New build basements have always been in demand for high-end developments, however basement extensions and conversions are becoming increasingly popular. They are an excellent way to increase space and add value to a property.
They are inherently a difficult proposition and require a structural engineer to complete the necessary investigations to ensure your plan is feasible before you spend your budget on design. Even if you already have architectural drawings there will be certain questions that will need to be answered by a structural engineer before construction can start.
With a shortage of space for development and high land values, basement construction is becoming increasingly popular as a way of gaining additional space in both homes and commercial properties.
At Munster we have extensive specialist knowledge in basement construction. Our comprehensive technical expertise ensures that all projects meet our client’s aspirations, comply with the relevant planning requirements and are delivered on time and within budget.
We play an integral part in providing solutions for day-to-day temporary works activities and a sensible approach is always provided in our design. Our knowledge of structural engineering and construction methodology has provided our clients with alternative design and construction processes. These have resulted in both cost and time savings on contracts: Shotcrete walls, integration of permanent and temporary support are some techniques used.
It is essential that the stability of a structure is maintained throughout the construction process and this is reflected in our designs. We are totally committed to creating a safe working environment on all our projects.
The majority of basement construction requires issuing a Party Wall Notices to adjoining owners. Our expert knowledge of the Party Wall Act ensures we are the first point of contact for Party Wall Surveyors in providing reliable, specialist design reviews. Munster professional and friendly approach, combined with our cost effectiveness, gives us the enviable reputation for repeat work. You will be getting the best possible value for money when you choose Munster for your basement conversion.
Munster leads with the latest technological innovations. We have invested heavily in design software to help support our engineers in providing the appropriate design outcomes. These technologies allow us to determine the loads of adjacent buildings more accurately, resulting in using lighter reinforcement.
Loose bar schedules require re bar fixers. It is much more cost effective to use special prefabricated meshes which are predominant on our drawings.
These are just a couple of examples where we drive down material costs and reduce the spending required by our clients.
The council wants to confirm that when you excavate a sizable hole that its effects have been considerable red. Quite an approach really. Different boroughs have different criteria and levels of information, but they mainly want to know:
Munster Groundwork's and Basements can help throughout your project from the planning stage to final construction: Our main role is the design and construction of basements but we have tailored our service to help with BIAs. Unlike our competition (geotechnical or environmental companies) Munster will be helping you throughout the project. It is not uncommon that the engineer at the first meeting producing the BIA will be the one undertaking the final design and then inspecting the construction. Such integration in the project's life has proved invaluable on numerous occasions.
Our BIAs are designed to help with two processes. They are not simply a tool to achieve planning. We have designed our BIA to be a useful tool in the final proposed developments. We are looking to work with and continue the project from the planning stages through, design, party wall and final construction of the basement. As structural engineers we will be integral to all of these crucial stages.We have a wealth of knowledge that allows us to undertake and complete BIAs. Making Space has written software to allow for initial Ground Movement Assessments to be undertaken without the need for specialists Geo technical Engineers..