our skilled professionals are well-versed in the latest construction techniques and adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety. We handle every aspect of the project, from initial planning and design to construction and finishing touches.
  2. Comprehensive Services: At CSMANLTD, we offer a comprehensive range of services to ensure a seamless construction process. Our offerings include:
  • Initial Consultation and Planning: We begin with a thorough assessment of your property and discuss your specific requirements and preferences.
  • Design and Architecture: Our expert designers create detailed plans and architectural drawings that align with your vision and comply with local regulations.
  • Construction and Project Management: We manage the entire construction process, ensuring timely completion and minimal disruption to your daily life.
  • Finishing and Customisation: From flooring and lighting to bespoke fittings, we handle all the finishing touches to create a polished and functional space.

3. Tailored Solutions: We understand that every homeowner’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer tailored solutions that cater to your specific requirements. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy family room or a state-of-the-art home gym, we ensure that your basement construction project is customised to meet your exact needs.

Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Solutions

At CSM Ltd., we prioritise sustainability and energy efficiency in all our projects. We use high-quality, eco-friendly materials and incorporate energy-efficient systems to reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Our commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also helps you save on energy costs in the long run.

Conclusion

Basement construction is a smart and innovative way to maximise your home’s potential in London. By choosing CSMANLTD, you’re partnering with a team of experienced professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Whether you’re looking to create additional living space, increase your property’s value, or design a customised area that suits your lifestyle, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to explore the endless possibilities of basement construction and start your journey towards a more spacious and functional home.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentArchitectural Design, Basement Construction, Concrete Frames, Construction, Design and Build, Foundations, Piled Foundations, Planning Applications, Steel Frames, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Super Structures, Superstructures, Underpinning
April 19, 2024

Basement Construction London – What You Need to Know 

Basement Construction London: Adding extra living space to your home can be a great way to increase its value and make it more appealing to potential buyers. But, with space at a premium in London, it’s important to consider all of your options before you start construction. 

Many people in London choose to build basements in their homes, which are useful for a wide range of purposes. 

Underpinning basement construction 

Underpinning basement construction: In many homes today it is common to find a basement that has been designed, either during construction or at a later point by the owners, to function as a fully functional addition to the home. In some cases, the basement is used as a recreation room, while in others it may contain a bedroom or two (especially for teenagers), a bathroom, a kitchenette and one or more closets. 

The most important factor in determining whether your basement requires underpinning is a structural inspection. If you notice cracks in the foundation walls that are wider than a quarter inch, diagonal cracks, or movement of the building from its original position, then it is time to call in an expert. In most cases, underpinning will be necessary to correct faulty or unstable foundations. 

This process involves digging out sections of the existing foundations and filling them with concrete, or using piles driven into the ground to transfer load to deeper supporting soil. It is a highly specialist operation and should only be undertaken by an experienced contractor. 

Another benefit of underpinning is that it creates more headroom, making it possible to install better lighting fixtures. This in turn allows more natural light into the basement. In addition, homeowners are able to access the mechanics of their basement such as plumbing and insulation works, giving them the opportunity to repair any problems. 

Garden Basement Construction 

Creating extra space in your home can be a challenging task. But with the right basement construction contractor, your project can become a reality. Look for contractors that are reputable and have experience in the industry. You should also choose a company that offers competitive pricing. They should provide clear, detailed estimates and timelines to complete your project. Additionally, they should be willing to answer any questions you may have. 

The cost of Garden Basement Construction depends on the size and depth of the basement. To minimize costs, opt for a simple design and avoid constructing basements that will require extensive excavation work. It is also important to select the correct materials for your project. For example, choosing vinyl or laminate flooring will help you save money compared to more expensive options. 

Before beginning the construction of your basement, consult with your local council about their policies on basement extensions. The stance of each council will vary, but some will allow you to build a basement without planning permission, while others may require that you submit a full application. 

If you need to submit a full application, make sure that you follow all of the guidelines carefully. Additionally, it is essential to service a Party Wall Notice before starting construction work to ensure that your neighbours are aware of the work being carried out. 

Basement Construction London 

When it comes to basement construction in London, there are a number of things that need to be considered. For instance, you’ll want to make sure that you hire a contractor with the right experience and expertise. You’ll also want to choose a contractor that has good references and a proven track record. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured. 

One of the best ways to get a quote for your basement is to contact a specialist construction company. These companies have the knowledge and expertise to create a basement that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They can also help you make sure that your basement is in compliance with local codes and regulations. 

Another important step is to consult with a structural engineer. This expert will design the basement shell and core. They will take into account all the survey information available and your project requirements. They will also create a detailed schedule and plan for the construction process. This will ensure that your basement is built to the highest standards. 

Finally, it’s a good idea to consult with your neighbours before starting any basement excavations. This will prevent them from being surprised by diggers and jackhammers on their doorstep. It’s also a good idea to warn them that the work may cause some noise and disruption, and to explain how they can mitigate this. 

Until recently, London’s boroughs had little in the way of regulatory guidance to shape and control residential basement construction. Some had a specific policy in place, but most did not. The result was a wave of excavations. 

It was a trend that made headlines with stories of noise complaints, vibration, and even subsidence caused by retaining wall piling operations and basement excavation. But even as the stories rolled in, the excavations continued. 

There were even reports of entombed JCBs left underneath oligarch’s homes because it was too risky and expensive to lift them out (although we think there might be a metaphor in there somewhere). The media seemed to get in on the action, publishing articles like How to pull off a stunning three-storey basement extension or drooling over Gordon Ramsay’s PS7m renovation. 

But there were also plenty of people who were irked by the disruption and expense. Some complained about their ‘selfish’ neighbours who were digging down below their properties while they worked, causing them to be constantly disturbed by noise and dust. Others blamed the basement works for their own structural problems, such as a subsidence claim by one celebrity. 

But the fact is, there are ways to minimise the impact on your neighbours and still get those amazing extra rooms you want. The key is to do your homework and talk to your neighbours before you start work, as well as to understand how much the addition will add to your property in terms of additional square metres. 

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CSMAN LTD0 commentBasement Construction, Basement Construction Under Existing House London, Construction, Construction Management, Design and Build, Foundations, Piled Foundations, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Superstructures, Underpinning
August 25, 2023

Alternative segment lift for HS2’s Colne Valley Viaduct minimises local disruption

Construction of High Speed 2’s (HS2’s) 3.4km long Colne Valley Viaduct has reached a major milestone with a key 40m long span lifted into place over a local road during a three week closure of the route.

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CSMAN LTD0 commentCase Studies, Civil Engineering, Construction, Construction Management, Design and Build, Foundations, Industrial, Piled Foundations, Steel Frames, Structural Engineering, sub structures, Superstructures
August 25, 2023

Marathon’ bridge build completed on HS2

Contractors on HS2 have completed a ‘marathon’ bridge build at Streethay near Lichfield involving 18 specialist construction companies.

 

 

Work involved excavating 14,000 tonnes of earth, building a 140 metre retaining wall and moving a 2,600 tonne bridge deck 130 metres into place under the South Staffordshire freight railway.

The work was carried out during a 10 week blockade. It was completed by HS2’s civils contractor in the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI, and designers Mott MacDonald as part of a Design Joint Venture with SYSTRA (MMSDJV), together with teams from 18 specialist supply chain companies.

At the end of July, the 2,600 tonne bridge deck, which had been cast on land adjacent to the railway was moved 130 metres into position using self-propelled modular transporters.

Since then, each side of the bridge was backfilled, the rail tracks were reinstated, with the railway line was successfully handed back to Network Rail last week and now reopened.

The 25 metres long and 18 metres wide Streethay overbridge sits within HS2’s Streethay cutting and will enable HS2 trains to travel under the existing railway between Birmingham and Crewe.

Through design development, Mott MacDonald engineers were able to reduce the total length of wall structures for the railway at Streethay from 1.6 kilometres to 420 metres, meaning 80% less concrete is needed – saving around 420,000 tonnes of carbon, supporting HS2’s ambition to cut carbon on the project.

The Streethay bridge sits on top of the larger 420 metre long retaining wall structure which will have two additional bridges crossing it – the south bound A38 slip road bridge, and the Rykneld Bridge which carries the A38 north bound slip road and the A38 north and south bound carriageway.

At its peak, over 150 people worked on the complex construction operation, with teams from 18 specialist companies, delivering design, surveys, piling works, bridge build, concrete pouring, crane operations, reinforcements, modular transportation, track and systems removal and reinstatement.

The work was delivered in parallel to the construction of the nearby Fulfen Wood bridge, which involved moving a giant 6,200 tonne single span structure under the West Coast Main Line – the UK’s heaviest drive to install an intersection bridge.

David Millar, Rail Interface Manager at Balfour Beatty VINCI said: “The successful delivery of this complex and challenging piece of engineering near Lichfield is another proud moment for Balfour Beatty VINCI on the HS2 project.

“It’s only been possible thanks to the skill, dedication and support shown by the project team over the past few years, including our supply chain. Together, we’ve had to work around existing transport infrastructure, including the South Staffordshire freight railway and the A38, making this achievement even more rewarding.”

Prior to the railway blockade, retaining walls were installed on either side of the railway, enabling the areas to be excavated. The bridge deck was constructed on land adjacent to the existing railway, 130 metres from its final position.

Once the railway was closed to freight trains, the track and embankment were removed. Bachy Soletanche Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering joint venture then installed an additional 76 secant piles measuring 1.3 metres diameter and 30 metres deep, linking to the piles they installed prior to the blockade, to create two retaining walls which act as the walls for the bridge.

A concrete capping beam was installed over the retaining walls, then the bridge was moved into place using self-propelled modular transporters with 344 wheels. Concrete was poured to attach the deck to the capping beam, the embankment was back filled using 2,500 tonnes of structural backfill, on either side of the bridge, before the railway line was reinstated.

The 18 companies which delivered the project were:

J. Murphy & Sons constructed the bridge deck and the concrete elements during the blockade
Bachy Soletanche Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering JV (SB3) undertook all piling works, both before and during the blockade
The bridge parapets were made by Explore precast
Podtrak and RSS Infrastructure delivered rail systems work
Balfour Beatty VINCI delivered earthworks
Pile break-down was by Pile Breaking Systems UK Ltd
Trackway supplied by TPA
Jacking the structure and modular transportation by Mammoet UK
Survey works track monitoring by Aecom
Crane supply by King Lifting supported by BBV lifting teams
Concrete provided by CEMEX
Reinforcement by ROM – specialist reinforcement manufacturers
Temporary works by RMD
Permanent works design by Design JV (Mott Macdonald and Systra)
Temporary works design by Taylor Woodrow

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August 25, 2023

Common Household Waste Product Can Make Concrete 30 Percent Stronger

The potential here is massive and could make civil construction significantly greener.

The use of fine sand in concrete is expensive and unsustainable, but researchers in Australia have found an ingenious solution that is far greener and most of us have it in our houses.
Image credit: ungvar/Shutterstock. 

Researchers in Australia have used spent coffee grounds to make concrete 30 percent stronger. Simply by replacing a percentage of sand with waste coffee, something common to many households, it is possible to make construction more efficient and greener. 

As a household item, coffee grounds are everywhere. It is currently estimated that around 60 million tons are produced across the world each year, most of which is simply thrown away. That’s a lot of waste, and it contributes to the production of methane gas when it ends up in landfills, which contributes to the ongoing climate crisis. There is therefore a need to develop new recycling solutions that can help address the accumulation of this waste. That’s where the work of the team from RMIT University comes into play. 

“The inspiration for our work was to find an innovative way of using the large amounts of coffee waste in construction projects rather than going to landfills – to give coffee a ‘double shot’ at life,” lead author Dr Rajeev Roychand, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at RMIT, said in a statement.

Because spent coffee consists of fine particles, they were proposed as useful resources for civil and commercial applications. To test the idea, the team collected spent coffee grounds from cafes in Melbourne, Australia, and then dried them. The coffee was then heated through a process called “pyrolysis”, which involves heating organic material, such as a biomass, in the absence of oxygen. This turned the coffee grounds into biochar.

The team then designed 12 mixes to compare the effects the grounds had when made into concrete. This consisted of spent grounds that were untreated (raw), and grounds that were heated to 350°C (662°F) or 500°C (932°F), respectively. These different products were then added to Portland cement at different percentages volumes (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 percent volume) as a replacement for sand. 

The concrete is then molded and cured at room temperature for 24 hours before being demolded and cured in water tanks to be tested for its compressive strength (to see how far it can be stressed before it fractures) and performance potential. This mix was then analyzed with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). 

The results show that a mix consisting of 15 percent pyrolyzed grounds at 350°C significantly improved the structural properties of concrete – around 29.3 percent improvement in compressive strength. 

More work needs to be done to continue developing and testing this method, but it is already showing promise and gaining interest. 

“Several councils that are battling with the disposal of organic waste have shown interest in our work”, Roychand added.  

“They have already engaged us for their upcoming infrastructure projects incorporating pyrolysed forms of different organic wastes.”

A wakeup call for the construction industry

According to the joint lead author, Dr Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch, a Vice-Chancellor’s Indigenous Postdoctoral Research Fellow at RMIT, the results of this study have significant implications for the construction industry across the world. 

“Inspiration for my research, from an Indigenous perspective, involves Caring for Country, ensuring there’s a sustainable life cycle for all materials and avoiding things going into landfill to minimise the impact on the environment,” Kilmartin-Lynch explained.

“The concrete industry has the potential to contribute significantly to increasing the recycling of organic waste such as used coffee.

“Our research is in the early stages, but these exciting findings offer an innovative way to greatly reduce the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill.”

Importantly, the use of biochar in construction projects will relax pressure on the need for fine sand, which is a scares resource across the world. Sand is among the most extracted solid materials on the planet and the second most used resource after water. Moreover, the continued extraction of sand is extremely harmful to the environment.

“The ongoing extraction of natural sand around the world – typically taken from river beds and banks – to meet the rapidly growing demands of the construction industry has a big impact on the environment,” team leader Professor Jie Li explained.

“With a circular-economy approach, we could keep organic waste out of landfill and also better preserve our natural resources like sand.”

The study was published in the Journal of Cleaner Production.

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