Piling and Temporary Works: What Developers Need to Know Before Starting on Site
Temporary works are everything that supports a building or excavation during construction but is not part of the finished structure: props, needles, shoring, scaffold, hoardings and falsework. Piling, by contrast, is a permanent solution that carries the building down to firm ground.
Both are specialist subjects, and both can have a major effect on cost and programme. Here is how small developers should approach them.
When is piling needed?
Piling is used where the ground near the surface cannot support the building, for instance in made ground, soft alluvium or where deep clay is affected by trees. It can also be used when working close to neighbouring structures, where excavating trench foundations would risk disturbing adjacent ground.
There are several methods, including continuous flight auger (CFA) piles, bored piles and driven piles. The structural engineer and piling specialist select the method based on ground conditions, access and noise or vibration limits.
What temporary works involve
On conversions and refurbishments, temporary works often support floors and walls while openings are formed or structure is replaced. On new builds, they include excavation support, crane bases, and propping of floor slabs until concrete reaches strength.
Under UK practice, temporary works require a designated coordinator, design checks and formal permits to load or to strike. These controls prevent collapses, which are among the most serious risks on site.
Impact on cost and programme
Plant access: piling rigs need space, firm working platforms and delivery routes
Noise, vibration and neighbour relations in residential streets
Lead times for specialist subcontractors and design checks
Disposal of arisings, which may be contaminated
Inspection and testing regimes that must be completed before the next stage
Choosing and managing the right team
The main contractor coordinates the piling specialist, the temporary works designer and the structural engineer, and is responsible for site safety. Developers should ask who is the temporary works coordinator, how designs are checked, and how changes are controlled. Our guide to basement underpinning shows a related example of how temporary support and permanent structure interact.
Plan early to avoid redesign
Engaging a main contractor before the foundation design is fixed lets them contribute to buildability. A small change, such as altering a pile layout to suit rig access, can save weeks. For the overall sequence of work, read our new build housing schemes guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between piling and underpinning?
Piling creates deep foundations for new structures. Underpinning strengthens or deepens the foundations of an existing building.
Who designs temporary works?
A competent temporary works designer, appointed by or through the main contractor, working alongside the permanent works engineer.
Will piling disturb my neighbours?
Some methods produce noise and vibration. Method selection, working hours and monitoring can reduce the impact.
Can you coordinate piling for my scheme?
Yes. We manage specialist piling and temporary works as part of our main contractor service.
Talk to Berati Construction
Planning foundations or structural alterations on a tight site? Berati Construction Ltd has more than 30 years' experience delivering new builds, conversions and refurbishments as a single-point main contractor. Call us on 020 3488 6466 or visit beraticonstruction.co.uk to discuss your project. Our office is at 12 Cecil Road, London NW10 8UJ.
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