West Sussex Groundworkers

Welcome to KST Groundworks, your premier choice for professional groundworks services in the scenic county of West Sussex. With years of experience and a dedicated team of experts, we specialise in delivering high-quality groundwork solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you require site clearance, excavation, drainage installation, or landscaping services, we have the expertise and equipment to get the job done efficiently and to the highest standards.

As a local company, we take pride in serving the West Sussex community, providing reliable and cost-effective solutions for both residential and commercial projects. Trust KST Groundworks to lay the foundation for your success, delivering exceptional results that exceed your expectations.

We undertake individual bespoke projects and have completed many successful developments for private buyers. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with high-quality work at competitive rates whilst adhering to strict programme dates.

Do you require the assistance of an experienced groundworks West Sussex team?

Then call KST on 01243 933822 for a free quotation or click on the button below to request a quote.

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Why choose KST over other groundwork contractors in Sussex?

Groundwork services we offer:

Our skilled team of groundworkers are experts in the industry and, with years of experience, can offer advice and guidance during your groundwork project.

Here are the main groundwork services we offer.

Foundations are one of the most important elements of any building project. They are incredibly important to the durability of a building, and, if not completed correctly, can affect the strength and resilience of the building. A building will not be reliable or last long without a stable foundation.

Our foundation work includes all aspects, from the important setting out stage to excavations and oversites that finish foundations off and are ready for bricklayers to start work.

Whether it is a Trench Fill, Strip Foundations, Raft or Mat Foundations, Pile Foundations or Drilled Shaft Foundations that are required, we have the skills and knowledge to construct to technical specifications. KST will ensure that the depths, diameters, and trench type comply with building regulations and adhere to any local authority planning.

Oversites are essential in making structures stable, creating a flush, solid finish between the foundations and the floor’s surface. They provide strength and protect the integrity of a building whilst creating an airtight seal that irradiates moisture penetration.

Whether it is a solid slab or a block and beam floor, our operatives have the skill and knowledge to install the oversite with the precision and attention to detail it demands. KST will undertake all aspects of setting out, excavations, and sewer works leading up to the oversites.

This is where we will form the blockwork below ground level (BGL) on top of the newly poured concrete footings. Substructure brickwork involves the construction of blockwork below ground height at the foundation level and is a vital part of stabilising a building and giving the overall structure strength.

KST Groundworks offers a bespoke drainage preparation service designed to meet any specifications. From foul water treatment to soakaways, we provide various options to remove surface and subsurface water from properties, reducing the risk of flooding, water pooling, and the subsequent damage this can cause. 

Drains and sewers are integral to managing the wastewater and surface water outputs generated by each home in Britain. They prevent the cross-contamination of foul water with rainwater and minimise the risk of flooding.

Therefore, every new home must be professionally fitted with the correct infrastructure to connect the property to the appropriate draining systems, including having separate drains for surface and wastewater.

Our groundwork team will inspect and investigate the current drainage system to ensure it meets regulations prior to any work taking place. Our groundsworks West Sussex crew will perform any repairs or relining to the drainage system as needed.

KST offer a full range of soakaway services throughout West Sussex. We offer full and comprehensive soakaway installation for domestic households and commercial businesses. Whether you need to replace an existing soakaway, need a new soakaway installed, or require our specialist advice on repairs and maintenance, we have experienced engineers that can answer any questions you may have. We will conduct an in-house calculation exercise to ensure the correct system is installed on your property.

Our foundation services include superstructure brick and blockwork as well. KST Brickwork LTD will build an extension on your current house to create your new living areas. We also make one-of-a-kind bespoke new buildings in collaboration with reputable local architects and developers. We offer a full repointing service for both modern and historic houses. We can do minor jobs like creating your garden or a boundary wall. KST Groundworks LTD will pass over all superstructure brick and block work after the groundworks are complete.

Retaining walls can be built using brick and block, wood sleepers, or reinforced concrete pours. The structure can then be encased in natural stone, feature brickwork, or manufactured stone.

Our skilled tradespeople can help design and implement structures at the forefront of retaining structure development, providing a solid grounding for soil to bear down on. Using complex designs and equations, KST ensures your retaining wall is installed strong, stable and safe for years to come.

Our excavating groundworks service consists of removing or “excavating” earth, topsoil and rock with diggers and other tools. By excavating, we can create trenches, holes, cavities, wall shafts and underground tunnelling using diggers and other machinery. During our excavating process, our West Sussex groundworkers will ensure that all materials are cleared, reused, or disposed of from the site. Excavating is also essential for exploration and environmental restoration. If you have an excavating project for which you would like a quotation, please get in touch with our groundworks West Sussex office, and one of our excavating specialists will arrange a visit.

Our groundworks West Sussex services extend to timber fencing installation around your land’s perimeter. Our team of experienced professionals are experts at fence installation and repair. No matter what type of fence you need, we can help. Whether you are looking for a new fence for your home or business or need to repair an existing fence, we can help. We also offer various other services, such as gate installation, deck building, and more.

Underpinning is strengthening a structure’s foundation, such as a home or building, by extending the current base to distribute weight load more equally across a larger area. To begin this major repair job, the earth directly beneath the foundation is dug in phases to reduce the danger of the building being undermined. Before replacing each layer with an underpinning material, and is repeated until the whole structural basis has been strengthened. This results in a secure foundation for the building or structure.

Used for superstructures, these foundations are made from steel or reinforced concrete and are driven in to the ground. They help transfer loads from weak areas, for example in water or old landfills.

Installing a septic tank is an essential wastewater management option for isolated properties or those unable to connect to the main public sewer system. The installation process can be complex and must consider factors such as geology and ground conditions. Our team of groundworkers will take care of all aspects of the installation.

Our demolition service is appropriate for anyone looking to demolish an existing building or carry out any alterations to an existing property.

If you are tearing down an existing building or any structural elements and want it removed from the site, our groundworks company can carry it out safely for you.

We meticulously prepare and risk analyse the appropriate demolition strategy, guaranteeing that we adhere to the most updated safety standards and legislation.

Our groundworks West Sussex teams can create indoor or outdoor arenas and install concrete surfaces with internal drainage, hygiene facilities, and brickwork-built stables.

KST can design and install a wide selection of high-quality surfaces, from asphalt and resin to block paving, porcelain, and decorative stone. We are the go-to firm for homeowners searching for driveways and patios in West Sussex because of our competitive prices, excellent construction, and friendly staff.

We are the number one choice for all your surfacing needs, whether you want to transform your backyard with a precisely placed gravel pathway or construct a new tarmac drive to increase the curb appeal of your property. Our team is properly insured, licenced, and accredited, and we take pleasure in providing outstanding service to our customers from start to end

Groundwork Q&A

Groundworks refer to the foundational work or infrastructure construction necessary before beginning any building or construction project. It involves preparing and levelling the site, excavating, and installing various underground utilities and systems such as drainage, water supply, sewerage, electrical wiring, and communication lines.

Groundworks typically include tasks such as:

  • Site clearance: Removing existing structures, vegetation, or debris from the construction site.
  • Excavation: Digging and levelling the ground to create a suitable foundation for the construction.
  • Foundations: Building the base or substructure that supports the weight of the building or structure.
  • Drainage: Installing systems to manage the flow of water and prevent flooding, such as pipes, drains, and sewers.
  • Utilities installation: Laying underground pipes and cables for water supply, gas, electricity, telecommunications, and other services required for the building.
  • Earthworks: Shaping the land and ensuring proper grading and compaction to provide stability and prevent erosion.
  • Retaining walls: Constructing walls or structures to hold back soil or prevent slope instability.
  • Landscaping: Creating gardens, pathways, and other outdoor features enhances the site’s aesthetics.

 

You can, but it is much easier to hire professionals. Groundworks are essential to ensure any construction project’s stability, safety, and functionality. They provide the necessary infrastructure and groundwork for subsequent construction phases, such as erecting the building’s superstructure.

There are several reasons why hiring KST as a professional groundworker may be a more suitable choice:

  • Expertise and Experience: Groundworkers have specialised knowledge and experience in excavating and preparing foundations. We understand the complexities of ensuring proper depth, dimensions, and stability.
  • Tools and Equipment: Excavating foundations requires specific tools and equipment, such as excavators, shoring systems, and compaction machinery. KST Groundworks are equipped with the tools to efficiently and safely carry out your required groundworks.
  • Safety Considerations: Excavating foundations can be physically demanding and potentially hazardous, especially if you lack experience or the appropriate safety training. KST staff are trained in proper safety procedures, including trenching and excavation safety, to minimise risks and ensure a safe working environment.
  • Time and Efficiency: KST Groundworkers are accustomed to excavating foundations and can complete the task more quickly and efficiently than someone without experience. We can accurately estimate the time required and plan accordingly, helping to keep your project on schedule.
  • Compliance with Regulations: Building regulations and local authorities often have specific requirements for foundation construction. KST Groundworks are familiar with these regulations and can ensure that the excavation work meets all necessary standards and codes.

Hiring a local groundwork company like KST Groundworks can offer several advantages. Firstly, they are familiar with the local soil conditions, building regulations, and permit processes, which can streamline the project and ensure compliance. Additionally, we have established relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and other professionals in the area, which can contribute to smoother coordination and potentially reduce costs. Lastly, supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy and community.

While hiring a groundworker involves a financial investment, it can save you money in the long run. KST will avoid costly mistakes and ensure the foundation is properly prepared, reducing the risk of future issues requiring expensive repairs.

Groundwork excavation refers to digging and excavating the ground to prepare it for construction or other related activities. It involves removing soil, rocks, and other materials from the ground to create a suitable foundation for building structures, laying utilities, or installing underground infrastructure.

Groundwork excavation is performed at the initial stages of a construction project and is essential for ensuring the built environment’s stability, safety, and proper functioning. It may involve site clearance, levelling the ground, trenching, and soil removal.

A substructure refers to the underlying structure or foundation of a building or infrastructure constructed below ground level. It forms the base upon which the rest of the structure is built.

The substructure is typically responsible for supporting the loads imposed by the superstructure (above-ground portion) and transferring them to the ground safely and stably. It is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the entire construction. 

Groundworks are crucial for ensuring any construction project’s stability, durability, and functionality. They provide a solid foundation on which the entire structure is built, helping to prevent settlement, water damage, and other potential issues. Properly executed groundworks are essential for a project’s long-term success and structural integrity.

Groundworks require various specialised equipment and machinery depending on the nature of the project. Commonly used equipment includes excavators, diggers, dumpers, concrete mixers, compactors, and multiple tools for levelling, grading, and compaction. KST continuously invests in modern equipment to ensure efficient and precise execution of the tasks involved.

Excavation moves earth, rock and other natural materials using plant machinery. Earthwork is just another term for excavation, including tunnelling and trenching.

This is part of the structure underneath the ground, whereas a superstructure is a structure above the ground.

It is essential because it creates the base structure of the building and also helps to provide strength to hold the load. If a groundworker has not investigated a surface or it has not been excavated correctly, this could cause significant issues further on in a project, which could cause delays or even worse. Using an experienced groundworks company like ours will ensure that your project is built on solid foundations, to begin with.

Groundwork excavating prepares the ground for construction projects such as building foundations, roads, pipelines, or drainage systems. It may also involve grading and levelling the terrain, removing tree stumps or vegetation, or creating trenches for utilities like water, gas, or electrical lines.

During excavation, safety measures and precautions are essential to protect workers and prevent damage to surrounding structures or utilities. Excavating contractors often have expertise in using specialised equipment and techniques to ensure efficient and precise excavation.

In addition to excavation, groundworks may include other related tasks such as site clearance, earthmoving, compaction, and backfilling. These activities are crucial for establishing a solid and stable foundation for any construction project and ensuring proper drainage and utility installation.

The most common excavation is the removal of topsoil.

The 3 main kinds of excavation are called:

  • Cut and fill: This strips layers from the earth.
  • Muck: This method removes mud, water, and dirt.
  • Drainage: This type diverts water by creating trenches or canals.

Hand excavation is hard work using a shovel. However, hand excavation during the planning process is called potholing, where a geotechnical team assesses the subsurface’s conditions within a pit.

This is what supports the superstructure of a building and transfers the load straight to the earth.

Foundations are structural elements that support and stabilise buildings and other structures. There are several types of foundations commonly used in construction. 

  • Strip Footing: This is the most common type of foundation used for residential and small commercial buildings. It consists of a continuous strip of concrete or masonry that supports the load of the walls above.
  • Trench Fill Foundations: Involves excavating a trench along the line of the walls and filling it with concrete. This type of foundation is used when the soil has good load-bearing capacity and is not necessary to level the ground.
  • Pad Foundations: Also known as isolated footings, pad foundations are individual concrete pads that support the load of a single column or point load. They are used for smaller structures or where the loads are concentrated at specific points.
  • Raft or Mat Foundation: This type of foundation spreads the load of the building over a large area. It is suitable for buildings on weak or unstable soils and is often used for high-rise structures and industrial buildings.
  • Pile Foundation: Pile foundations are deep foundations that transfer the structure’s load to deeper, more stable soil layers. They consist of long, slender columns (piles) made of concrete, steel, or timber driven into the ground.

The primary foundation types are as follows:

  • Shallow foundation.
  • Individual footings.
  • Combined footings.
  • Strip footings.
  • Raft or mat foundations.
  • Deep foundations.

The typical foundation depth for a building can vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of the structure, the soil conditions at the construction site, and local building codes and regulations. However, some general guidelines and common practices can give you an idea of typical foundation depths.

Poured concrete is known as the best type of foundation.

Poured concrete is the strongest foundation because it is exceptionally hardy and can be moulded into any shape required.

Again poured concrete is ideal for heavy structures due to its sheer strength and durability.

Damage could occur to the building if the foundations are not deep enough, the ground below could freeze, and frozen ground can expand and move the building and cause subsidence. An assessment of the damage will have to take place, and underpinning could be an option to resolve this problem.

A footing is the lower base part of a foundation, which distributes the weight of a structure evenly to stop it from sinking into the ground.

The four main types of footing are:
• Individual.
• Combined.
• Strip.
• Raft or mat.

The bottom of a trench would typically be 1200mm of FFL (finished floor level) at 600mm wide with a 600mm depth of concrete. This is the minimum for regulations.

If footings are not deep enough, they may move or heave, so it is recommended that they be poured below the frost line.

Footings are made from solid concrete at the base of a structure and help distribute the weight of a building to prevent it from sinking into the ground.

It is recommended that the top 6-12 inches beneath the footings be gravel or crushed rock. Having a solid base will help prevent the concrete from cracking or moving.

The weak ground will not adequately support a structure’s weight, which could cause subsidence. This will have to be fixed immediately to prevent the risk of further damage or potential hazards, and this is where underpinning of the foundations is required.

A footing is part of a foundation that is in contact with the ground and is the structure that transfers the load from the superstructure to the ground; it also supports the entire building. Whereas a foundation is a component of a building that transfers its structural loads to the earth from the superstructure

Groundworks FAQ:

Our Sussex groundwork team work closely alongside, homeowners, developers, architects, and engineers.

Preparation of the ground refers to work being completed to prepare the sub surfaces before landscaping and construction works begin. This is generally the first stage for groundworkers on any building project.

We are based in Bognor Regis but offer our groundwork services to clients in Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire.

We can usually arrange for one of our groundworks West Sussex specialists to visit your site the next day. When we arrive, we will discuss with you your requirements and inspect the area.

Our groundworks West Sussex estimator likes to get a feel for the environment our team will be working in. They will check access, to ensure all machinery, diggers, delivery lorries and aggregate/concrete lorries can access the area with ease. They will also analyse the groundworks location and take time to view the surroundings. Measurements and images may be taken for our records to help us with our quotation process.

We ask all our Sussex groundwork customers to provide us with copies of all plans, scope of works and any extra information you may have about the project. We also ask that you are at the correct stage of your project before you contact us for a visit as we like to check that planning permission, party wall agreements etc are all in place.

We aim to respond to all Sussex based groundwork enquires within 24 hours of a site visit unless we state otherwise.

Once you are happy with our groundwork quotation, we can arrange to get you booked in for your works within 28 working days.

Our teams of Sussex groundworkers are qualified and trained with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the trade. Our plant operatives come with heavy machinery tickets. All members of staff are fully health and safety trained to the latest regulations.

Yes, all projects are supplied with specific risk assessments and method statements. Our groundwork RAM’s are reviewed on a quarterly basis and are updated when needed before we start any new project.

KST Groundworks Sussex

Would you like to arrange a site visit?

If you are looking for trusted groundworkers and would like more information regarding our driveways, landscaping, or other groundworks in West Sussex, or to book a site survey to obtain a free quotation for your construction works, then please get in touch with us. You can contact us via our website form, email, or even give us a call.