There are many methods to forming a foundation. Benjamin Michael evaluates all possibilities and takes in to account important factors that must be considered including; soil content, gradient of the site and ease of access for our plant and machinery.
After surveying the site we liaise with our clients to produce the most cost effective ground work solution for your project.
The traditional trench is the most common method of forming a foundation. Using our own plant, machinery and the latest dual grade laser equipment, Benjamin Michael cuts hundreds of metres worth of trenches every year. We ensure that the concrete is mass poured as one and finishes level with the oversight, as opposed to a strip foundation.
Poor subsurface conditions or a high water table would mean a tradition trench would be unsuitable. In such conditions our experienced structural engineers will be called upon to produce a site plan and a detailed specification. A raft foundations would be designed consisting of reinforced steel bars and a mass filled concrete slab.
Piling is suitable for driving into difficult or uncertain ground conditions. Hard driving conditions, obstructions or boulders can also be dealt with using this system.
The steel piles are top driven via a purpose-built hydraulic rig, which hammer the pile to a length determined by the calculated load bearing and surrounding ground conditions. The internal void of the pipe can be subsequently filled with concrete or grout if required. Reinforced steel bars are then incorporated into the pile cap which tire into the ground beams similar to a raft design.
If you start excavating the floor in a barn or basement during a conversion project, chances are you will expose the existing foundation. Needless to say it will not comply with modern day building regulations.
In these situations underpinning is the only cost effective solution. Benjamin Michael uses a tried and tested method where the affected walls have sections excavated in a sequence to a designed depth below the existing foundation, reinforced iron bars are then inserted and tired together.
Each section is inspected by the relevant authorities and then backfilled with concrete. This method is carried out until all of the affected area has been underpinned.
We carry out all many types of foundation and underpinning services across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Warwickshire. Some of the areas that we have worked in include Northampton, Leicester, Hinckley, Market Harborough, Kenilworth, Nuneaton, Oakham, Melton Mowbray, Leamington Spa, Lutterworth and the surrounding areas.

Enquire Online
Miss Blackwell
"This was the first time I had employed any builders & was not sure what to expect. BMC were a pleasure to work with throughout. Although it was only a small project all my queries were dealt with in a professional, timely & unbiased way. The standard of work was excellent & the site kept very clean & tidy throughout. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone."
Mr & Mrs Hastings
"We were very happy with the building work at every stage and were impressed by the tidy and professional way of working. We also welcomed the ability to discuss any queries or concerns and these would be addressed (including changing our mind on something on the plan & was already started!) The work was always done to a high standard and no corners were cut. We would have no hesitation in recommending you to others."
Mr & Mrs Causen
“Ben and Michael were really friendly and helpful. They explained clearly everything that was involved and kept us fully informed as the build progressed. They are completely trustworthy and got along with the kids and dog. They are tidy workers and left the site each day as organized as possible. We would be happy to use their services again and would certainly recommend them to friends and family.”
Ms Reading
“If looking for reliable trustworthy sensible contractors and are working full time and need to let the builders get on with it then I’d recommend Ben, Guy and his dad. Inevitably snags happen but willingness to respond and put right without hassle was refreshing.”
Mr & Mrs Shepherd
“We found Mick & Ben easy to work with. They were always polite, kept us informed and turned up as and when they said they would. The quality of their work was high and we would certainly consider using them again.”
Mr & Mrs Bilby
“All the building work & finishing was completed to a very high standard. We would not hesitate in employing Benjamin Michael Construction in the future as they were very professional in every way & it was nice to have builders that cleaned up at the end of every day. Highly recommended.”
Mr & Mrs Young
“We were not looking forward to having the work done, but were very pleasantly surprised by how little disruption the work caused, despite the extend of the work. The contractors were very friendly, professional, hardworking and trust-worthy.
The end result is superb, and disruption during the work was as little as possible.”
Mr & Mrs Horsfall
“Having received many quotations – some through recommendations, I found BMC to be competitive & very thorough.
When the work began, and throughout the work, the necessary mess was confined to the site & never came through into the house. I was amazed how clean builders could be!!
Overall BMC’s work was excellent & I would have no hesitation in recommending their work to others”
Mr & Mrs Young
“The work (all of it) was carried out to an excellent standard. The builders were always on time or let us know otherwise. We always knew what was going on with our project at various stages. The builders were friendly yet professional”
Mr & Mrs Smith
“From the start to finish all of the work was carried out in a highly professional & friendly manner. We felt very comfortable consulting both Ben & Mick and always felt they were providing excellent, impartial advice. A potentially tough time was made easy. At times they went above & beyond, i.e. helping to provide a new kitchen”
Mr & Mrs Burrows
“Very helpful when discussing plans i.e. ideas for our extension. Would have no hesitation in recommending to friends and family. We found them very efficient and friendly”