Question 1

How are loads calculated?

Accepted Answer

We run a load take-down from your structural drawings (or sketch, for smaller builds) and combine that with site-specific ground data to specify screw length, diameter and pattern. The output is a stamped screw schedule per project.

Question 2

What's the working load per screw?

Accepted Answer

Typical compression capacity runs 3–20+ tonnes per screw depending on length, diameter and ground conditions. Uplift and lateral loads are calculated separately and verified by torque test on install day.

Question 3

Are they certified for building control?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every install comes with a structural certificate listing torque readings, depths and design loads, suitable to submit to building control or your insurer.

Question 4

Will they work in clay, chalk or sand?

Accepted Answer

Ground screws perform across virtually all common UK soils — heavy clay, chalk, loam, sand, silt and even gravel layers. The screw length and pattern is tuned to the ground you actually have, not a generic spec.

Question 5

What about made-up ground or fill?

Accepted Answer

Made-up ground is fine in many cases — we simply drive through it until the helical reaches competent material. If we hit obstructions like buried slabs, we'll core or relocate as needed and tell you on the day.

Question 6

Trees and roots nearby?

Accepted Answer

Ground screws are routinely specified inside root protection areas because there's no excavation. We coordinate with arborists where TPOs apply.

Question 7

Roughly how much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Small domestic foundations (garden room scale) typically land in the low-£thousands fully installed and certified, while larger commercial and solar jobs are priced per screw with volume rates. We quote fixed prices, never day rates.

Question 8

How does that compare to concrete?

Accepted Answer

On most projects we're cost-comparable to a properly engineered concrete pad once you factor in excavation, muck-away, materials and labour — and we're much faster. On difficult ground we're often significantly cheaper.

Question 9

How quickly can you start?

Accepted Answer

Survey within ~1 week of enquiry, install slots typically 2–4 weeks out for domestic work, longer for large programmes. Urgent slots can sometimes be accommodated — just ask.

Question 10

Do ground screws need planning permission?

Accepted Answer

The screws themselves don't trigger planning — your structure might. Many garden buildings sit under permitted development. We're happy to point you in the right direction but a planning consultant is the right call for borderline cases.

Question 11

Are they accepted by mortgage lenders?

Accepted Answer

For permanent habitable structures, lenders and warranty providers accept ground screw foundations where they're properly engineered and certified — which is exactly what we provide.

Question 12

Warranty?

Accepted Answer

Workmanship is backed by our install warranty, and the galvanised screws themselves carry a long material lifespan certified to BS EN ISO 1461.

Question 13

Build-up height above ground?

Accepted Answer

Standard finished level sits ~50–150 mm above grade depending on the bracket and ventilation requirement. We can set lower or higher to suit your design — just specify at quote stage.

Question 14

Can they be removed later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Screws come back out the way they went in, leaving virtually no trace. Ideal for temporary structures, exhibition stands, or end-of-life decommissioning.

Question 15

Can I add load later?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes — we can return to add screws or upgrade brackets for extensions or change of use, provided the original pattern allows for it.

Everything you
might ask us.

Engineering

Ground & site

Cost & timing

Planning & legal

After the install

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Everything youmight ask us.