Mixed foundations?

If a building is built on a raft foundation, must an adjoining extension also be built on a raft?

Asked by Barry on 26th Apr 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Not necessarily as the new build extension could be a timber frame construction and it would be a much lighter option for the required foundations. that with the new technology in the construction of timber kits the foundations could be considerably lower in price and time of the project it is always a good idea to consult with your planning department and to discuss your requirements with a certified engineer
We hope that this will help you in the future construction and wish you all the best
With your projects
Yours Richard Hepburn for kingsknowe joinery and all trades"
Answered on 27th Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"Normally the engineer specifies a raft foundation because the ground is bad or high water table. If you contact building control in your area they may help"
Answered on 26th Apr 2023 - Member since Feb 2023 - report
"Yes you need a raft the weight isn't only on the brickwork timber-framed or.not there's the roof windows etc"
Answered on 19th Jun 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"Yes, normally because the ground around the building is on a raft would be the same so I would say definitely need a raft if you’re doing extension. Hope that’s helpful. Cheers Kevin"
Answered on 26th Apr 2023 - Member since Nov 2021 - report
"Yes it must . There is obviously a reason for the raft foundation on the existing building. But you could seek guidance from building inspectors/ architects first"
Answered on 26th Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"The raft foundation was the instruction of a structural engineer, possibly because of ground conditions.
This would require the input from building control who will be aware of the ground conditions in your area."
Answered on 2nd Jul 2023 - Member since Jul 2023 - report
"I am not a structural engineer however, I would say that if a raft foundation has already been used it would have been for a specific purpose due to poor ground conditions. I would assume an extension would follow a similar design but if your willing to pay alternative foundations can be considered."
Answered on 18th Jul 2023 - Member since Jul 2023 - report
"Generally ground conditions dictate there isn't a specific reason why you should or shouldn't given the build its going to support a structural engineer might take the view that its required as it follows whats already in place ,in my experiences a raft foundation is far superior to strip founds for many reasons what you spend on extra concrete you save on excavation time just the depth and the fact that's is a monolithic substructure with no ground support required."
Answered on 19th Aug 2023 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
"Yes it can also be done just watch how you do it to be honest"
Answered on 13th Aug 2023 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
"Raft foundations are a common solution for small home extensions and conservatories, and can be tackled by a competent DIYer, providing accurate measurements are used and due care is taken. Raft foundations use slabs of reinforced concrete to cover a large surface area, often the entire footprint of the extension."
Answered on 6th Jul 2023 - Member since Jul 2022 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year